Essential Items for College Packing: What You Might Have Missed

As a first-year college student, packing for college can be a daunting task. You want to make sure you have everything you need to survive on your own for the first time, but it’s easy to overlook some essential items. After my own experience of moving into my dorm and realizing all the things I had forgotten, I compiled a list of items that I believe every college student should have in their travel basket when heading back to campus from home.

First on the list is cold medicine. I learned the hard way that the infamous “frat flu” is no joke, and having some cold medicine on hand can be a lifesaver when you inevitably come down with a bug. Stock up on some medicine at home to save yourself time and money when you’re feeling under the weather.

Next, make sure to pack extra deodorant. The Virginia heat can be brutal, and having a backup deodorant in your backpack can save you from some embarrassing situations on hot and sweaty days.

Another essential item is a pair of “frat shoes.” Investing in a pair of shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty at parties can save your favorite sneakers from getting ruined. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later.

A phone wallet is also a must-have for nights out. Keeping your IDs and credit cards attached to your phone can prevent you from losing them during a night out on the town.

If you’re like me and can’t braid your own hair, having a friend who knows how to braid can be a game-changer. French braids are a great hairstyle for hot weather, and having a designated hair-braiding friend can save you time and stress when getting ready for class.

An air mattress is a great investment for overnight guests in your dorm. Whether it’s a friend visiting for the weekend or a sibling wanting to experience dorm life, having an air mattress on hand can make their stay more comfortable.

Tech to support your learning style is also important. Investing in an iPad for digital note-taking can help you stay organized and retain information better in class.

Don’t forget to pack some business casual clothes for unexpected events or meetings. You never know when you might need to dress up, so having a few versatile pieces in your wardrobe can save you from last-minute shopping trips.

Shower storage is a game-changer for suite-style dorms. With over-the-door hooks and suction cup shelving, you can keep your shower essentials organized and easily accessible.

Lastly, make sure you have something – or someone – to kill bugs. You never know what creepy crawlies might find their way into your dorm, so having bug spray on hand can save you from some unpleasant encounters.

Overall, packing for college is a learning experience, and it’s okay to forget a few things along the way. But with these essential items in your travel basket, you’ll be better prepared for whatever college life throws your way. Happy packing!