22 Best Dorm Room Essentials For Girls To Pack This Year

As you prepare to start your collegiate journey, one of the most daunting tasks is packing up for dorm life. The thought of condensing your belongings into a tiny space, getting to know your roommate, and creating a cozy atmosphere can be overwhelming. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll guide you through the essential items you need to make your college dorm room feel like home.

What Should You Bring to Your Dorm Room?

As we’ve explored the world of stylish college attire in previous posts, it’s time to focus on the essentials that will make your dorm room feel like home. While it can be difficult to predict exactly how much space you’ll need, a good rule of thumb is to consider what can fit comfortably within a minivan – if it doesn’t fit, chances are you’re bringing too much. As you pack up your belongings, ask yourself if each item is truly necessary.

You might not have as much time for leisure reading as you’d like, so leave those high school textbooks at home. Instead, bring one or two favorite stuffed animals to provide a sense of comfort during breaks. Remember that colleges typically provide the basics – desks, beds, dressers, and more – leaving it up to you to fill in the gaps with your own unique touches.

Below, we’ll outline our top picks for must-haves to bring when moving into college, serving as your ultimate packing guide for girls.

How to make moving into college easier? (College move-in day tips)

As you prepare to settle into your college dorm, it’s essential to be prepared for the move-in day. Despite your best efforts, it can still be a challenging experience. To make the process smoother, follow these tips: First, ensure you have all the necessary personal information available, including your ID card and emergency contact details, to receive your keys and credentials without any hiccups.

When packing, prioritize organization over speed – don’t just throw everything into boxes, as this will only lead to a cluttered dorm room. Arrive at your designated move-in time with a few minutes to spare to account for any unexpected delays. Additionally, consider arriving a bit earlier than your roommate to get settled in before they arrive and claim their space.

Finally, keep items that you don’t need immediately separate from the rest of your belongings – it’s often easier to order larger or heavier items once you’re settled into your new home rather than trying to fit them into your car during the move-in process.

1 – Wall Art

1 – Wall Art
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Transforming a confined space into an inviting oasis is crucial for keeping negative energies at bay. One effective way to achieve this is by adorning your walls with thoughtfully curated art pieces. Whether you opt for vibrant posters or statement-making typography, the key lies in selecting bohemian-inspired college dormitory ideas that reflect your unique style.

To elevate your bedroom’s ambiance, consider combining a reclaimed wood bed frame with eclectic picture frames and eye-catching 3D posters. You can even create your own dorm room wall art on a budget of under $50! For inspiration, take a look at these affordable options: a $22.99 Audrey Hepburn quote art piece, a $15.99 hanging display wall decor, or a thought-provoking $20.99 peace hands art print.

2 – Soft Dorm Rugs

2 – Soft Dorm Rugs
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When the clock strikes late at night and you’re lounging on your cold concrete floor, it’s easy to get chilly toes. One simple solution is to place an inexpensive sisal rug or carpet remnant on the ground. Alternatively, you can repurpose your yoga mat as a makeshift rug even when you’re not in downward dog pose. If you have frequent cleaning sessions on the horizon, consider opting for a darker-colored covering that will hide any dirt and stains.

3 – Comfy Chair

3 – Comfy Chair
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For college students, the comfort of their dorm room seating can be a major concern. Unfortunately, many dorm rooms lack a comfortable chair or, if they do have one, it’s often bulky, old, and uncomfortable to sit in. However, finding the perfect college chair can make all the difference. It can provide a welcoming space for relaxation, studying, or socializing with friends. One great option is the Urban Soft Folding Chair, which offers exceptional comfort and practicality.

Whether you plan to spend hours reading, working on assignments, or just hanging out with friends, this chair’s softness and foldable design make it an ideal choice.

4 – Fairy Lights

4 – Fairy Lights
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While fairy lights may not be an absolute necessity, their versatility and charm make them a valuable addition to any college setting. With multiple styles and colors to choose from, you’ll find numerous opportunities to utilize them throughout your academic journey. Use them to enhance the ambiance of your dorm room, celebrate special moments with friends, or add a touch of whimsy to campus events.

Fairy lights have a way of creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere that can instantly elevate any space. My personal favorite type is the photo clip string light, which adds a fresh and unique element to any wall.

5 – Blinds or Curtains

5 – Blinds or Curtains
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While often overlooked, curtains can greatly impact the ambiance of a room. Standard blinds provide essential functions like privacy and sunlight blocking, but they don’t always add to the aesthetic appeal or overall comfort. A well-chosen curtain can help regulate temperature, lighting, and privacy in a space, much like it does for dorm residents who rely on them for a good night’s sleep.

6 – Desk Lamps

6 – Desk Lamps
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Envision a college life without a desk lamp – imperfect! This essential item provides the perfect solution for late-night studying, allowing you to take notes and focus without disturbing your roommate or lighting up the entire room. The sleek, modern design of this lamp also boasts practical features such as a phone charging port and dimming switch, making it a must-have for any student’s study routine.

7 – Sheets & Comforters

7 – Sheets & Comforters
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When it comes to setting up your dorm room, you want a bedding set that’s not only comfortable but also durable and affordable in the long run. While splurging on high-quality sheets and comforters might seem like a luxury, buying cheap alternatives that need to be replaced frequently can actually break the bank. That’s why investing in a 100% cotton bedding pack is a great idea. Look for sets that are garment-washed for added softness and durability.

With over 30 color combinations to choose from, you’re sure to find a style that suits your dorm room decor. Plus, with each wash making the fabric even softer, you can enjoy the comfort of your new bedding for months to come.

8 – Mattress Toppers

8 – Mattress Toppers
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When it comes to finding a comfortable mattress in a dorm room, it’s often a challenge. You’ll likely spend most of your time in bed, whether you’re sleeping, studying, or binge-watching your favorite shows on Netflix. As such, it’s crucial that your mattress is just as comfortable as the one at home. Fortunately, this hypoallergenic quilted mattress topper can help bridge the gap between dorm room comfort and home comfort.

Not only does it allow you to regulate your body temperature in both summer and winter by controlling moisture levels, but it also provides an extra layer of cushioning and eliminates any lingering odors from old college mattresses. And at just $20, this affordable solution is a no-brainer for any student looking to upgrade their dorm room sleeping experience.

9 – Your Favorite Pillow

9 – Your Favorite Pillow
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As college students, we all know how crucial a good night’s sleep is after a long day of studying and working. A comfortable and relaxing sleeping environment can make all the difference in helping you recharge for the next day. Bedding basics are essential for creating a cozy and rejuvenating space in your dorm room. One simple yet effective way to enhance your sleeping experience is by investing in a memory foam pillow.

Not only will it provide better support and comfort for your neck and head, but its breathable and cooling features will also keep you cool while you sleep. For an added layer of familiarity and comfort, consider bringing a familiar pillow from home with you to create a sense of continuity. While it may be tempting to upgrade to a new pillow, the Coop Home Goods Memory Foam Pillow is a great option to consider, offering top-notch quality at a reasonable price point of $83.99.

10 – Luxury Duet Covers & Fuzzy Blankets

10 – Luxury Duet Covers & Fuzzy Blankets

When it comes to college dorm bedding, a duvet cover is a game-changer, regardless of whether you have a down comforter or not. Even the most cozy sets can leave your dorm room feeling chilly, which is where an extra layer comes in handy. A plush throw blanket, for instance, can provide the perfect balance between warmth and breathability, allowing you to stay snug while studying or socializing with friends without overheating.

Plus, it adds a pop of color to your otherwise plain bedspread, making your dorm room feel more like home.

11 – Bedside Shelf

11 – Bedside Shelf
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For students and individuals with loft beds or high ceilings, a bedside shelf can be a game-changer. Instead of relying on a nightstand that’s out of reach, this bunk bedside shelf offers a convenient spot to place your phone, accessories, and other essentials within arm’s length. Perfect for college dorms or any space where a little extra storage is needed, this compact shelving solution ensures you can keep your belongings organized and within sight.

12 – Desk Organizer

12 – Desk Organizer
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The environment plays a crucial role in determining one’s productivity. A cluttered workspace can be a significant hindrance to getting things done efficiently. As someone who spends a considerable amount of time at their desk, I believe it’s essential to maintain an organized space that allows for seamless workflow. This is where a desk organizer comes into play, providing a convenient way to keep essential items within arm’s reach without cluttering the workspace.

The WAVEYU Marble Desk Organizer, in particular, offers a practical solution for keeping supplies tidy and accessible, boasting a charming marble pattern as an added bonus. With its affordability at $13.99, it’s an excellent investment for anyone seeking to boost their productivity.

13 – Coffee Station

13 – Coffee Station
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As students rely heavily on coffee to stay energized, it’s no surprise that having a reliable brewing system in the dorm kitchen is a must-have. For those looking for a convenient and compact solution, a pod-based or French press brewer can be an excellent choice. The De’Longhi VertuoPlus Single Serve Coffee Maker stands out as a top contender, offering a range of beverage options from coffee to tea, hot cocoa, specialty drinks, and even iced concoctions.

Its portable design makes it perfect for small spaces, ensuring that students can enjoy their favorite brews whenever the need arises.

14 – Power Strip + Extension Cord

14 – Power Strip + Extension Cord
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In today’s digital age, it’s essential for students to have reliable access to power sources, especially in dorm rooms where outlets can be scarce. A versatile power strip with surge protection is a must-have for keeping devices charged and protected from damage. This GE 3-Outlet Power Strip+Extension Cord offers an efficient solution, allowing users to plug in multiple devices at once.

With its compact design and extension cord feature, it’s easy to place behind a bed or desk, providing ample power options. Whether you’re a student looking for a convenient way to keep your gadgets charged or simply seeking a practical addition to your dorm room setup, this power strip is an affordable and effective solution.

15 – Daily Planner

15 – Daily Planner
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College students’ schedules can be overwhelming with classes, extracurriculars, internships, and jobs all vying for attention. To stay on top of it all, many rely on digital tools like Google Calendar, but research suggests that handwritten notes and reminders may have a greater impact on memory retention. For those who prefer the tactile approach, planners can be an effective way to organize daily tasks and appointments.

Ultimately, every college student should consider this approach as part of their productivity arsenal.

16 – Jewelry Organizer

16 – Jewelry Organizer
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Fashionable flair can be achieved even in a dorm room setting. While it may not be as glamorous as a runway, accessorizing with your favorite jewelry is still possible. However, the reality of living in a small space means that finding and organizing your belongings quickly becomes a challenge. Imagine spending precious morning time digging through a cluttered dresser for a missing pair of earrings or dealing with tangled necklaces – it’s a scenario many of us can relate to.

Fortunately, there is a simple solution: a jewelry organizer. These versatile storage solutions come equipped with various compartments, hooks, and pouches designed to accommodate any style of necklace, bracelet, anklet, or earrings. By keeping your accessories tidy and organized, you’ll save time and reduce stress in the morning. If you’re looking for a reliable option, consider the Umbra Trigem Hanging Jewelry Organizer ($20) or HerFav Acrylic Jewelry Organizer Box ($24.99).

17 – Makeup Storage Drawer

17 – Makeup Storage Drawer
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While compact spaces often present a beauty routine conundrum, there are ways to maintain efficiency without sacrificing functionality. This clever makeup storage solution boasts ample visibility in tight spaces, making it an ideal choice for morning routines. With its trays and drawers, you can categorize your foundation, bronzers, blushes, and eye shadows with ease, streamlining your process and keeping your most-used products front and center.

18 – Under-Bed Storage

18 – Under-Bed Storage
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Before moving into a dorm room, it’s crucial to stock up on storage containers that make the most of limited space. Among the essentials is a reliable under-bed storage solution for keeping out-of-season clothing, extra linens, and spare bedding organized. Cotton-based storage bags with breathable fabrics stand out as an excellent choice for this purpose. Not only do they provide ample room for storing textiles, but they also help maintain their freshness by preventing moisture buildup.

By incorporating such a system into your dorm setup, you’ll be able to keep your belongings tidy and within reach.

19 – Tier-Cloth Hanging Shelf

19 – Tier-Cloth Hanging Shelf
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When it comes to maximizing storage space in your dorm room, don’t overlook the humble closet rod. By installing a cloth shelf system, you can create a convenient and accessible spot to store clothing, shoes, luggage, and more on the floor. And with options like the Hanging Shoe Organizer For Closet ($35.99), DonYeco Hanging Closet Organizer ($18.99), or Acrylic Shelf Dividers for Shelves ($30.99), you’re sure to find a solution that fits your style and budget.

20 – Mini-Fridge

20 – Mini-Fridge
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A mini-fridge is not just a nice-to-have appliance in college dorms, it’s an absolute necessity. Without one, you’ll struggle to keep your snacks and meals fresh and cold, leading to a constant battle with hunger pangs. While colleges usually provide guidelines for purchasing refrigerators and microwaves upfront, the compact nature of this space-saving mini-fridge makes it an attractive option that can easily fit into even the smallest of dorm rooms.

21 – Photo Frame with Your Favorite Photos

21 – Photo Frame with Your Favorite Photos
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To preserve cherished moments with loved ones, consider capturing snapshots of special occasions and inserting them into elegant picture frames for a personalized display. The simplicity of this approach allows you to focus on the joy of sharing memories rather than the complexity of elaborate presentation.

22 – Laundry Basket

22 – Laundry Basket
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When it comes to selecting a laundry basket for your dorm room, you have a range of options to consider. From compact under-the-bed baskets to sturdy plastic ones and classic wicker designs, there’s something to suit every taste and space constraint. To make the best choice, take some time to browse through different styles and sizes in-store or online before making a decision that meets your specific needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What clothes to bring to college?

When packing for college, it’s wise to adopt a ‘buy what you need’ approach and stock up on essentials that will last at least a season or two. Consider bringing back home items that won’t be practical in your new environment, such as winter coats or boots, and swap them out when the seasons change. Don’t forget to pack formal attire for job fairs, networking events, and interviews – you never know when an opportunity might arise.

Additionally, if you plan on working out regularly or using a gym, make sure to bring your workout gear along with you. And if you’re looking for inspiration for your college wardrobe, our post on ‘College Girls Outfits’ has plenty of great ideas to get you started.

Q. What does a girl need for her dorm room?

As you prepare for your initial departure from home as a college student, there are certain essentials you should include in your luggage to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Among the crucial items to pack are a spare set of sheets to easily freshen up your dorm room space, a large microwaveable bowl perfect for reheating meals or snacks, noise-reducing headphones to block out any distracting sounds, and a table lamp that will provide ample light for studying or relaxing.

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