The Ultimate College Packing List for Girls

1. Mattress Protector

Many, many students have slept on your dorm’s mattress before you, so a mattress protector is non-negotiable. This one protects against allergens and dust and won’t change the feel of your bed.

2. Mattress Topper

Standard dorm mattresses are uncomfortable AF, so a Twin XL mattress topper is a must-have. This one has 4 inches of memory foam and will make you feel like you’re at a 5-star hotel!

3. Two Twin XL Sheet Sets

Get two sets of Twin XL sheets so you’ll always have clean ones, even when you put off doing laundry. These microfiber sheets are insanely soft and have more than 200,000 positive reviews.

4. Comforter or Duvet

There are so many cute duvets and comforters at stores like Dormify, PBTeen, and Urban Outfitters. This eyelash comforter and sham set from Dormify is our fave to match any decor.

5. Pillows

Good pillows are key to making a dorm bed feel 10x more comfortable. This set of 2 cooling gel pillows is a favorite here at CF, and you can bring them with you to your first apartment.

6. Pillowcases

If you don’t have satin pillowcases yet, do yourself a favor and invest ASAP. They are the best for helping you wake up with perfect hair every day. This set is less than $10 and will change your life.

7. Throws or Extra Blankets

You need at least one throw blanket for guests (or if your room gets chilly). This one is a dupe for the popular Barefoot Dreams blankets at a fraction of the price.

8. Decorative Pillows

Every girl knows you can’t have too many decorative pillows. Get some cute ones that show off your personality, like this heart-shaped pillow.

9. Air Mattress/Sleeping Bag

A must if you plan to have guests visit. I like this air mattress because it has a built-in pump, and it’s raised up off the ground, so your guest will feel like they’re sleeping on a real bed.

10. Bed Risers

Optional but really nice to have, bed risers double your storage space in your room. For more convenience, get these 7″ risers — they come with a built-in plug for charging your devices in bed.

11. Dorm Bed Shelf

Another “nice to have” item that makes life easier! The BedShelfie is a genius product. It has space to hold your laptop, phone, keys, and water bottle next to your bed, plus it’s totally customizable.

12. Headboard

If you want to make your bed extra adorable, we’re loving these detachable headboards you can add to any dorm bed for a luxe look. Definitely not a must-have but so cute! Plus, it has ports to charge your devices.

13. Blackout Curtains (+ Rod)

Your school may provide blinds or curtains, but I recommend full blackout curtains for the best sleep. I love these ones because they look like high-end linen curtains.

And don’t forget a curtain rod! This one doesn’t require any tools and won’t damage walls.

14. Wall Decor

Obviously, you need decorations for your walls, and we love this coastal seashell print that will remind you of beach days.

There are so many ways you can go with wall decor, though. See our full guide to college dorm room wall art ideas for tons of aesthetic options.

15. Plants

Every living space needs some greenery — whether it’s real or faux is up to you. This plant is a real one that’s difficult to kill, but Amazon has a great fake plant selection too.

For more options, see our guide to the best dorm plants.

16. String Lights

String lights are pretty much essential; they add such a cozy ambiance to your room! I particularly love these string lights with photo clips — instant wall decor.

For more ideas, see our list of ways to use Christmas lights in your room.

17. Desk Lamp

In college, you need your own desk lamp so you can study at night without disturbing your roommate. This one is so sleek and modern, plus it has a charging port for your phone and a dimmer. It’s everything you could need in a desk lamp.

18. Printed Photos from Home

Everyone gets homesick at some point in their college career, and it really helps to have physical photos of your loved ones where you can see them every day. Print your own with this photo printer that syncs to your phone.

19. Area Rug

Dorm floors are usually tiled (and cold!), so you absolutely need a good area rug to keep your room nice and cozy.

I love this 8 x 10 one because it has a vintage vibe to it, plus it has black in the pattern so dirt won’t be super noticeable. It looks 10x more expensive than it is!

20. Tapestry

Tapestries are optional, but they are a popular way to add a big statement piece to your room (and cover up ugly dorm walls).

There are so many options for dorm tapestries (seriously, you can get one that’s Mojo Dojo Casa House-themed), but I love this one for its California minimalist vibes.

21. Hangers

Trust me on this: For aesthetic and organizational reasons, it’s better to invest in a new set of matching hangers rather than dragging your old, mismatched hangers to college.

These velvet hangers grip clothes so they don’t fall on the floor, and they’re thin, so you can fit twice the amount of clothes in your closet. Plus, how cute is the rose gold finish?

22. Sweater Organizer

Drawer space is limited or nonexistent in many dorm rooms, so you will want to invest in a sweater organizer for storing folded clothes in your closet.

This one comes with six shelves so that you can fit tons of clothes on it, and it can be hung on any closet rod. I actually prefer these to drawers because it lets me see what I have at a glance.

23. Command Hooks

A college classic. You will use these all over your dorm room, so buy a couple of big packs and thank me later.

The uses for these are endless, from hanging your blow dryers and curling irons to organizing your hats, necklaces, and purses. I also like to make a designated hook for my bathrobe inside my closet.

24. A Full-Length Mirror

Your dorm might come with one of these (mine did sophomore year but not freshman year), so try and find out ahead of time before you buy one.

I prefer over-the-door mirrors like this one because they’re foolproof to hang, but you can also get a leaning mirror if you like to take outfit pics.

25. Clear Storage Bins

Another essential on any college packing list. These clear storage bins are very popular because they’re lightweight and allow you to see what’s inside.

I especially like these stacking drawers — they’re perfect for closets or stacking under your (lofted) bed.

26. Shoe Rack or Organizer

I loved having a shoe rack right by my door — it made it super easy for me to grab my shoes and go every morning.

However, if you have a lot of shoes or you have a dorm closet with a door (check first), an over-the-door shoe organizer is another popular option.

27. Jewelry Organizer

Optional (see the makeup organizer at right that has space for jewelry), but if you have a lot of jewelry, it helps to get a specific jewelry organizer.

This jewelry stand is SO cute. It has room for all of your necklaces, bracelets, and rings, and it will look great in your room.

28. Makeup Organizer

If you wear makeup regularly (or just want to organize your skincare products), these clear makeup organizers are so helpful!

This one has space for all your must-used products and even has extra drawers where you can keep jewelry (if you don’t want to get a jewelry organizer).

29. Makeup Bag

If you wear makeup, this one is a must because a lot of times in college, you will be getting ready in someone else’s room.

I have this large cream makeup bag, and I’m obsessed. It keeps everything organized, it’s sturdy, and it’s big — it can fit my entire makeup collection plus some skincare.

30. Makeup Mirror

Never trust dim dorm lighting when doing your makeup! Get yourself a light-up makeup mirror so you can actually see what you look like before you go outside.

Bonus, this thing magnifies up to 3x, so it’s A+ for doing your brows and any detailed eye makeup looks.

31. Desk Organizer

A dorm desk organizer is a must if you’re like me and you NEED your desk to be clean before you can study. This wire organizer is affordable, cute, and comes in 5 colors.

If you want to get extra organized, these clear drawer dividers will keep all of your school supplies perfectly grouped together.

32. Shower Caddy

No college packing list would be complete without a shower caddy!

This mesh one is THE one to get because the material allows water to drain out and it dries super fast. Plus, it has tons of pockets and even has a special clip for your keys — so handy.

33. Disinfectant Wipes

Self-explanatory. I’m partial to the Scentiva wipes because they literally smell like a vacation.

34. Trash Bags

Again, this one is obvious. Get the Tall Kitchen size, which will fit most dorm trash cans.

35. Compost Bags

My school provided us with compost bins, but not all schools do, so these are great if your school has a composting program.

36. Dish Soap

Mrs. Meyer’s dish soap is my all-time favorite, and their peony scent smells so luxurious!

37. Dish Sponges

Okay, these look funny, but they are the BEST for cleaning even the most stuck-on food off your dishes. Try them — you’ll be a convert!

38. All-Purpose Cleaner

I use this for my desk, my shelves, and even my mirrors and windows because it doesn’t streak. The Peony Mrs. Meyers is the best scent ever!

39. Lightweight Vacuum

I didn’t get one of these freshman year, and I wish I had. Sophomore year I upgraded, and my room was so much cleaner all the time!

40. Dustpan Set

A simple dustpan and broom set is so helpful for cleaning up small messes around the dorm.

41. Paper Towels

I like to buy the big packs of paper towels on Amazon and have them auto-delivered.

42. Trash Can

Most schools provide this for students, so check before you buy.

43. Towels

You definitely need a set of towels for college. These are the exact towels I have in my house today, and they are INCREDIBLE for the price!

44. Bathrobe

I loved having a robe for walking from the showers to your room. I have this cozy robe from Amazon, and I practically live in it now; it’s the comfiest robe ever.

45. Shower Cap

For when you need to shower but you’re not trying to spend an hour drying and re-styling your hair, a shower cap is a must.

46. Shampoo

Obviously, you need shampoo. Redken All Soft is my OG favorite since I have dry hair. It works so well and smells even better.

47. Conditioner

I rotate my conditioners a lot, but I always come back to All Soft. My other favorites are Redken Extreme and Olaplex No. 5.

48. Dry Shampoo

Forever a college girl essential — where would we be without dry shampoo? Batiste works great and is super cheap.

49. Other Hair Products

Include all of your daily and weekly hair products here — hairspray, hair masks, and a good heat protectant are musts for me.

50. Hair Brush

Another obvious must-have — a good hair brush will last you forever, and I love that this one is vegan and eco-friendly.

51. Comb

When I was in the dorms, I always kept a detangling comb in my shower caddy to comb through my conditioner while I was in the shower.

52. Razor

Bring your favorite razor and extra blades. The Billie razor kit is popular and they ship new blades to you automatically so you won’t run out.

53. Loofahs

Buy a big pack of loofahs and swap them out every three months. These ones are only $7 for four.

54. Body Lotion

Bring your favorite. The Tree Hut Tropic Glow Body Butter is a dupe for everyone’s fave Brazilian Bum Bum cream.

55. Body Wash

I like to buy the 3-pack of Dove body washes so I never run out. (They also have Subscribe & Save for these.)

56. Toothpaste

Again, buy a multi-pack of toothpaste for college so you aren’t running to the store last minute.

57. Toothbrush

Toothbrushes are another item to buy in bulk so you don’t run out.

58. Floss

Same thing for floss. Buy a big pack, and it will last you all year.

59. Makeup

Makeup is a huge category and is different for every girl. Not sure what you need? See our list of college girl makeup essentials to get started.

60. Moisturizer

Bring a good facial moisturizer because dorms are very dry due to the heat/AC blasting. Vanicream is my forever favorite, and a tub lasts me six months.

61. Face Wash

Another no-brainer. A good gentle face wash is a must-have for every girl.

62. Acne Products

If you have acne, bring your go-to products. Everyone loves these cute pimple patches!

63. Sunscreen

A must-have for everyone! My favorite sunscreen is the La Roche Posay tinted SPF 50 one — it doesn’t sting eyes and gives your skin a hint of color.

64. Other Skincare Products

Any other products you use fall under this category. If you aren’t sure what else you need, see our guide to creating a simple skincare routine.

65. Deodorant

Another obvious one. Native Deodorant is super popular right now, and this one smells like coconut + vanilla.

66. Makeup Remover

A must if you wear makeup. Cleansing balms are popular on campus, as are reusable Makeup Eraser cloths.

67. Nail Polish Remover

Bring this if you wear nail polish! I like this one because it’s acetone-free, and the bottle is so cute.

68. Makeup Brush Cleaner

Don’t forget your brush cleaner! The Ecotools one is amazing. A brush cleaning mat helps, too.

69. Nail Polish

Don’t make the mistake I did by bringing all of your nail polish to college. Just bring a few favorite shades you’ll wear a lot.

70. Hair Ties

You can never have too many hair ties! These Gimme ones are popular, and they come in every shade to match your hair.

71. Blow Dryer

For me, a blow dryer is a must-have. This Revlon dryer comes with all the necessary attachments and is great quality.

72. Hot Tools

This includes curling irons, flat irons, and/or wavers. This is my fave curling iron, and the Airwrap is everyone’s fave on campus.

73. Contacts and/or Glasses

If you wear them, don’t forget them! And bring at least a semester’s worth of contacts so you don’t run out.

74. Menstrual Products

Whether you use a cup, tampons, or pads, don’t forget to pack these.

75. Contact Lens Case and Cleaner

Essential if you wear contacts.

76. Suitcase

You’ll need a suitcase for long trips home (winter break) and any vacations you’ll be taking (spring break).

This one from Amazon is well-reviewed, pretty, and very affordable.

77. Weekender Bag

A weekender bag is a must for weekend trips home or to visit friends at their schools.

Everyone has this Calpak one because it fits everything and even has a separate zip pocket for shoes.

78. Winter Accessories

For schools in cold climates, this includes hats, gloves, scarves, and any other winter-specific items to keep you warm. 

79. Sunglasses

Sunglasses are essential, but you don’t have to spend a lot on them! These Amazon bestsellers come in a 2-pack for $15.95.

80. Laundry Hampers

I highly recommend getting two laundry hampers, one for lights and one for darks. This way, your laundry will already be sorted when you visit the laundry room.

These pop-up hampers are super cheap and foldable, so they’re easy to pack.

81. Delicates Bag

So important to avoid snagging your bras on the rest of your laundry and ruining your strappy tops in the wash.

I have this exact delicates bag set, and I love that it has so many sizes to fit all of your items. The set is great for travel, too!

82. Drying Rack

Drying racks are not normally something you see on a college packing list, but I love mine, and here’s why.

If you have a lot of delicate items, items that need to be hand-washed (you and I both know no one is doing that), the dryer malfunctions, or — heaven forbid — no dryers are free, this baby saves you.

83. Detergent

Get a bottle of regular detergent, a medium size that’s easy to carry around. (Get new bottles auto-delivered via Prime Student.)

Pro-tip: Don’t get Tide Pods. These sound like a good idea but in many dorm washers, they get stuck and leave chunks of residue on your clothes.

84. Stain Remover

I’ve tried them all, and this Oxi Clean Spray (2-pack) is the absolute best for removing any type of stain.

85. Dryer Sheets

They are not essential, but I like to use these to remove static and add a fresh scent to clothes.

86. Lint Rollers

If you, like me, can’t stand lint on your clothes, buy a 3-pack of sticky lint rollers on Amazon for $13 and be set for the year.

87. Sewing Kit

Optional but so nice to have. I did not have one of these freshman year, and it would have saved me so many headaches.

88. Iron or Steamer

You might not use an iron all the time, but when you have an interview or business casual event coming up, you will need it.

Alternatively, a steamer is slower and more expensive than an iron but easier to pack since you won’t need an ironing board.

89. Ironing Board or Pad

Yes, an ironing board is an annoying thing to bring and store, but you will use it at some point. Get a tabletop board to save space.

If you want something smaller, an ironing mat is an alternative you can use on your bed. (Or just get a steamer and call it a day!)

90. Quarters

Most college laundry machines use cards, but on the off chance that the card reader malfunctions (it happens), it pays to have a stash of quarters ready.

91. Coffee Maker

It’s not college without coffee, so make sure you get a coffee maker. I’m obsessed with this little Keurig — it’s so compact and cute.

Keurigs are great for college because, often, you will only be making one or two cups at a time. This way, you won’t waste coffee, plus it’s ready faster.

92. Electric Kettle

Electric kettles are awesome for tea, oatmeal, and any instant meals or cooking that you need… without having to use the microwave or walk all the way to the communal kitchen.

My kettle was a gift, but this one is highly rated on Amazon.

93. Can Opener

I didn’t bring a can opener freshman year, and I was kicking myself.

You will definitely buy canned goods at some point (or your roommate will), so bring one.

Bonus, this doubles as a bottle opener!

94. Water Filter Pitcher

An absolute essential! Dorm tap water doesn’t exactly taste good right out of the tap, so get a good filter pitcher to keep fresh filtered water on hand in your room.

Don’t forget extra filters — you’re supposed to swap these out every three months.

95. Microwave

Before you buy this, make sure your school allows them AND that one will not already be provided in your room!

A small microwave is the way to go in college; you will not be heating up large amounts of anything, so keep it compact for the basics.

96. Mini-Fridge

Again, before you buy, make sure that this won’t already be provided.

A mini fridge is 1000% a must-have on every college packing list. Don’t skip this! And try to get one with a freezer. (Hello, ice cream.) To save money, coordinate with your roommate to split the cost.

97. Mugs

You definitely need mugs to drink your coffee in the mornings. 

These glass mugs are so incredibly chic — you’ll definitely bring them with you to your big girl apartment after college! 

98. Portable Coffee Mug

I am obsessed with my Contigo Mug to keep my coffee hot for hours.

When it comes to hot coffee, I always reach for my Contigo because I can throw it in my bag and be sure it won’t spill.

99. Reusable Water Bottle

Okay, so I know the Stanley Cup is the “it” water bottle, and those are definitely great, but I’m obsessed with the Owala FreeSip water bottle. 

I use this bottle 10x more than my Stanley because it has a straw but can also be thrown in my bag without leaking.

100. Utensils

You definitely need a set of utensils for eating in your room. If you want something cute, this set of gold utensils is adorable and under $20! 

I love buying sets like this for my dorm — you’re only in college once, so why not get something cute and functional?

101. Dishes

You need dishes for your room, and you don’t need to spend a lot to get the basics.

This 16-piece set from Amazon is under $40 for everything, and it even comes with mugs if you don’t want to buy those separately.

102. Reusable Straws

I have these exact glass straws and I prefer them to silicone because they don’t absorb odors.

Also, I love that they’re clear — makes it easy to tell that they’re completely clean when you wash them.

103. Napkins

Self-explanatory. You will definitely need these, so buy a big pack.

104. Snack and Sandwich Bags

I’m trying to cut down on single-use plastics, so I have these reusable sandwich bags.

105. Food Storage Containers

You will definitely need a few food storage containers for leftovers.

I prefer these glass ones to plastic, as they don’t get stained or absorb smells like the plastic ones do.

106. Bulk Snacks

You don’t need help with this. Get your favorite snacks and get them in bulk.

I love Kind Bars, Larabars, pretzels, and trail mix. If you have a Costco membership, buy your snacks there!

107. Cereal/Granola

Another obvious one. Get a few boxes to keep on hand for breakfast and snacking.

108. Oatmeal

Yet another college classic. Buy a big variety pack so you have flavor options.

109. Coffee and/or Tea

As mentioned above, I love K-Cups for college. Buy a huge variety pack (this one comes with 100 pods) and treat yourself to new flavors every week.

110. Milk/Milk Alternative

Get shelf-stable cartons of your favorite milk or milk alternative (I like oat milk for cereal and Nut Pods coffee creamer in Cinnamon for my coffee.)

111. Sugar (or Alternative)

For dorms, I like packets because they’re mess-free.

112. Hot Chocolate

Obviously, this one is not essential, but so nice to have for cozy nights!

113. Salt and Pepper

A no-brainer. Buy a set of salt and pepper shakers, and they’ll last you all year.

114. Any Other Spices You Use

Think Everything Bagel seasoning or any favorites from your family’s cuisine.

115. Instant Meals (Ramen, Mac & Cheese, etc.)

It wouldn’t be a college packing list without Easy Mac!

Seriously, though, stock up on instant meals even with a dining plan because there will be nights when you’re too tired to do anything except open a pack of Ramen.

116. Laptop

Obviously, you need a laptop for college. Macbook Airs are incredibly popular on every college campus, and I can’t live without mine. It’s by far the best computer I’ve ever used, and I love that it syncs flawlessly with my phone and tablet.

I also love Mac computers because they last forever — the last one I had lasted me nearly ten years without a single issue.

117. Extra Laptop Charger

Do yourself a favor and buy an extra laptop charger. I only had one for the longest time, and my life changed when I bought a second.

Now I have one that I keep at my desk and one that lives permanently in my laptop bag, and it’s made my life so much easier. Plus, if you ever have a problem with one charger, you have a backup ready to go.

118. Tablet or E-Reader

Tablets, specifically iPads, are super popular at college, and they’re so convenient for doing your reading and note-taking on the go.

I didn’t have one of these my freshman year, and now I’m so jealous of everyone who does! It would have made me 10x more organized.

119. Smartphone

Obviously, you need a phone. I’m an iPhone person, and I can’t imagine my life without it, but many people live and die for Android phones.

Tip: Get a smartphone with a good camera! You probably won’t bring a separate camera to college (more on that in a minute), so this saves you money.

120. 2 Phone Chargers

Definitely bring at least two phone chargers to college; I was always forgetting mine, so now my extra one lives in my bag forever.

Also, get an extra-long charging cord for your room! Dorm outlets are always weirdly placed (and sometimes there’s only one per room!), so this will help you so much.

121. Portable Phone Charger

It’s nice to have a portable phone charger in your bag in case of emergencies, and for under $30, this is some easy peace of mind you can give yourself.

I didn’t bring this to college, but I wish I had; it would have saved me multiple times during long days of classes.

122. Headphones

Everyone on campus has AirPods or AirPods Max, so they’re a must for any college packing list.

The noise-cancellation on both is next level, which is invaluable for the dorms.

123. Batteries

Get at least one pack of AA batteries and one pack of AAA batteries.

These are good to have on hand for things like TV remotes, wireless mice, Bluetooth speakers, etc.

124. Camera(s)

If you’re into photography, you may want to bring a film or digital camera to college.

125. SD Cards

If you’re bringing a DSLR or other digital camera, don’t forget some extra SD cards!

126. Film

I’m sure I don’t need to tell you this, but as a reminder:

If you are bringing a film camera, make sure to stock up on extra film so you don’t run out. It can be very hard to find!

127. Extension Cord

You absolutely NEED at least one power strip with a long cord. Non-negotiable!

Dorm outlets are weirdly placed or non-existent. My room sophomore year had ONE usable outlet in the whole room!

128. Laptop Case

You definitely need a laptop case to protect your investment.

I love this kit for the MacBook Air because it comes with a case, screen protector, and keyboard cover, all in an aesthetic rose-gray color. (They have a bunch of other colors, too!)

129. Bluetooth Speaker

Not an *essential* per se, but a Bluetooth speaker is super nice to have!

Right now, it seems like everyone has an Echo Pop in their dorm — it’s a Bluetooth speaker that includes Alexa so you can play music, check the weather, and more, all via voice command.

130. TV

It’s nice to have a smart TV in your room if you want to watch movies with your friends.

I had a TV in my room freshman year, and I loved it, but if you’re fine watching Netflix on your computer, this isn’t a must-have.

131. TV Stand

If you’re bringing a TV, definitely buy a small TV stand to go with it since there’s no way you’re wall-mounting a TV in a dorm.

This cute little TV stand is super cheap and doesn’t require any tools to put together!

132. HDMI Cord

You may want an HDMI cord to connect your laptop to your TV if you want to stream video, and they can be helpful for class presentations.

Note: If you have a Mac, you can just use screen mirroring instead of bothering with an HDMI cord.

133. Printer

This college checklist item is controversial. I loved having my printer because I’m lazy, and I didn’t want to waste time searching campus for a printer that wasn’t broken.

That said, there are many places on every campus to print, so you can survive college without your own printer.

134. Printer Ink

Be sure to get extra printer ink if you are bringing a printer to college. You don’t want to run out halfway through printing a paper.

135. Printer Paper

Yup, the same goes for printer paper here. Stock up so you don’t run out at a crucial moment!

136. Screwdriver

For putting together furniture or fixing a wobbly chair. Get a reversible screwdriver so you can use it on any screw.

137. Lightbulbs

Make sure you get LED bulbs for your lamps; they last 10+ years, so you’ll never have to change them.

138. Command Strips

For when you want to move a hook around or just want to hang something new on your wall, it pays to have extra Command strips on hand.

139. Wall Putty or Tape

This depends on what your school allows, so find out ahead of time. Wall putty is generally a safe bet for hanging pictures, as it doesn’t damage or mark walls.

140. Pushpins or Tacks

If you’re bringing a corkboard to college, these are a must-have. They can also be used to hang items, depending on what your school allows.

141. First Aid Kit

If you only buy one thing from this section, this dorm first aid kit should be it. It has everything you need, from first aid items to allergy medicine and hangover relief.

142. Band-Aids

The first aid kit I linked already has band-aids, but if you are clumsy like me, it doesn’t hurt to have an extra box of clear band-aids on your college packing list.

143. Vaseline

For healing everything from cracked, dry lips to eczema, Vaseline is an OG must-have that should be on every college packing list for girls.

144. Cough & Cold Medicine

For when you are sick on the same day as a really important exam (it’s happened to me), cold medicine will save you. Buy this pack and you’ll be set for day and night.

145. Decongestant

The first aid kit linked above doesn’t come with a decongestant, so grab a small pack for those sick days.

146. Allergy Medicine

The first aid kit above has Benadryl, but if you have more persistent allergies, stock up on Claritin or your allergy med of choice.

147. Cough Drops

Again, if you buy the first aid kit above, it comes with these. Otherwise, get a small bag to have on hand.

148. Sunscreen

I mentioned sunscreen in the skincare section, but it’s good to have a bottle of body sunscreen as well.

149. Aloe Vera

Aloe is a lifesaver if you, like me, are prone to sunburns at the slightest hint of a sunny day.

150. Pain Reliever

Definitely buy a decent-sized bottle of your favorite pain reliever to have on hand; you will definitely use it.

151. Vitamins & Supplements

Bring any vitamins or supplements you take, or at least a good multivitamin to take daily.

152. Throat Spray

Not essential, but throat spray is very nice to have if you get sick.

153. Eye Drops

Nice to have if you, like me, get dry eyes from too much computer time. These are the best eye drops I’ve tried.

154. Thermometer

The first aid kit above includes a thermometer, but here’s a good digital one if you’re putting together your own kit.

155. Tweezers

Definitely necessary for taming your brows. Invest in a good pair of Tweezerman tweezers, and they will last you all of college and beyond.

156. Safety Pins

If you’re a fashion girlie, don’t forget these. Safety pins are fashion lifesavers for everything from broken straps to holding bra straps in place.

157. Medicine for Upset Stomach

The first aid kit above comes with this, but it never hurts to have extra Pepto on hand for the morning after late-night pizza runs.

158. Cotton Pads/Cotton Balls

These are a must for things like nail polish remover, makeup remover, and applying products like toners.

159. Q-Tips

Beyond the obvious ear uses, these are essential for cleaning up mascara smudges and makeup mishaps.

160. Nail Clippers

Self-explanatory; don’t forget these! I like that this two-pack has two sets of clippers for nails and toes.

161. Prescription Medicine

Bring any prescription medicine you’re taking and, if possible, try to get a 3 or 6-month’s supply so you don’t have to bother with refills during a busy semester.

Be sure to save your labels so you can refill them if you need to.

162. Retainer/Mouth Guard

Your dentist will be mad at you if you forget this, so make sure it’s on your college packing list.

163. Pencils

I always get mechanical pencils so I don’t have to bother bringing a separate pencil sharpener. A big pack like this will last you all semester long.

164. Pens

Everyone has pen preferences, so buy a pack of your favorites. These Jetstream pens are my ride or dies because the tip is super fine and the ink never smudges.

165. Eraser

This one is just a nice-to-have; I personally don’t use a separate eraser but I also don’t do much writing in pencil. It’s up to you whether you feel you need this.

166. Highlighters

If you read our school supplies guide, you know about our love for pastel Mildliners — so much prettier and easier on the eyes than harsh neon highlighters.

167. Post-Its

For everything from to-do lists to leaving yourself reminders on your mirror (does anyone else do this?), post-its are super helpful in college.

I like the lined ones because I hate when my writing slants.

168. Planner

I couldn’t live without my planner; this is 1000% essential in my book.

I’ve talked a lot about my favorite planner before and I’ve linked it again here. It has everything you need for college, and it’s super affordable as far as nice planners go!

169. Notebooks

There’s nothing better than a fresh notebook, and these these Mintra college-ruled notebooks have such aesthetic covers.

170. Lined Paper

If you will be using binders in school (some classes require it), definitely get college-ruled paper for maximum note-taking space.

171. Binder(s)

I recommend bringing a four-pack of binders to start with freshman year. You can always get more if you want a binder for every class.

172. Folders

How cute are these little clear folders? I love that they’re plastic and snap shut to keep your documents protected in your bag.

173. Ruler

Whether you’re doing math or arts & crafts, you’ll probably want a ruler at college.

174. Scissors

Scissors are helpful for craft projects and opening packages when you shop online.

175. Stapler

Highly recommended if your building doesn’t already provide one in the printer room. This acrylic one is so cute on any desk.

176. Tape Dispenser

This minimalist acrylic tape dispenser looks modern and will go with any type of decor.

177. Textbooks

You’ll spend half your life savings on textbooks, so don’t leave them off your college packing list.

178. Eye Mask

I highly recommend this, especially if you have a roommate. There may be times when your roommate wants to study while you want to sleep, and a good eye mask is a lifesaver in that scenario!

179. Earplugs

Even more important than an eye mask, IMO. Earplugs will save your life if you have loud neighbors or a roommate who is on an opposite schedule. I’ve found the Loop ones are the most comfortable out there.

180. Fan

I’m someone who needs a fan to sleep well. Even if you don’t sleep with it on, a small fan helps a TON if your dorm doesn’t have A/C (many don’t) or just gets crazy hot when the heat is on.

181. White Noise Machine

I didn’t bring this freshman year, and I really wish I had! A white noise machine is so nice to have, especially if you, like me, are sensitive to noises when you’re sleeping or studying.

182. Beach Towel

For laying out on the quad, bring a beach towel with you! I love these ones because they fold up super tiny to fit in any bag.

183. Board Games or Cards

Definitely have some games on hand for girls nights! Cards Against Humanity and For the Girls are always hilarious.

184. Art Supplies

Optional but nice to have if you’re crafty or artistic. This could include paints, sketch pads and pencils, pastels, etc. Just don’t go too crazy; dorms are small.

I personally brought gel pens for decorating my notes and planner.

185. Umbrella

An obvious essential if you’re going to school in Seattle or Boston, but not so much if you’ll be in Tucson.

Personally, I love bubble umbrellas — they’re cute and make it easy to see where you’re going.

186. Yoga Mat or Sports Equipment

I love having a yoga mat for at-home workouts and classes. Exercise bands and small dumbbells are other good options.

187. Flashlight

You *probably* won’t need it, but a flashlight is important to have in an emergency. (Power outages do happen!)

188. Pepper Spray

Note: check the rules at your school and in your state before bringing this as it’s banned on many campuses.

I didn’t bring pepper spray to college, and I (luckily) never felt like I needed it, but many women feel safer having it.

189. Personal Alarm

A personal alarm is a great alternative (or accompaniment) to pepper spray; it emits a super loud sound and flashing lights to alert others to your location.

You can get a six-pack for just $20; one for every bag.

190. Safe

A small safe is helpful if you’re bringing anything valuable to college and/or have roommates or lots of people in and out of your room. It’s recommended if you’re going to school in a major city.

I didn’t bring this to college, but it comes down to what makes you feel comfortable.

191. Diffuser & Essential Oils

Essential oil diffusers are a popular way to scent your room since candles aren’t allowed in most dorms. (Here are some great starter oils to try.)

Be sure to check if these are allowed on your campus before you buy, though. Some schools have banned them.

192. Bike (& Bike Accessories)

I didn’t bring a bike to college, but many people do. If you’re bringing one, don’t forget to pack accessories like your lock and helmet.

193. Religious Materials

For students who practice an organized religion.

194. Musical Instruments

Many students bring musical instruments to college. If you’re one of them, don’t forget any necessary accessories, like extra strings, sheet music, reeds, tuners, etc.