Congratulations on starting your college journey this fall. You’re about to move into the residence halls, and while your school has probably sent over packing lists and recommendations, you’re likely still asking yourself: What do I actually need to bring? As someone who spent five years living in the dorms—two as a student, and three as a Resident Assistant—I’ve learned that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. But there are some tips that can help you make move-in day easier and dorm life more comfortable.
Tip #1: Follow Your School’s Move-In Instructions
Every school handles move-in a little differently. Some have scheduled time slots, others allow students to pull up and unload at their own pace. Whatever your school’s process is, stick to it. That will help things run smoothly on a day that’s already packed with students, parents, RAs, and staff rushing around.
Tip #2: Choose a Packing Style That Fits You
There are generally two ways to approach dorm packing:
- Pack light by bringing just your clothes, your laptop, basic bedding, and a few personal items. Then buy anything else once you’ve moved in. This approach is flexible and helps keep clutter down.
- Pack everything you think you might need by following the school’s packing list to the letter. This method saves time and store trips later but can easily become overwhelming, especially if space is tight. Both methods work—it depends on your personality and how much you like to plan ahead.
Tip #3: Learn From Experience
My first year, I brought everything from home. Desk lamps, decorations, storage bins, even books I never ended up opening. By my fifth year, I had it down to just clothes, my laptop, and bedsheets. Life had gotten so busy with internships and classes that I didn’t have the time or interest to decorate. That said, if this is your first year, go ahead and decorate your room. Make it your own. It’s your home away from home, and adding your personality can make the transition easier.
Tip #4: Pack Smarter, Not More
Here are some updated 2025 packing tips to help you stay organized and save space:
- Use vacuum-seal bags for bulky items like jackets and blankets
- Bring a surge protector with USB ports
- Leave seasonal items at home and swap them out during breaks
- Skip duplicates and coordinate with your roommate
- Focus on function with under-bed bins and over-the-door organizers
- Pack a “Day One” bag with essentials like toiletries, chargers, and a change of clothes
Final Thought
Living in a dorm means learning to live with less. And that’s a good thing. You don’t need to bring everything—just what will make you feel comfortable, focused, and ready for this next chapter. So whether you go minimalist or maximalist, just remember this: your dorm is not about perfection. It’s about making a space where you can thrive.