What to Buy for College: Your Ultimate Shopping List

Heading off to college is an exciting and transformative experience. Whether you're moving into a dorm room or renting an apartment, there's a lot to think about when it comes to getting your space ready for the semester. To ensure you're fully prepared, it’s crucial to know what to buy for college. While it’s tempting to load up on trendy items, it's best to focus on the essentials—those things that will make your college life more comfortable and efficient. Here’s a comprehensive guide to what to buy for college, divided into key categories to help you stay organized and make sure you don’t forget anything important.

1. Bedding and Sleep Essentials

A good night’s sleep is vital for staying focused and performing well academically. Depending on your living situation, you’ll need different bedding items. If you're in a dorm, you'll likely need a twin XL mattress (since that’s the standard size for most college dorms). Be sure to check with your school for specific requirements.

Items to Buy:

• Twin XL sheets and pillowcases

• Comforter or duvet

• Pillows

• Throw blankets (for cozy nights in your room)

2. Kitchen and Dining Supplies

Whether you're living in a dorm with a communal kitchen or in an apartment, having some kitchen essentials will help you prepare easy meals, snacks, or even just coffee to fuel your day.

Items to Buy:

• Reusable water bottle (stay hydrated!)

• Microwave (if allowed in your dorm)

• Toaster or toaster oven

• Set of pots, pans, and utensils (if you're in an apartment)

• Plates, bowls, and mugs (preferably reusable)

• Can opener

• Mini fridge (if not already supplied)

3. School Supplies and Stationery

College requires lots of reading, writing, and organizing. Having the right supplies will help you stay on top of your coursework. While most things can be found at the campus bookstore, it’s always cheaper to buy ahead of time.

Items to Buy:

• Binders, notebooks, or planners

• Highlighters, pens, and pencils

• Index cards (great for studying)

• Sticky notes

• Backpack or tote bag (for carrying books and a laptop)

• Laptop and/or tablet (a must!)

4. Technology and Gadgets

In today’s digital world, a few tech gadgets are non-negotiable for college students. They’ll make your life easier, whether you need to do assignments, stay connected with friends and family, or keep yourself entertained during downtime.

Items to Buy:

• Laptop (essential for writing papers, researching, and attending online classes)

• Headphones or earbuds (for studying, music, or watching videos)

• Portable charger or power bank (for those long days between classes)

• Printer (if needed—many colleges have printing facilities on campus)

• USB cables, charging cords, and adapters

• Extension cord

5. Clothing and Personal Care Items

Pack for the climate and activities of your college town. If you're attending school in a colder climate, layering pieces are a must. Don’t forget about personal hygiene items either—they're essential for maintaining a fresh and confident feeling throughout the day.

Items to Buy:

• Seasonal clothing (jackets, sweaters, or shorts depending on the weather)

• Comfortable shoes (for walking around campus)

• Laundry detergent, dryer sheets, and laundry basket (if you’ll be doing your own laundry)

• Toiletries like shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, etc.

• Skincare products (cleanser, moisturizer, sunscreen)

• Shower caddy (for easy access to your bathroom essentials)

6. Storage and Organization

Space can be limited in dorms or apartments, so getting creative with storage and organization is key. Invest in storage containers, hooks, and other solutions to keep everything in its place.

Items to Buy:

• Under-bed storage bins or boxes

• Closet organizers (hangers, shoe racks)

• Desk organizer (to keep pens, papers, and tech organized)

• Hanging hooks or over-the-door organizers

• Wastebasket and Waste bin

7. Health and Safety Essentials

Staying healthy and safe is a priority in college. Be sure to have basic health items on hand, along with any necessary medical supplies.

Items to Buy:

• First aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic, pain relievers)

• Prescriptions or over-the-counter medications (make sure to have refills in place)

• Disinfecting wipes or hand sanitizer

• Face masks (if required or preferred in your area)

• Bike lock or other security items for your valuables

Conclusion

While the thought of shopping for college may feel overwhelming, keep in mind that you don’t need to buy everything at once. Start with the essentials—things that will make your living space functional, comfortable, and conducive to study. Over time, you can add the little extras that make your college experience truly unique. With the right preparation, you’ll be able to hit the ground running and focus on the exciting new chapter ahead!

Check out the Finders Hub. You might just find what you need for college