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College Dorm Haul Packing List

Updated: Aug 6

I can't believe the time has come to pack my baby up and send him off to college! As you probably know, I am an organized packer! After getting all the lists and asking other moms about must haves to pack, I have my final list (I think). So, I am sharing it with you here complete with links. I have not included clothes on this list and since I am a boy mom I have not included dorm interior designers but I know it's a thing!

Car packed full of dorm essentials for college.

First and foremost, your child's college should have a list of what is not allowed in their dorm room such as nails in the wall, toasters, extension cords, etc. Be sure to review that before you do your shopping!


These oversided bags are perfect for packing! Be sure to unbox everything ahead of time and pack into bags. You don't want to have to haul empty boxes away after move-in!


Some places still don't have AC or may be cold in the winter. This Dyson fan does cold and hot and can do double duty!


Bedding and Bath:

Since we don't live close to a Target or similar store, I have to do the bulk of my shopping online. I had a lot of luck at Pottery Barn Dorm for this category. I ordered this great towel set with bath mat. Additionally, I purchased a Tempur-Pedic topper as well as pillows.

  • Bedding set: sheets and comforter with an extra set of sheets

  • Throw blanket

  • Wedge pillow

  • Lap desk

  • Laundry bag

  • Shower caddy and shoes (for hall bathrooms)

  • Desk lamp with charging ports

  • Washable rug


Living Essentials:

I have curated a shoppable list HERE

  • Bicycle, lock, and light

  • Refrigerator

  • Microwave

  • Can opener, bottle opener

  • Chip clips

  • Clothes hangers

  • Iron or steamer

  • Bathroom trash can and trash bags

  • Desk trash can and trash bags

  • Flashlight

  • Batteries

  • Portable charger

  • Bug spray

  • Laundry detergent & dryer sheets

  • First Aid Kit/ Band Aids

  • Tool Kit

  • Small safe

  • Bed Risers and Rubber Mallet

  • Over door rack

  • Cleaning Supplies (Lysol wipes) and Paper Towels

  • Toilet bowl brush and plunger for suite bathrooms

  • Disposable plates, serveware etc and can opener

  • Damp Rid

  • Air Purifier

  • Underbed storage bins

  • Power strips/ surge protectors

  • Lightbulbs

  • Putty for wall hanging

  • Small vacuum

  • Tension rod and curtains

  • TV

  • Alarm Clock

  • Ziploc bags


Drug Store List:

  • Soap

  • Shampoo/ Conditioner

  • Razors

  • Toothpaste/ Toothbrush

  • Kleenex

  • Q tips

  • Med Kit: Advil, Tylenol, Imodium A-D, thermometer, electrolytes, allergy meds


Academic List:

  • Backpack

  • Laptop

  • Flash drives

  • Ethernet cables

  • Zip ties

  • Bulletin board

  • Binders, paper, pens, pencils, scissors, tape

  • Calculator


This post contains affiliate links. If you click on a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.


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