College Dorm Packing List: What to Bring for Boys and Girls

Getting ready to move your child into their college dorm? Whether it’s your first college drop-off or your last, one thing’s for sure: packing for college can feel like a full-time job. From dorm bedding and storage bins to desk supplies and shower caddies, the list of college essentials adds up fast.

To save you the stress (and those last-minute Target runs), I created the ultimate college dorm packing list — actually, two of them. One for girls. One for boys. Both lists include all the dorm room must-haves, from practical items to the things no one remembers until it’s too late.

This isn’t my first rodeo. I’ve moved two boys and two girls into dorm rooms across four different campuses. And let me tell you — I’ve learned what’s worth bringing, what’s a waste of space, and how to avoid hauling home a bin of untouched extras at Thanksgiving.

This guide covers:

Bedroom and bedding essentials
Kitchenette must-haves
School and desk supplies
Bathroom gear
Storage and organization solutions
Extra items for comfort, tech, or sanity

If you’re searching for a printable college packing list or wondering what to pack for a dorm room that’s smart and stylish — you’re in the right place.

College Dorm Checklist for Boys

Packed by a pro: I’ve sent two boys (and two girls) off to college, and these are the real must-haves they actually used.

Bedroom

Twin XL sheet sets (2-3 sets)
Mattress protector (zippered and waterproof)
Mattress topper (foam or gel)
Comforter or duvet
Pillows (2-4)
Pillow protectors
Extra throw blanket
Bed risers (if needed)
Under-bed storage bins (with wheels and/or lids)
Plastic 3-drawer organizer
Bedside shelf or caddy
Laundry basket or pop-up hamper
Command hooks and strips
Hangers (slimline or plastic)
Fan (clip-on or box fan)
Rug (small or area)
Floor lamp or desk lamp
Trash can and liners
Step stool (folding)
Wall decor, posters, or corkboard
Door mirror
Over-the-door hooks
Blackout curtains (if allowed)
Extension cords and surge protectors
Power strip with USB ports
Air purifier or odor absorber

Bath

Towels (4 bath, 2 hand, 2 washcloths)
Shower caddy (mesh recommended)
Shower shoes (flip-flops)
Robe
Toiletry bag (with handle or hanging)
Nail clippers, tweezers, grooming kit
Electric razor or grooming tools
Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, mouthwash
Hair products
Body wash or soap
Loofah or washcloth
Deodorant
Shampoo + conditioner
Q-tips and cotton rounds
Razor and shaving cream
Nail brush or pumice
Medications (OTC and prescriptions)
First aid kit (band-aids, Neosporin, Tylenol, etc.)
Tissues
Toilet paper (initial stock)

Laundry + Cleaning

Detergent (pods or liquid)
Dryer sheets or wool balls
Stain remover (stick or spray)
Wrinkle release spray
Lint roller
Small vacuum or handheld vac
Broom and dustpan
Disinfecting wipes
Paper towels
Microfiber cloths
Small cleaning caddy or basket

Kitchenette

Mini fridge (if not provided)
Microwave (if allowed)
Coffee maker or electric kettle (if allowed)
Dish soap and sponge
Dish towel
Paper plates and bowls
Plastic utensils
Reusable cup or tumbler
Water bottle
Can opener and scissors
Small trash can and bags
Snack bin or basket
Shelf-stable snacks
Ziplock bags and food storage containers

School/Desk Supplies

Desk organizer or drawer tray
Pens, pencils, highlighters
Notebooks and folders
Sticky notes
Index cards
Scissors
Tape
Stapler + staples
Printer paper (if bringing a printer)
Laptop and charger
USB flash drive or external hard drive
Headphones or earbuds
Backpack
Blue light glasses
Bulletin board or whiteboard

Misc

Sports equipment
Umbrella
Rain jacket
Reusable shopping bags
Bike lock and helmet (if bringing bike)
Toolkit (screwdriver, wrench, etc.)
Insurance hard copies
ID, license, school ID, bank info
Flashlight
Batteries (AA?AAA)
Fan or white noise machine

College Checklist For Girls