12 Dorm Life Must-Haves
If you thought K-12 “Back to School” shopping was crazy, you might want to brace yourself when it comes to shopping for dorm room items. Figuring out what is needed…

If you thought K-12 “Back to School” shopping was crazy, you might want to brace yourself when it comes to shopping for dorm room items.
Figuring out what is needed for your child’s dorm is tough, because while most incoming freshmen need a ton of stuff, they’re usually dealing with limited space when it comes to dorm life. However, we are here to help. Here are 12 dorm life must-haves that’ll save space and be lifesavers.
There’s going to be a lot of late night study sessions, which will lead to groggy mornings. Coffee will become essential, and this Compact Keurig will definitely come in handy without taking up too much space.
Dirty clothes have to go somewhere. Instead of on the floor, give this pop-up hamper a go. It has handles for easy carrying and can collapse down when not in use.
So many things that need charging! So few outlets! Considering your Freshman will likely have at least one roommate and everyone has a cell phone, a laptop and who knows what else, power strips are essential. Thanks to technology, there are now power strips that have added USB ports so there’s no excuse for anyone’s cell phone battery dying out.
It’s every college student’s fear, isn’t it? You’re plugging away on a massive term paper due tomorrow, and then all of a sudden, something goes awry, and your paper is GONE! Make sure everything is backed up with an external hard drive. The one below has a 2TB capacity, so by “everything,” we really mean “everything.”
For those who don’t have the cash to buy a new mattress, consider buying a bed bug protector mattress cover, because who knows who slept there last.
We have two words for you: “Ra” and “Men.”
You know…for all their perishable food needs, not beer. NEVER BEER!
Remember how dorms are small? You have to get creative when it comes to storage, and there are a ton of over-the-door options, like the 42 pocket organizer below.
Self-Adhesive Wall Hooks
Repeat: Dorms are small and short on storage! Once your door has been optimized for storage, turn your wall into a storage oasis with some self-adhesive hooks perfect for hanging a coat.
Whether listening to a playlist or tuning out an annoying roommate, noise canceling headphones are a definite must. While you’re at it, if rooming with a snorer, earplugs might be a good idea, too.
Last, but definitely not least: If dealing with communal bathrooms, having all of your toiletries packed in a convenient shower caddy will make waiting in line to shower a lot less annoying. Don’t forget flip-flops, too! Warts and foot fungus is gross!
Favorite part about "Back To School" time for blogger Erica Banas? All the killer clothing sales for her ever-growing teenage stepson ...and maybe she picks up something for herself, too!