While summer may be in full swing, it will soon be time to pack up and head to campus for the fall semester. This post includes more than 24 items to add to your college packing list, from one of my favorite kitchen must-haves to wall decor to organization essentials.
I based this list on my actual college and grad school experience, focusing on the items I loved and used the most. However, please keep in mind your own housing rules when reading through this list (for example, your school may not allow the use of Command Strips).
That being said, read on and add these items to your cart now- there are some great sales going on as I write this!
(P.S. I have already listed 32 other college must-haves for girls in this post– so check it out when you’re done reading through this one!)
24 College Essentials for Girls (Kitchen, Storage, and More):
1. Weekend Bag
I always found that my backpack just didn’t have enough room for everything I wanted to take on trips back home, so a weekend bag was a must-have. I love Vera Bradley bags because they are really durable, spacious, and come in a bunch of colors/patterns.
| Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
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Vera Bradley Women's Performance Twill Weekender Travel Bag, True Black, One Size |
$175.00
$121.68 |
Buy on Amazon |
Last update on 2024-11-20 at 14:12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
2. Travel Jewlery Case
I wear jewelry every day, and I loved using a travel jewelry case for storing it in my college apartment. Then I could easily grab it and pack it in my bag for trips back home.
| Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
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Kate Spade New York Staci Travel Jewelry Box in Black | $68.00 | Buy on Amazon |
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KElofoN Travel Jewelry Case and Organizer with Mirror - Gift for Women and Girls |
$6.99 |
Buy on Amazon |
Last update on 2024-11-20 at 14:12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
3. Makeup Bag
I did my makeup at my desk in my bedroom when in college, but it needed to be put away afterward so I could use the desk to actually study. A big makeup bag like this one is super handy for that purpose, and for packing up your makeup for trips.
| Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
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Large Travel Quilted Makeup Bag for Women,Big Floral Cotton Cosmetic Bag, Cute Coquette Aesthetic... |
$15.99 |
Buy on Amazon |
Last update on 2024-11-20 at 14:12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
4. Desk Organizer
You don’t want your desk to be chaotic, so pick out a desk organizer. The one below had a bunch of different compartments to fit your pens, pencils, highlighters, calculator, and more.
| Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
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COMFYROOM Desk Organizer and Accessories with 6 Compartments and 2 Drawers, Plastic Makeup... |
$11.99
$10.99 |
Buy on Amazon |
Last update on 2024-11-20 at 14:12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
5. Notebooks
I know a lot of work is done online now, but I’ve always been the kind of person that likes handwriting notes. You can pick up a basic notebook anywhere, but it’s fun to have a couple cute ones as well.
| Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
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Lilly Pulitzer Large Hardcover Spiral Notebook, 11" x 9.5" with 160 College Ruled Pages, It Was All... |
$16.95 |
Buy on Amazon |
Last update on 2024-11-20 at 14:12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
6. Photo Board
If there isn’t already a cork board in your dorm, a board like the one below would be a perfect blank slate to decorate with pictures, posters, and more.
| Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
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Navaris Framed Linen Bulletin Board - 17 x 23 inches Fabric Jewelry Organizer Pinboard for Wall... |
$39.99
$35.99 |
Buy on Amazon |
Last update on 2024-11-20 at 14:12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
7. Command Hooks
Your ability to use command hooks depends on your housing rules. However, it is common to only be able to use hooks like these that don’t harm the walls as much as nails and pins- so stock up now!
| Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
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Command Variety Pack, Including 10 Pairs of Picture Hanging Strips, 6 Wire Hooks and 8 Utility Hooks... |
$20.99
$13.82 |
Buy on Amazon |
Last update on 2024-11-20 at 14:12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
8. Extra Long Charging Cable
Make sure you can lay comfortably in bed and charge your phone.
| Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
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iPhone Charger 3pack 10FT Apple MFi Certified Long Lightning Cable Fast Charging High Speed Data... |
$9.99 |
Buy on Amazon |
Last update on 2024-11-20 at 14:12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
9. Small Vacuum
You’ll likely be able to borrow or rent a large vacuum cleaner from the front desk of your on-campus housing building. However, a small handheld vacuum like this one will help you keep your space tidy on a daily basis.
| Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
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BLACK+DECKER dustbuster QuickClean Cordless Handheld Vacuum (HNVC215B10) |
$29.99 |
Buy on Amazon |
Last update on 2024-11-20 at 14:12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
10. Hard-Soled Slippers
Emphasis on hard-soled, so you can wear them around your building- to go do laundry, grab a snack from the vending machines, etc. I have a pair of these Bearpaw slippers and love them! They’re really great quality, a bit more affordable than Uggs, and have lasted me years.
| Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
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BEARPAW Women's Loki Hickory Size 8 | Women's Slippers | Women's Shoe | Comfortable & Light-Weight |
$52.94 |
Buy on Amazon |
Last update on 2024-11-20 at 14:12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
11. Clip-On Fan
There’s a good chance you won’t be able to have any kind of AC in on-campus housing, so this clip-on fan would be nice to clip onto your bed during hot nights at the start of the semester.
| Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
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Gaiatop Portable Clip on Fan Battery Operated, Small Powerful USB Desk Fan, 3 Speed Quiet... |
$15.99 |
Buy on Amazon |
Last update on 2024-11-20 at 14:12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
12. Drawer Organizers
These organizers are great for both organizing your clothing and using your storage space effectively.
| Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
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DIMJ Drawer Organizer, Underwear Drawer Organizer Divider, Set of 4 Fabric Drawer Organizer, Dresser... |
$9.99 |
Buy on Amazon |
Last update on 2024-11-20 at 14:12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
13. Lock & Locks or Other Tupperware
You may not even think of this one until you reach for a container for leftovers or something to pack a snack in to bring to the library. My favorite brand of food storage containers is Lock & Lock because of their durability and the fact that they seal really well. This set includes some great basic sizes.
| Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
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LOCK & LOCK Easy Essentials Food Storage lids/Airtight containers, BPA Free, 10 Piece - Square,... |
$27.84 |
Buy on Amazon |
Last update on 2024-11-20 at 14:12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
14. Mini Fridge
You’ll only need a fridge if you’re in a dorm and the school doesn’t already supply one. It is truly an essential item though, so if you don’t have one pick one up now.
| Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
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Upstreman 3.2 Cu.Ft Mini Fridge with Freezer, Single Door Mini Fridge, Dorm Fridge, Adjustable... | $179.99 $159.99 | Buy on Amazon |
Last update on 2024-11-20 at 14:12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
15. Fridge Caddy
To use your space more effectively, pick up a fridge caddy to store condiments, snacks, utensils, and more.
| Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
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Smart Design Mini Fridge Organizer with 12 Pockets - Durable Polyester Material - Stores Pantry... |
$22.50
$19.99 |
Buy on Amazon |
Last update on 2024-11-20 at 14:12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
16. Microwave
Again, please check if your school will be supplying a microwave in your dorm or apartment. If not, pick one up now!
| Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
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BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety Lock,... |
$96.24 |
Buy on Amazon |
Last update on 2024-11-20 at 14:12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
17. Microwave-Safe Dishes
You need at least a couple plates and bowls that you can use to heat food up, and this set comes with mugs too!
| Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
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Amazon Basics 16-Piece Porcelain Kitchen Dinnerware Set with Plates, Bowls and Mugs, Service for 4 -... |
$47.48 |
Buy on Amazon |
Last update on 2024-11-20 at 14:12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
18. Microwave Bowl Holder
I LOVE bowl holders for the microwave and I used mine all the time during college since I wasn’t always eating at a table. It’s just so convenient and makes it easy to hold your food without burning your hands. This cute one comes in two sizes and a bunch of other patterns.
| Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
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MHTTTEC Bowl Holder for Hot Food Large Bottom Bowl Huggers Microwave Safe Holders Soft Soup Bowl... | Buy on Amazon |
Last update on 2024-11-20 at 14:12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
19. Basic Utensils
Do you need enough silverware to feed 20? Definitely not. But you will need some forks, spoons, and knives.
| Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
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Stainless Steel 12PCS Dinner Set combo with 4 Dinner Knives, 4 Dinner Forks, 4 Dinner... |
$18.99 |
Buy on Amazon |
Last update on 2024-11-20 at 14:12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
20. Rain Jacket
When packing your clothes, don’t forget a rain jacket! There’s nothing worse than getting drenched when walking to class across campus in a downpour.
| Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
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Columbia Women's Switchback III Jacket, Fuchsia, Large |
$75.00
$71.50 |
Buy on Amazon |
Last update on 2024-11-20 at 14:12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
21. Umbrella
Same idea here- be prepared for bad weather!
| Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
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Gorilla Grip Windproof Compact Stick Umbrella for Rain, One-Click Automatic Open and Close, Strong... |
$17.90 |
Buy on Amazon |
Last update on 2024-11-20 at 14:12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
22. Throw Blanket
You don’t need a bunch of throw blankets, and probably won’t have room to store a lot of them. However, make sure you have one or two good ones to curl up with after a long day. I love Berkshire blankets because they’re super soft, large, and cozy.
| Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
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Berkshire Blanket-Classic Heavyweight Soft Printed VelvetLoft® Plush Blanket, Full/Queen Size Soft... |
$34.99 |
Buy on Amazon |
Last update on 2024-11-20 at 14:12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
23. Decorative Pillow(s)
You don’t need a ton of decorative pillows, especially if you’re living in a dorm. (Remember, they have to be put somewhere when you actually go to sleep). However, one or two can look super cute.
Ugg pillows, like the one below, are great quality and will last you through college and into your post-grad life.
| Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
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UGG Ana Knit Throw Pillow - 20x20 Inch Plush Square Reversible Accent Pillow, Eyelash Sweater Knit &... | Buy on Amazon |
Last update on 2024-11-20 at 14:12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
24. Wall Decor
What you want to put on your walls all depends on your aesthetic and the color palette of your room, but I’ve added a few of my favorite poster packs from Amazon below. I suggest looking through the different colors and styles for each of them- there are a ton of options!
Last update on 2024-11-20 at 14:12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
BONUS! Cleaning Supplies
This is more of a category of items, but you need to pack some basic cleaning supplies. I would make sure to pack:
- Dish soap
- Sponges
- Paper toweling
- Some sort of multi-surface cleaner (my favorite is Windex)
- Microfiber towels
- Toilet bowl cleaner (if you are living in an apartment or dorm with an attached bathroom)
- Swedish dishcloths
- Dish towels
Last update on 2024-11-20 at 14:12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
That's all for this list!
Make sure you check out part one of my list of college must-haves HERE for even more items to add to your packing list before heading off to school in the fall.
Pin the image below to come back to this list later!
