The Ultimate College Packing List for a Cozy and Functional Dorm

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Hello, beautiful!

Moving into a college dorm is an exciting milestone, but it can also feel overwhelming when trying to figure out what to pack. To help you create a cozy and functional living space, we’ve put together the ultimate college packing list, covering everything from essentials to comfort items. Let’s break it down into six key sections!

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Pinterest dorm room

1. Bedding Essentials for Comfort and Coziness

A good night’s sleep is crucial for your academic success and overall well-being, so start by focusing on bedding essentials that will keep you cozy and well-rested.


  • Comforter or Duvet: A warm, soft comforter or duvet in a design you love adds both function and style to your bed.
  • Pillows: Pack at least two or three pillows for sleeping and extra support. Consider a decorative pillow for an added cozy touch.
  • Sheets & Pillowcases: Invest in quality, breathable sheets (preferably cotton or linen) and extra pillowcases to switch them out as needed.
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Ever Lasting cotton sheets
Ever Lasting Fuzzy Ball Round Pillow
Ever Lasting Bow Shaped Decor Pillow
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2. Storage Solutions for Organization

Dorm rooms tend to have limited space, so effective storage is essential to keeping your space neat and functional.


  • Under-Bed Storage: Utilize the space under your bed with storage bins or drawers for items like shoes, extra clothes, or school supplies.
  • Closet Organizers: Hanging shelves or over-the-door organizers help you maximize closet space for shoes, accessories, and cleaning supplies.
Pinterest dorm organizers
Pinterest hangers
  • Storage Baskets or Shelves: Use baskets to keep things like toiletries, snacks, and school supplies organized and accessible.
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3. Study and Tech Essentials for Academic Success

A functional and productive study area is key to staying on top of assignments and projects.


  • Desk Lamp: A good-quality desk lamp with adjustable brightness is perfect for late-night study sessions.
  • Laptop & Charger: Ensure you have a laptop, charger, and backup power source to handle all your academic work and entertainment needs.
  • Notebooks & Stationery: Stock up on notebooks, pens, highlighters, and sticky notes for taking notes and staying organized.
Ever Lasting lamp
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Pinterest stationary

4. Kitchen and Food Essentials for Convenience

Even though you might have access to a dining hall, having some kitchen essentials in your dorm will help you with snacking, meal prep, or late-night cravings.


  • Mini Fridge: A small fridge allows you to store drinks, snacks, or leftovers and is perfect for keeping essentials like milk and fruit.
  • Microwave: A microwave is a must for quickly heating up meals, snacks, or leftovers when you’re in a rush.
  • Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated throughout the day with a sturdy, reusable water bottle.
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Pinterest dorm kitchen essentials
Pinterest dorm kitchen essentials
Pinterest dorm kitchen essentials
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5. Personal Care and Hygiene Items for Well-being

Maintaining your personal hygiene and health is important when adjusting to dorm life. Pack items that will keep you feeling fresh and clean.


  • Shower Caddy: A portable shower caddy makes it easy to carry toiletries to and from the bathroom, keeping them organized and accessible.
  • Towels & Washcloths: Invest in a set of bath towels, hand towels, and washcloths. A quick-dry towel is ideal for dorm life.
  • Toiletries: Don’t forget essentials like soap, shampoo, conditioner, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, and any personal care items you regularly use.
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Pinterest dorm desk
Pinterest bathroom essentials
Ever Lasting Macaron Color Face Towel

6. Decorative Touches for a Cozy, Personalized Space

Your dorm room should feel like a home away from home, so add personal touches that reflect your personality and make the space inviting.


  • Fairy Lights or String Lights: String lights create a warm and cozy atmosphere in your dorm room, perfect for winding down or hanging out with friends.
  • Posters & Artwork: Decorate the walls with posters, prints, or photos that make you feel comfortable and inspired.
  • Rugs & Carpets: A soft rug will make the room feel cozier and add color or texture to your floor.
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In summary we have learned:

Essential Comfort & Organization: Pack bedding, storage solutions, and personal care items to create a cozy, functional space with everything you need for comfort and organization.

Study & Tech Tools: Ensure academic success with essential study tools like a desk lamp, laptop, notebooks, and a power strip, along with tech gear for productivity.

Personalized Touches & Convenience: Add personal décor items like fairy lights and artwork, and pack kitchen essentials like a mini fridge and microwave for easy meals and snacks.

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FAQs

Do you offer student discounts?

Absolutely! We understand education is expensive, and are pleased to offer 10% off to those in school pursuing higher education. Simply send us an email to verify your student status and receive your discount code. :)

What size should I get?

In terms of sizing, most college dorms have Twin XL beds. In that case, we recommend going with a small size bed set and flat sheet. If you're looking for a fresh start or not sure where to begin, we recommend checking out our bundles! Each bundle will include a pillow, duvet insert and bedding set! It is also already pre discounted! Say heyyy to savings.

Don't see the bundle for the style of bedding set you like? Reach out to us and we might be able to make it happen! :)

For more info on bedding and sizing check out our size guide.

How should I decorate my room?

However you feel fit! No matter your style or aesthetic, Ever Lasting has a huge selection of bedding, we're sure you'll find something you love. ♡ Don't forget to share your progress and room makeovers with us by using #EverLastingMakeover and tagging us @EverLastingFabric.

Anything we missed?

Find more answers and tips on our FAQs page or contact us for more help :)


To read more inspo blog. To shop our new arrivals.

♡ Don't forget to share your progress and room makeovers with us by using #EverLastingMakeover #EverLastingFabric and tagging us @EverLastingFabric.

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