ULTIMATE COLLEGE PACKING LIST: ESSENTIAL ITEMS FOR COLLEGE SUCCESS

When I first received my college acceptance letter, my immediate thought was all about dorm shopping. The excitement of moving onto campus was palpable! However, packing and figuring out what to bring can quickly become overwhelming. You’ve probably scoured countless college packing lists and Pinterest boards by now. While some lists are thorough, they can include items you may not actually need (bed risers, for instance, are rarely essential). After spending the past three years living in dorms, I’ve figured out exactly what’s necessary and what’s not. Below, I’ve put together a detailed list of must-haves, items you might find useful, and things you can buy once you arrive. I’ve also included a list of things you should avoid bringing to college. You can thank me later!

DORM ROOM ITEMS

BEDDING

  • 2 Pillows and Pillowcases: Essential for comfort and support.
  • 1 or 2 Decorative Pillows (Optional): For added style and comfort.
  • Duvet Cover: Easier to wash than a comforter and keeps your duvet clean.
  • Twin XL Sheet Set: Ensure it fits your dorm’s extra-long bed.
  • Mattress Cover: Protects the mattress from spills and unknown previous use.
  • Mattress Pad: Adds extra comfort to often uncomfortable college beds.
  • Throw Blanket: For extra warmth and coziness.

STORAGE

  • Charging 3-Drawer Cart on Wheels: Doubles as a nightstand with ample storage and a built-in charger. Durable and long-lasting.
  • Under-Bed Storage Drawers: Maximize space by storing items underneath your bed. Adjustable bed height is ideal.

DINING

  • Water Filter: For cleaner, healthier drinking water. I recommend the LARQ bottle, which cleans itself and has a great filter.
  • Utensils: Bring 2 of each – forks, knives, spoons, etc.
  • Plates: 2 to 4 should suffice.
  • Bowls
  • Glasses and Mugs
  • Microwave-Safe Food Containers
  • Reusable Water Bottle
  • Electric Kettle
  • Chip Clips
  • Ziploc Bags
  • Coffee Maker: A single-serve Keurig is compact and easy to use.
  • Mini Fridge: If your school doesn’t provide one.
  • Microwave: Check if your school provides one; otherwise, discuss with your roommate.
  • Blender: A compact one like the Magic Bullet is ideal if allowed.
  • Toaster: Verify if allowed by your school.

ROOM ITEMS

  • Desk Lamp: A model with storage and a charging station is practical.
  • Organizers: For makeup, desk supplies, etc., but don’t overdo it.
  • Bedside Fan: Check if air conditioning is available in your hall.
  • Laundry Basket
  • Full-Length Mirror: A basic, inexpensive mirror will do; transporting mirrors can be tricky.
  • Power Strip
  • Hangers: Slim hangers save closet space.
  • Shoe Organizer
  • Steamer: Useful for keeping clothes wrinkle-free, especially if you’re in a sorority.
  • Sewing Kit
  • Makeup Mirror
  • Calendar

BATHROOM

  • Shower Caddy
  • Shoes for the Shower
  • Toothbrush Holder
  • Bath Towels (2)
  • Bath Mat: If you have a private bathroom.
  • Toilet Paper: Provided if in a shared bathroom; otherwise, bring your own.
  • Bathroom Cleaner
  • Toilet Scrubber
  • Hand Soap
  • Robe
  • Loofah
  • Shower Cap

DORM ROOM DECOR

  • String Lights
  • Sunset Lamp: Affordable and adds a warm glow.
  • Photos/Posters/Canvases
  • Command Strips: Use cautiously to avoid wall damage and potential fines.
  • Cork Board: Great for displaying photos and notes.
  • Push Pins
  • Wall Hooks
  • Succulent Plant: Low-maintenance and adds a touch of greenery.
  • Rug

SCHOOL ITEMS

  • Backpack
  • Calculator
  • Planner or Google Calendar: For keeping track of assignments and events.
  • Stapler
  • Index Cards
  • Notebooks
  • Pens, Pencils, Sharpies: Everything you need for taking notes.
  • Scissors
  • Scotch Tape
  • Desk Organizer
  • Tote Bag
  • Binder
  • Folders
  • Sticky Notes
  • Laptop
  • Laptop Charger
  • Flash Drive
  • Headphones
  • Portable Speaker (Optional)
  • Camera (Optional)

CLEANING

  • Disinfecting wipes
  • Trash bags
  • Trash can
  • Laundry detergent
  • Dryer sheets
  • Paper towels
  • Vacuum
  • Broom/dustpan
  • Stain remover

PERSONAL ITEMS

Quick Tip: If you’re tight on space after packing, you can always pick up essentials like shampoo and body lotion at a local drugstore near your college once you’ve moved in.

  • Hair Dryer
  • Straightener/Curling Iron
  • Shampoo & Conditioner
  • Hair Products
  • Body Wash, Razors, Soap
  • Deodorant
  • Toothbrush & Toothpaste
  • Makeup
  • Sunscreen
  • Nail Clippers & Files
  • Nail Polish & Nail Polish Remover
  • Tweezers
  • Q-Tips
  • Pads & Tampons
  • Perfume
  • Body Lotion & Skincare
  • Ear Plugs: Dorms can be noisy at night, so having a good pair of earplugs can be quite helpful.

OTHER ESSENTIALS

  • Umbrella
  • Luggage/duffel bag
  • Lock for the gym
  • Medicine – like cough syrups, Advil, and others.

CONCLUSION

Packing for college can be overwhelming, but with a well-planned strategy, you can ensure you have everything you need for a successful academic year. By following the ultimate college packing list outlined in this guide, you can efficiently organize your belongings and minimize stress. Remember to prioritize essentials, consider your dorm’s amenities, and pack with versatility in mind. With a thoughtfully packed suitcase, you’ll be ready to embark on your college journey with confidence.

The 11 Best Travel Cosmetic Bags in 2023

Something about packing your weekend backpack or carry-on bag with your travel cosmetics kit really makes you feel eager to go on vacation. Travel cosmetic bags can keep you organized whether you’re leaving for your honeymoon or a little overnight vacation to meet friends for dinner. But not all travel cosmetic bags are made equal. While some choose a hard-sided, extra-large bag, others adore a compact fabric pouch that stores only a few necessities. With our list of the 11 best travel cosmetic bags, we can assist you if you’ve had trouble choosing the right bag for yourself.

Lay-n-Go Cosmo

The Lay-n-Go Cosmo is a brilliant concept for those who can’t tolerate spending hours rummaging through their cosmetic bag in quest of that one, little eye pencil. It changes into a travel bag to keep your belongings organized while you’re on the go, but when you get to your destination, it unfolds into a 20-inch mat so you can see everything at once. There is a raised lip to prevent rolling, a zipped pocket for secure keeping, and an integrated elastic strap that serves as a practical brush holder. And in case of spillage, it can be machine-washed.

Everyone adores this purse. The ingenious conversion to lay everything flat makes it simple to find what you need, even when you’re on the road and without a counter. It’s ideal for people who don’t have a lot of extra room for a cosmetic bag. However, after a few usages, the drawstring begins to sag. If you don’t use them too frequently, this might be prevented. 

Saie Lilac Oversized Makeup Bag

You can carry anything in this large-capacity cosmetic bag. The bag, which is made of vegan leather in the brand’s characteristic lilac color, has a strong exterior, a single quick zipper, and plenty of inside room so you can carry it wherever you go. Perfectly enough to include all of your routine’s faves, yet stylish and portable enough to throw in a bag or tote and leave.

Customers have given Saie’s Oversized Makeup Bag a mix of favorable and unfavorable feedback. For several customers, the bag’s roomy design and ability to accommodate all of their cosmetic necessities make it ideal for travel. Additionally, they like that the bag is constructed of eco-friendly materials and is durable. Yet, some clients claim that the bag is overly large and heavy, making it challenging to carry. 

Peachloft Cosmetic Bag

The outside of this premium travel cosmetic bag is water-resistant to prevent the contents from getting wet. It is constructed of PU leather fabric. With a steel wire placed at the aperture and a big capacity design, accessing the contents is made simpler. The bag is multipurpose. It can be used to hold toiletries, cosmetics, jewelry, gadget accessories, and more. It features a handy, long-lasting handle, and the zipper is a useful, user-friendly design.

Peachloft cosmetic bag reviews on most online shopping websites are quite positive as this bag can carry most of your things with you while not causing you any trouble. The case is very pretty and closes well so as to not disturb all your stuff inside. If you want to maintain its pretty look, you should be extra careful because it’s hard to clean any stain on the outside and the zipper might be difficult to unzip sometimes.

Lululemon Go Getter Pouch

The Go Getter Pouch from Lululemon is perfect for road trips or gym workouts because it is made of water-repellent nylon. This compact purse is available in pastel mint and traditional black hues and is great for organizing little items like hair ties or travel-size deodorant.

This pouch is the ideal size for a variety of items, including cosmetics, skincare, and hygiene. This Lululemon bag is all you need for anyone seeking a bag that can go a long way. But if you see it in person, you could be surprised by its size, so if you don’t have much room for another bag, think about getting this.

Monstina Double-Layer Makeup Bag

This amazing cosmetic bag with compartments is all you need for a short day trip. You can conveniently put a medium-sized eyeshadow palette, a few beauty brushes, and the rest of your go-to goods in the bag. It has three layers, which include pockets on each side and elastic brush slots. This bag will last you on many journeys before you need to wash it because it is also water-resistant and simple to clean owing to its faux-leather finish.

This bag is rather tiny, therefore not all brushes will fit inside. Still, if cost is your first priority, you may pick this one because, in comparison to other items on the market, it is rather affordable. 

Bosidu Hanging Travel Toiletry Bag

This hanging makeup bag is surprisingly roomy and, in all honesty, is just perfect for keeping things organized in a hotel or Airbnb bathroom. To hang this portable organizer on the back of a door, a towel hook, or in your closet, just unzip the sides to reveal a hook. Four waterproof and transparent compartments for your toothbrush, makeup, face oil, etc. are accessible via the center.

Particularly practical are the internal waterproof vinyl pockets, which make it simple to keep everything tidy and dry. This functionality is crucial for travelers who bring goods like water bottles or toiletries that are likely to leak or spill. Travelers may feel secure knowing that their things are protected from moisture and spills with these pockets. It’s important to note, though, that several testers have complained about the zipper’s propensity for breaking. Despite the fact that this is a problem, it’s crucial to remember that not all testers have run across it, and it might not be a deal-breaker for everyone.

Herschel Chapter Travel Kit.

With this adaptable Herschel Chapter Travel Kit, it’s difficult to know where to begin. It’s quite reasonably priced and has a roomy size that allows you to store your phone, keys, lipsticks, concealers, brushes, and even a couple of palettes inside. There is at least one of these bags’ 15 eye-catching colors and designs that will suit you, and it also features a very practical handle.

Some customers appreciate the bag’s spacious interior, convenient size, and durable construction. They also find the waterproof interior lining and sturdy hook to be useful features. However, some customers have reported issues with the bag’s zipper breaking easily, which can be frustrating and inconvenient. Though this is concerning, it’s vital to remember that not all testers have encountered this issue, and it might not be a deal-breaker for everyone.

Impressions Vanity Co. Hello Kitty Faux Leather Makeup Bag

For admirers of Hello Kitty, the Impressions Vanity Co. Hello Kitty Faux Leather cosmetics Bag is a chic and adorable cosmetics bag. It is composed of sturdy, cleanable imitation leather of the highest caliber. The bag is a cute and cheerful accessory because of its pink and white pattern and the distinctive Hello Kitty character on the front.

Customers praise the bag’s ideal size, detachable partitions, and premium design and heartily endorse it to others. They are particularly impressed by the bag’s stylish and durable design, well-thought-out areas for storing cosmetics, and general high quality. Overall, it appears like the Herschel Men’s Chapter Travel Bag is a superb option for anybody searching for a well-made and premium travel bag.

Mark & Graham Concourse Vegan Leather Cosmetic Case

The case is both functional and fashionable, and the synthetic leather mimics the genuine thing. When you hang the spacious bag over a hook in the bathroom, you can see all of your toiletries at a glance thanks to two internal zipped compartments with see-through lining. 

For those looking for a practical and stylish alternative, this travel bag is a good choice. Its inside compartments and hanging possibilities are practical elements for keeping things organized, and its contemporary design adds a fashionable touch. Yet prospective customers should be mindful of the additional expense of customization and the white color’s sensitivity to stains.

AWAY The Cosmetics Bag

This budget-friendly choice comes in a variety of colors, including black, rose gold, gold, pink, a floral pattern, a marble design, and more. It also has a mesh pocket to keep things organized, an elastic brush slot, and plenty of storage space. For a cosmetic addict who can’t travel without her eyelash curler, a beloved set of makeup travel brushes, and a couple of lip glosses, the outside is waterproof and simple to wash clean. Also included is a built-in mirror. 

This bag is perfect if you enjoy having all of your cosmetics and toiletries in one convenient case that is both fashionable to show and simple to travel with. Because the cosmetic brush part is removable, this purse may be used by anybody. You don’t have to worry about wet days because it also includes a nylon body that is water-resistant. However, personalization costs extra and it can still get collapsed even when it’s structured.

Calpak Large Clear Cosmetics Case

For those looking for a convenient and fashionable method to keep their toiletries and cosmetics organized while traveling, the Calpak Large Clear Cosmetics Case is a popular option. This case has a zipped clasp to keep goods safe and is constructed of transparent plastic, making it simple to see what’s within. The size of this case is one of its distinguishing qualities. This makes it a fantastic alternative for those who want to have a lot of options when it comes to their cosmetics and toiletries, or for longer vacations.

For people who want to keep their belongings organized while traveling, this cosmetics bag is a unique choice. It has two clear sides that make it simple for consumers to access and separate their merchandise. Additionally, it comes in three different sizes, giving it a flexible choice for those with various needs. The fact that this is the priciest cosmetic bag on the list should also be noted. Even if the extra features and distinctive style can make the price worthwhile for some, it might not be a sensible choice for people on a tight budget.

The key to a smart cosmetic bag is organization. It should accommodate all of your supplies and be simple to clean in case you encounter a messy situation when unpacking. You may discover cosmetic bags on our list that have been endorsed by beauty enthusiasts for use at work, on the road, and for other situations.