The Ultimate 2025 Dorm Room Packing List (+ Free Printable Guide)

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Make shopping for dorm room essentials easier! Use our FREE and printable college dorm checklist for students!

college dorm room supplies on display in Target store

Have a kid heading to college? Download and print this free college dorm checklist filled with all the must-have dorm room essentials you’ll need for move-in day! While each campus has its own set of amenities and rules, having a comprehensive list like this makes it much easier to keep track of everything you need. Whether you’re shopping or packing, this checklist helps ensure you won’t forget any important items!

printable college packing list

To customize this college dorm checklist:

  • Select only the college essentials that you want from the list below.
  • Click on the Print icon at the bottom of this post.
  • Print a list with just those items!
  • Use it as a shopping list or college packing list and check off your items.

Now if only paying for college were this easy! 😅

Dorm room seating and storage on display at Target

Where can I find the best college dorm essentials?

While we never say no to a great store (or sale), check your local Dollar Tree, Walmart, Target, Kohl’s, and of course, Amazon. Some stores will even ship your dorm essentials directly to your college!

Hip Tip: Check with your specific college or university about what is (and is not) allowed, what is (and is not) provided, and what to expect when you get there. Many schools even provide the dimensions for dorm rooms, beds, and windows to give you a good idea of the sizes you’ll need!


Bed & bath dorm room essentials:

aisle of Room Essentials Sheets at Target

Bed risers or blocks (for more under-bed space)

Toiletries (shampoo, toothpaste, etc)


Office & desk college essentials:

womans hand holding a desk lamp

Printer (if not using computer lab/print center on campus)

Printer paper (if bringing a printer)

Camera (if not using cell phone)

School supplies (pens, pencils, paper, etc)


Dorm room essentials:

Get ready for college with this back to school moving checklist – assortment of window and desk fans


Dorm cleaning & laundry supplies:

Arm & Hammer Laundry Products in a Walgreen's cart

Cleaning supplies (dish soap, etc)

Quarters (if no laundry card)


Dorm kitchen & household items:

A woman holding 3 water bottles

Travel coffee mug (for taking to class)

Hot pot or coffee-maker (if allowed)

Microwave (if allowed)

Small fridge (if allowed)


Other important documents:

checkbook and pen closeup

Insurance cards

Credit/Debit/Prepaid card

List of emergency contacts

Social Security card

Bank info/checks


Miscellaneous college essentials:

Duracell AA Batteries which are on the college dorm checklist


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About the writer:

Chelsey is a writer & photographer with both a Bachelor's and Master's Degree from Arizona State University. She holds 3+ years blogging experience not only for Hip2Save, but various other publications in the health, lifestyle, and education field.


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