17 Most Commonly Forgotten Items For College Dorms
- 5 Min Read
- We created a list of the most frequently forgotten college dorm items.
- Every item on the list includes a need vs. want rating score, product recommendations, and helpful student commentary.
- Essential items are indicated by a checkmark and you can click on any item to jump to our review.
Umbrella & Raincoat
Need vs. Want Rating
Products We Recommend
Frequently Asked Questions
Running to class with a backpack over your head is never a fun time, so it’s helpful to have a travel sized umbrella or rain jacket.
Medicine & First Aid Kit
Need vs. Want Rating
Products We Recommend
Frequently Asked Questions
Once or twice a semester a virus will come along and make your college campus look like a scene out of The Walking Dead. College health centers have limited capabilities so you should bring any medication you currently take at home, Advil, cold and flu medicine, and a supply of cough drops.
Air Freshener
Need vs. Want Rating
Products We Recommend
Frequently Asked Questions
A lot of people living in close proximity can make your dorm hallway smell bad at times. Air freshener is an easy way to keep the smell from seeping into your room. Most students use aerosol spray like Febreeze or wall plug-in dispensers. If you want to avoid aerosols, Blue Magic is an amazing all natural and chemical free spray that comes in tons of different scents.
Batteries & Lightbulbs
Need vs. Want Rating
Products We Recommend
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s helpful to have a supply of extra AA and AAA batteries for important electronics like remotes, controllers, and calculators. We recommend buying in bulk for the entire semester since batteries are very expensive when purchased in small packs. You’ll also want to bring a few extra non-halogen light bulbs if you plan on bringing a desk or floor lamp.
Dry Erase Board
& Door Mat/Stop
Need vs. Want Rating
Products We Recommend
Frequently Asked Questions
Leaving old friends behind and heading off to college is nerve-wracking for a lot of students, but it’s also the perfect opportunity for a fresh start. The first few weeks of school are great for meeting new people and making lifelong friends. An easy way to let other students know you’re friendly and outgoing is by having a dry erase board on your door. A lot of people write their names or a welcoming message that encourages floormates to introduce themselves.
Duct Tape, Toolkit,
& Flashlight
Need vs. Want Rating
Products We Recommend
Frequently Asked Questions
A small roll of duct tape will come in handy at some point in time.
Gym/Travel Bag
& Sports Equipment
Need vs. Want Rating
Products We Recommend
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s important for college students to stay active and get at least 2 hours of exercise per week. Students who enjoy going to the gym should consider bringing a gym or drawstring bag to store clothes and personal belongings. You can also use them as a travel bag if you end up visiting friends at different schools.
Card & Board Games
Need vs. Want Rating
Products We Recommend
Frequently Asked Questions
Card and board games aren’t an everyday thing, but they’re great for when you’re bored or want to hangout with friends.
ID's & Documents
Need vs. Want Rating
Products We Recommend
Frequently Asked Questions
Make sure to bring your Driver’s License, Social Security Card, Passport, Insurance Card, and any other important documents you might need. If you have a tendency to lose things consider bringing a small safe to keep your important documents secure. For students who plan on getting a part time job at school these documents are a must.