LIFE

Move-in day is right around the corner—which means it's time for dorm planning to begin! There are tons of videos and articles floating around the Internet listing items you *absolutely need* for your dorm room. However, speaking from experience, these "essential" items often get thrown to the back of the closet, only to be dug up at the end of the year without having ever been used. Luckily, we've gathered all the best finds that are truly essential for a sucessful dorm living experience. Read on for 13 essentials you'll definitely want to bring with you this semester. 

Bedside caddy

Amazon, $10

Extra storage is *everything* in a tiny dorm room—and a great way to store some smaller necessities is with a bedside caddy. A bedside caddy is super convenient for storing stuff you use constantly. The best part? You don't need to climb up and down your lofted bed everytime you need something! If a nightstand isn't pratical or available, then a bedside caddy is the way to go.

Mattress topper

Amazon, $84

If you enjoy quality sleep, then you are definitely going to want a mattress topper for your dorm bed. Dorm room mattresses are typically pretty thin and not at all comfortable to sleep on bare. This memory foam topper from Amazon is sure to help you get some much needed rest after a long day. 

Makeup mirror

Target, $40

Even if you aren't someone who does a full glam look everyday, a makeup mirror is still super helpful for getting ready when the bathroom is all the way down the hall. They're fairly compact and can sit perfectly on your desk without taking up much space. This one from Target also has an LED function, allowing you to use it at any time of day.

Photo display 

Dormify, $24

Seeing pictures of your friends and family everyday when you're living away from home for the first time can be super important. If you are worried about homesickness—or just want some cute room decor—then you *definitely* need a photo display.  This particular one from Dormify allows you to hang lots photos and is sure to make your dorm room feel like home. 

Desk lamp

Target, $15

A desk lamp is essential for late night study sessions when you don't want to disturb your roommate(s). They give you *just* enough light that you can focus on your work and  your roomies can still catch some Zzzs. This lamp from Target comes in the cutest colors to match any dorm room theme and is sure to go to good use.

Full length mirror

Amazon, $45

A full length mirror is super important for checking your fit before leaving your room. Whether you're going to the career fair, to class or even just the dining hall, it's always nice to see how your full look came together. This mirror is great because it hangs over your door, helping you to save space. Yay!

Power strip 

Amazon, $14

This one might seem self-explanatory, but it really is one of the most essential items for a dorm room. Dorms are (obviously) very small, meaning they typically aren't equipped with many outlets. If you have own lot of electronics, you are *def* going to want a power strip. Even if it seems like you don't have many items with plug-ins, it still might be nice to pack one for move-in day, just in case. 

Lap desk

Best Buy, $18.99

Lap desks are a convenient way to get some extra study hours in, even after you've left the library for the night. Whether you're quickly submitting an assignment on your laptop before bed or reviewing a study guide before tomorrow's big quiz, lap desks allow you to work comfortably from your own bed. This lap desk from Best Buy comes in a super cute shade of pink and keeps your laptop safe and secure.

Jewelry organizer

Target, $18

No one likes tangled jewelry, especially when you're running late and looking for that perfect accessory. Having a simple jewelry organizer keeps your fave pieces all in one place and prevents necklaces from becoming knotty. This organizer from Target is perfect for necklaces, bracelets, rings and certain kinds of earrings. So cute!

Portable charger 

Amazon, $29.99

This one is an absolute must for any girl on the go. Keeping a portable charger in your backpack or purse allows you to stay plugged in wherever your day takes you. Portable chargers are affordable and lightweight, and they can be total lifesavers in a pinch. Just remember to charge them at the end of each day!

Neon light sign

Dormify, $24

Decorating your dorm is a fun way to express yourself and personalize your space. One of the cutest pieces we found to brighten up your room is the neon LED sign, as shown in the pic above. Although designs vary, these lights are totally affordable and the *perfect* way to add a pop of light and color to your living space this semester. We're especially loving these lights from Dormify. So cute!

Body pillow 

Dormify, $28

Body pillows are the ultimate way to make your bed instantly cozy and way more comfortable. Plus, they're great to keep in the space between your bed and the wall, which can sometimes have a gap. Body pillows are also perfect for snuggling up to after a long day of classes. Pick one in your favorite color and find some cute throw pillows to match!

Plastic shower caddy 

Bed Bath & Beyond, $3

When you're picking out a shower caddy, plastic is definitely the way to go. Plastic is waterproof and less likely to become moldy after months of showers. Although caddies are relatively inexpensive and easy to replace, it's still important to choose one that keeps your stuff safe and organized. This way, you'll be able to keep up that morning skin routine and *still* have time to get coffee before class. 

In need of more dorm inspiration? Check out this article on how to create your dream dorm room here!

Slider image: @dormify | All GIFs via Giphy 

by Lena Genovese and Paige Mountain | 8/20/2021