Move-in day is quickly approaching, as are summer sales. Heading off to college is an exciting milestone, and move-in day marks the official start of your LVC adventure. Whether you’re living a few hours from home or across the country, arriving prepared can make all the difference in settling into your new space comfortably. From dorm room essentials to personal items you might not think of until it’s too late, this comprehensive packing list will help you stay organized and ensure a smooth transition into college life.

Here’s everything you’ll want to bring with you to make your dorm feel like home and your first year a success.

Dorm Room Essentials

• Bedding (Twin XL, except Vickroy Dorm—standard twin size):
  • Sheets
  • Comforter or duvet
  • Pillows (2–3)
  • Blanket
  • Mattress protector
  • Mattress topper or foam pad
  • Bed risers (if desired)
• Laundry:
  • Laundry basket or bag
  • Detergent & dryer sheets (liquid detergent is preferred)
  • Stain remover
• Storage:
  • Under-bed bins
  • Hangers (non-slip and regular)
  • Over-the-door hooks or organizers
  • Closet bins or Hanging Closet Organizer
• Lighting & Decor:
  • Desk lamp or floor lamp
  • String lights or posters (must use removable adhesives)
  • Small rug
• Cleaning Supplies:
  • Disinfecting wipes
  • Small broom & dustpan or handheld vacuum
  • Paper towels
  • Trash can and trash bags

Bathroom & Toiletries

• Shower Gear:
  • Shower caddy
  • Flip-flops/shower shoes
  • Towel set (2–3)
• Toiletries:
  • Shampoo, conditioner, body wash
  • Toothbrush & toothpaste
  • Deodorant, razor, etc.
  • Hairbrush or comb
• Health & Safety:
  • First aid kit
  • Prescription medications (set up mail-order, or find local pharmacy for easy refill)

Kitchen & Snacks

• Mini fridge
• Microwave
• Reusable water bottle & coffee mug
• Dishware:
  • Plates, bowls, cups, silverware (2 each)
  • Can opener & small knife
  • Dish soap & sponge
• Non-perishable snacks:
  • Granola bars, popcorn, trail mix, etc.

School Supplies

• Laptop & charger
• Notebooks & binders
• Pens, pencils, highlighters
• Backpack or tote bag
• Sticky notes, scissors, tape
• Calculator (if needed for your major)
• USB drive or external hard drive
• Extension cord & power strip (with surge protection, a minimum of 6ft is suggested)

Important Documents

• Student ID
• Health insurance card
• Driver’s license or passport
• Banking info / debit card
• Emergency contact list
• Academic schedule

Clothing

• Everyday wear for all seasons
• Formal outfit (interviews, events)
• Gym/workout clothes
• Pajamas and loungewear
• Raincoat, umbrella, boots
• Winter coat, gloves, hat (don’t forget your LVC Beanie)

Electronics

• Phone + charger
• Headphones or earbuds
• Surge protector/power strip
• Alarm clock (if not using phone)

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

• Toolkit or multi-tool
• Command hooks/strips
• Flashlight
• Reusable shopping bags
• Ziplock bags, foil, plastic wrap
• Desk organizer or drawer unit