5 College Move-In Day Essentials That Often Get Overlooked!

College, college, college! All around the country right now, freshmen are getting ready for the big move to university life, and we know the feeling of being jittery, nervous, excited, or pumped about move-in day. We also know the feeling of making a list and checking it twice just to realize Mom needs to come back and bring the deodorant. Okay, maybe most of us aren’t forgetting to pack our deodorant, but there are many items that for sure go overlooked and are essential for college. We’ve compiled a short list of important items that you don’t want to forget. Be sure to add the following items to your dorm room checklist!

1. Mattress Topper/Pad 

After a long day of classes, your dorm will be calling your name. Your bed is the perfect solution for all that walking across campus, sitting through long lectures, and carrying heavy textbooks on your back. But, nothing's worse than a bed as hard as a rock (unless you’re the Flintstones). Unfortunately, the mattresses that colleges provide are not Casper mattresses, so you must come prepared with additional support for your body. The constant twisting and turning to find a comfy spot can be dreadful, trust us, we know. Mattress toppers and mattress pads come in clutch, and you shouldn’t step foot on campus without them. A mattress topper can often mimic a mattress, except it’s not as thick as a mattress. Both serve the purpose of providing support, cushion, and, most importantly, comfort. But with those college mattresses, you can barely find comfort, which is why you’ll need the mattress topper. Mattress pads also come in handy; they provide comfort, and they will be especially necessary so you won’t find yourself getting caught up with damage fees at the end of the semester. Mattress pads protect the mattress from spills, dirt, dust, or any damage that can occur. Both mattress pads and mattress toppers can be found at retailers like Walmart, Macy's, Amazon, Costco, IKEA, and many more. 

2. Shower Shoes

You may have never put shoes on while showering in a home bathroom, but if you have, good for you; it sounds like you’re prepped for college. For those who haven’t, I know it sounds ridiculous, but taking a shower with shoes on will be your new norm.  Most college students/graduates can tell you all about their yucky experiences in communal bathrooms. Germs spread like wildfire on college campuses, and the last thing you want to do is place your bare feet in the shower and catch fungus. That’s no fun for a young and turnt college student who should be living their best life. So make sure you have some sandals/flip-flops that can be used as shower shoes and also fungus protectors. You should also have shower shoes to save yourself from the embarrassment of falling in the shower. No one wants to go flying in the air because they slipped on Dove soap suds. Let’s just prevent both of these things altogether. A pair of flip-flops or sandals can be found at your nearest Dollar Store, Old Navy, or Target, and they certainly will be a lifesaver.

3. Outlet Power Strip

Finding an outlet close to your comfort zone can be exhausting. It’s like the outlets are always too far or your cord is just a little bit short of the length you need it to be. The worst is when you’re trying to roll over to the other side of the bed and your charger unplugs. Ugh, the ultimate vibe killer. The great news is that this can be easily avoided with the help of a power strip. You can plug your power strip in and have multiple devices, appliances, or other wall-powered items charging at one time. Oftentimes, colleges have limited outlets anyway, so a power strip will be super helpful. But, just to be sure, check on your college’s website to ensure that they will allow power strips in your dorm room. Many colleges do not allow extension cords and multi-plug adapters. However, if your college does allow for an outlet power strip, don’t forget to pack it in your bag. If you are looking to purchase one, you can find one at retailers like Home Depot, Five Below, and Walmart.

4. Door Sweeps

Door sweeps are an underrated flex in college, and if nobody put you on game, just know we did. With all of the moving-in and getting settled, there are bound to be bugs and creepy crawlers that can slip in through the crack at the bottom of your door. With all of the boxes, papers, and people coming from all types of environments, bugs are inevitable. In order to prevent them from getting into your room, make sure to pack a door sweep. While that may be one of the main reasons for having a door sweep, door sweeps aren’t just used to prevent crawling creatures from entering from under your door. Door sweeps can be used to stop your door from slamming hard, and, of course, if you’re coming in late from one of those good ol' college parties, you don’t want to wake up your roommate. Door sweeps can also be used to quiet down the sound going on at the end of the hall from the group of friends who think the night before your exam is the perfect time for karaoke. They can also be used to block out the light that may be affecting your ability to sleep. Amazon sells many different kinds, and I’m sure you will find one to suit your needs. 

5. Umbrella

Getting caught in a rainstorm while trying to go from one class building to the next is no fun; it’s a bummer. You’re late, all soaked, and you sound like a rubber ducky while walking the halls to class. You’re out of breath from running and look like you’ve survived a zombie apocalypse, but nope, it was just that vicious downpour of rain. The realization sets in after, and you think to yourself, "How have I been surviving on campus without an umbrella?" An umbrella is one of the top items that goes over many college students' heads. Many students forget to plan for the future when it comes to the weather. If you want to make sure you’re extra prepared, bringing a poncho is an extra step you can take to stay ahead of the game. Especially if you live in a warmer climate, where hurricane season also falls within the first few months of moving in. To save yourself the hassle, make sure to pack an umbrella.

If you made it this far, you’re all set for the semester! Good Luck!