As a sophomore in college, I have gotten myself into situations before where I say to myself, “Dang, I wish I had that!” So, I’ve compiled a list of things that I have forgotten in the past to help you in the present. Some of these things may be no-brainers, but embarrassingly enough, I’ve forgotten them. Or, some of these items will be totally unexpected and you’ll realize you need them after all. Either way, I hope this list helps you and can prevent future disasters.
- Brita water filter
I will admit, freshmen year I did not need a water filter, but that was because there was a water fountain right next to my room. This year, though, I found that a water filter would be extremely handy as there is no water fountain near me. So, this item depends on your living space, but clean filtered water in general is a nice thing to have! Also, they’re pretty handy for when you wake up in the middle of the night just wanting nice, cold water and you don’t want to walk all the way to the water fountain.
2. Water bottle
On the topic of water, I think investing in a good water bottle is a must. I currently own the Sip by S’well 15 oz. water bottle. This bottle is $10 cheaper than the original S’well bottles, but are just as effective. I personally use my water bottle every day during the school year. Not only is the bottle environmentally friendly, but it keeps your water cold and is a company owned and run by women!
3. Umbrella
This one may be a no brainer, but this is one of the items that I have forgotten this year. Some mornings I wake up to go to the gym or to class it’s pouring! So I have to run to wherever I’m going and it’s super inconvenient, not to mention the fact that I’m usually soaked by the end of it. Before this sucky situation happens to you, get a good and sturdy umbrella. During my freshman year I had an umbrella, but it was super cheap and broke after the first few times I used it. Make sure it’s one that will last!
4. Versatile jacket
One thing that I’ve found as a must for my college closet is a jacket that is comfortable, cheap and can go with almost any outfit. You never know when it’s going to be a cold night going out and you don’t want to worry about if your jacket works with your outfit. I currently own a light blue denim jacket by Old Navy. It’s one of my most worn items in my closet and it’s a total staple.
5. Silverware
Don’t go out and buy a full set of silverware unless you’re living in an apartment and have your own kitchen, but just get a few forks, knives and spoons. Whether you have leftovers, takeout or want a bowl of cereal at 2 a.m., it’s gonna suck when you realize you have nothing to eat it with. Just bring a few from home and you’ll be good to go!
6. Bathrobe
If you are living in a dorm with communal bathrooms, you’re probably going to want a bathrobe. Now this isn’t particularly necessary, but if you don’t feel comfortable walking down your dorm hallway with just a towel covering you, or if you don’t want to bring your clothes into the bathroom, a bathrobe is a nice option. The one I have is from TJMaxx. It’s blue (my favorite color) with white polkadots on it. Not to mention, it’s really comfortable and soft.
7. Emergen-C
Basically Emergen-C comes in the form of either tablets or packets of vitamin C that you put into your water. Honestly, this has been a life-saver for me. If you feel like you’re getting sick or if the people you hang out with are sick, taking one of these in the morning can change the game. Being in such close living spaces, especially in dorms, it’s easy for sickness to spread. DayQuil, NyQuil and AirBorne are great as well!
8. Vacuum
This is one step to adulthood: Getting your own vacuum. Most likely than not, you will spill something on your floor and you’ll need a vacuum. Or, time will progress and your dorm room floor will get dirtier by the day. I suggest getting a handheld vacuum that you can easily store and won’t take up too much space. It’s not fun walking around in your own filth, feel crumbs under your feet or see dust bunnies pile up. So before this happens, get a vacuum!
9. Old shoes
Not everyone goes out in college and that’s fine. But, if you decide you want to, I recommend getting a pair of cheap shoes or bring a pair from home that you don’t mind getting dirty. Let me tell you, I have gone to house parties before and have gotten my shoes that I usually wear to class completely trashed. Most of the time, the floors at house parties are sticky and gross from beer and what not, and you don’t want to be walking in that with your favorite pair of heels. I recommend getting a pair of Vans, Converse or black booties that you don’t mind getting a bit scruffed up.
10. Blanket
Obviously, you need bedding in college, but one thing you might not think of to pack is an extra blanket you don’t mind getting a bit dirty. You never know when you’re going to want to go to an outdoor sporting event and you need a blanket to sit on when the grass isn’t the dryest. You might need a blanket to get cozy in the dorm lounge when everyone is watching the latest American Horror Story episode, or just to get comfortable in your room without messing up your bed. Trust me, bring an extra blanket.