Moving into a dorm or apartment for college is a very stressful time. This stress is elevated by questions like “Do I need this?” and “Did I forget to buy something?” running through your mind. It’s also hard to buy all the things that you forgot after move-in day, especially when there are things you need that you never thought of in the first place. That’s why I’m going to save you right now! Here are some things that you should put on your college shopping list now, before you regret not having them later.
1. Portable ChargerÂ
A portable charger is the most useful purchase I made for college. It is not only something that you should get for the purpose of being able to always enjoy your phone or AirPods, but also for safety reasons. Always having a portable charger on you makes walking around such a big campus all day feel more enjoyable because you will never have to worry about being unable to contact someone, not having music or not getting a photo of Oliver Rioux walking around campus. I’ve found that the more compact ones are preferred by most people because they are easiest to carry around. You can find good quality portable chargers at Walmart for as low as $20 and be set for years.
2. Stain Remover Pen
When you accidentally get food on your favorite shirt, but you can’t go back to your room because you have classes or other places to be, a stain remover pen will save your shirt. It is the best way to start removing a stain and keep it from drying into your shirt. Stain remover pens are a useful tool for most people, but an essential for college students – especially with events or other places you need to look your best.
3. Medical Kit
Having a medical kit prepared ahead of time is extremely important so that when you get injured or sick, you already have the necessary supplies to take care of yourself. Here are some things you should consider keeping in your medical kit: bandages, antibiotic ointment or cream, ibuprofen, acetaminophen, Mucinex or DayQuil, cough drops, tissues and some form of vitamins. Keeping these things in your space will make you ready to take care of yourself without having to get out of bed and travel to the store for medicine.
4. Mattress Topper
If your bed is not a part of your own furnishing, then a mattress topper is an essential. Mattress toppers keep you from having to sleep on a bed that many other people have been on, and where countless bacteria fester. They will also make a rock-hard bed comfortable so that you can get a good night’s sleep. You can find good quality, affordable mattress toppers at Walmart, Target or TJ Maxx!
5. Disinfecting Wipes
Disinfecting wipes are a quick and easy way to clean and disinfect surfaces in your room. Keeping them handy saves space by not needing to have a bunch of different cleaning supplies. Plus, disinfecting wipes are disposable, so they don’t require any extra steps after using.
6. Long Phone Charger
A long phone charger is essential for those library tables that are too far from outlets or the weird and inconveniently placed ones in your room. If you have a long phone charger, then you are more likely to be able to comfortably charge your phone wherever you may be. Personally, my dorm has beds that are very high up, and at first, I was worried about being able to charge my phone while in my bed. However, I remembered that I have a seven-foot-long phone charger that would work perfectly with it.Â
7. Jean Skirts/Shorts
In the sweltering heat of Florida, a go-to pair of jean shorts or a jean skirt is essential. They make the heat more bearable and go with almost anything, so you can easily put together outfits. Whether it’s for class, exploring nature trails or game day at The Swamp, having a pair of jean shorts or a skirt will make an easy, cute and comfortable fit.
8. Comfortable Tennis Shoes
While the University of Florida is a walkable school, you are going to want to wear comfortable shoes while doing it. Making sure to get some simple and cute tennis shoes that you can pair with any outfit is a must. Don’t let your feet get blisters in the first week; get a comfortable pair of tennis shoes now to prevent them.
There are some college essentials that may not cross your mind when you are moving in, but you will quickly realize that you need them. Not having these things can lead to a hassle when trying to get them. If you make sure to put these eight essentials on your school shopping list, then rest assured that you have a much less stressful first few weeks.