Packing for college is all about balance—bringing what you need while also leaving room for what you’ll collect throughout the year. That’s where this list comes in! We’ve curated The Ultimate College Packing List to help you stay organized, comfortable and ready for anything from your first day to finals week.
Bedding & Linens
Be sure to confirm your bed size before buying anything! Most dorm beds at Merrimack College are Twin XL. Also consider the local weather; it gets cold in New England so choose your bedding accordingly. Pro Tip: bring 2 sets of sheets and pillow cases to make laundry easier and ensure you always have a clean set available!
- Sheets
- Pillow cases
- Comforter
- Extra Blanket
- Assorted Towel Sizes
- Mattress protector (optional)
- Mattress topper (optional)
Personal Hygiene
Depending on your room assignment, you might share a bathroom with one or more roommates. Therefore, it’s important to find a shower caddy or something that fits all your toiletries for easy transport and organization. Pro Tip: don’t skip the shower shoes! You’ll thank us later…
- Shower caddy/carrier
- Shower shoes/flip-flops
- Shampoo & conditioner
- Body wash/soap
- Face wash & skincare
- Toothbrush & toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Hair products
- Lotion/moisturizer
- Shaving needs
- Medications/First Aid Kit
- Extra contacts, glasses etc
Clothing & Laundry
Since climates can change drastically, make sure you are packing comfortable and weather appropriate clothes for all occasions: attending class, hanging out in your dorm, walking around campus, going out on weekends, attending networking events and more. Pro Tip: find a laundry bag with straps, wheels or pockets to make this chore a little easier!
- Everyday basics
- Professional outfits
- Dressy outfits
- Seasonal items (rain, snow, summer etc)
- Shoes, boots, sneakers etc
- Pajamas & loungewear
- Undergarments & socks
- Laundry detergent & dryer sheets
- Laundry bin/bag
Dorm Room Essentials
These are extra items that may be useful or fun to have, but you can also discuss with roommates beforehand to divide and conquer things that can be shared! Pro Tip: try to find items that are multi-purpose, like an ottoman that can be used for extra seating, a step stool, and additional storage space!
- Planner/Calendar
- Storage bins
- Command hooks/strips
- Portable fan
- Surge protector/power strips
- Headphones/earbuds
- Desk lamp
- Ottoman
- Small area rugs
- Portable speaker
- Batteries
- Snacks
- Reusable water bottle
- Broom/Swiffer
- Cleaning supplies
- Trash can/bags
- Hangers
- Mini Fridge
- Microwave
Use this list as a foundation and remember: everyone’s needs are different! Find ways to personalize it to match your habits, hobbies and daily routine so you can feel at home in your dorm room.
Want a sneak peek at your future dorm space? Check out our room tours!
@merrimackcollege Dorm Tour: Ash Centre Suite #Merrimack #Warriors #MerrimackCollege #Dorms #DormTour #StudentLife ♬ original sound - Merrimack College
@merrimackcollege Replying to @boo_magoo Dorm Tour: Ash Centre Double #Merrimack #Warriors #MerrimackCollege #Dorms #DormTour #StudentLife ♬ original sound - Merrimack College
