Packing for college might feel overwhelming when you are starting out, however if you have the right packing list, it can feel a lot less stressful. We want you to be completely prepared for your first year here at Clarkson University, which is why in this post, I will talk about the essentials you will need for college and some bonus tips to help you make the most of your new home away from home!
Dorm Room Essentials
Bedding: Preferably Twin XL bedsheets, pillows and a comforter
Bathroom Supplies: Towels, washcloths and toiletries as well as shower slippers and a shower caddy
Trash Can: Clarkson University provides each room with its own recycling bin; however for other waste you will need to supply your own trash can.
Personal Fan: Optional, but recommended, as residence halls can get warm during the first few weeks of the fall semester.
Storage Bins/Containers: This is a great way to store items and maximize your space as you will be sharing a dorm with a roommate.
Bed Risers: These are optional, but recommended as this is also a great way to maximize your dorm space, you can store a lot of things under your bed.
Desk Lamp: This is mostly for late nights and it is truly better to study under a lamp than just the ceiling lights.
Clothing Storage: Hangers, and a hanging closet organizer are a great way to maximize space in your closet.
School Supplies and Electronics
If you are like me and prefer to take notes the old-fashioned way, I would recommend bringing some stationery items.
Stationery Items: Pens, Pencils, notebooks, sticky notes, highlighters and binders to organize worksheets. For my freshman year, I bought a box of pens and pencils and though I am a junior now and have lost several of them, I still have many left. If you prefer to take notes in a notebook,it would be easier to stock up on these items before coming to college rather than having to buy them again and again.
However, if you use an iPad or something similar to take notes, the same thing applies but you would only need pens and pencils for exams.
Laptop and Charger: If you own a laptop and charger, bring it! It is easier to have a laptop as you can access all of your courses from it and carry it to class; however there are a lot of monitors around campus which can be used by any Clarkson University student at any given time; you can access your courses from there as well.
Smart Power Strip: Helps conserve energy by shutting off power to devices when they’re not in use.
Headphones or Earphones: These are optional, but essential for studying in shared spaces.
Laundry Items
All laundry machines on campus are free and can be used by students, however you would need to bring your own laundry items such as:
Laundry Basket or Bag: It is definitely easier carrying your clothes in a laundry basket or bag. You could try carrying everything in your arms, but dropping your underwear in the hallway isn’t exactly the best way to meet your neighbors.
Detergent and Dryer Sheets: You could bring Tide pods or regular detergent and also dryer sheets.
Sewing Kit: I would recommend bringing a Sewing Kit as it’s a very handy thing to have for quick clothing repairs.
Kitchen and Food Items
Most of your meals would be from campus dining; however having a few items can be helpful!
Reusable Bowl, Plate and Utensils: For leftovers or if you want to heat something up.
Reusable Coffee Mug and Water Bottle: To stay hydrated!
Brita: This is optional, but a Brita is extremely useful if you don’t want to walk to the water fountain at 1 a.m.
Mini Fridge and Microwave: Talk to your roommate! Clarkson students can rent a mini fridge instead of bringing their own.
Snacks: Bring nonperishable snacks such as popcorn, macaroni and cheese cups, granola bars etc.
What Not To Bring
You will be given a pamphlet of the things that you shouldn’t be bringing to college as some items are simply not allowed in dorms.
Appliances with Open Flames: No toasters, hot plates, or anything with an exposed heating element.
Extension Cords: Surge protectors are fine, but extension cords are prohibited.
Full-Size Refrigerators: Only mini-fridges are permitted.
Space Heaters & Air Conditioners: These are not allowed in dorms.
Candles & Incense: These are fire hazards- please avoid bringing these.
Bonus Items: For Comfort and Aesthetic Purposes
Photos and Posters: Bring pictures of family and friends to personalize your space more.
String Lights: Allowed with restrictions (avoid pinch hazards, don’t attach to ceilings).
Cozy Throw Blanket: Perfect for chilly nights.
Entertainment: Books, games, and streaming devices like a Fire Stick or Roku
Clarkson Specific Packing Tips
Prepare for North Country Winters: Clarkson students experience snowy winters, so pack insulated boots, winter coats, gloves and a hat.
Check Dorm Rules: Some items are restricted, so review Clarkson’s Residence Life policies before packing.
Move-In Day Advice: Arrive early, bring a dolly or cart, and communicate with your roommate.
Final Thoughts: Get Ready for Clarkson!
Making a college packing list doesn’t have to be stressful, focus on the essentials, avoid overpacking, and coordinate with your roommate to save space. Check out our Residence Hall Living Hacks to learn more about living on campus from a student’s perspective.
