Your dorm is probably one of the many things on your mind if you’re about the start college. It’s the place that will be your home for an entire year, so ofc you’d want to have your space to be the comfiest and cutest it could be. But what to bring? That’s a whole other sitch.
There are countless videos and articles telling you what is absolutely essential for your first year dorm, but guess what? You *don’t* need everything (yep really, less is more). Some items might look great for a dorm, but in reality, is not necessary or worth the hype.
A whiteboard calendar
Unless you already use one consistently, there’s no need for one. Instead, use your devices’ calendar or Google Calendar instead. Or, opt for a physical planner where you can write down class schedules and events in more depth.
A TV
A dorm usually doesn’t have that much space, so a TV probably won’t fit in your room. Also, if you have a roommate, they may not always want to watch TV with you. If you and your roomie do want to have a movie night, a laptop will work just fine. Sometimes (not always) your dorm lounge may already have a TV to use too. Not only is it convenient for a big screen, but a great way to make new friends!
A futon
This is probably the item you will always see in every dorm shopping ad. Unless you have an extremely large dorm room and are going to have lots of friends over very often, a futon is not necessary at all. Utilized rugs and pillows to make a comfy, social space. Or, meet somewhere else on campus where you and your friends all have space to hang out.
A waffle maker
This item may seem like a good idea…but accidents can happen. (Trust us, you don’t want to be the girl who wakes everyone in your dorm hall with the fire alarm at 5 a.m. because you burned your mini waffles.) There’s a high chance that your dining hall will have a waffle maker, so take advantage of that instead.
*Another* nightstand or dresser
Your dorm will most likely already have a dresser and nightstand to use, and you definitely won’t have that much room to put another one in. Instead, use under-the-bed storage bins and hanging bed pocket organizers (they’re a lot smaller and can store a lot more).
A headboard
This one might be a hot take, and we know they are super cute to decorate your bed frame with—but so many people throw headboards away after using them for only one year. (Definitely not environmentally friendly, and a waste of money.) Keep in mind that there’s a possibility that you won’t live in the same dorm next year, and your headboard may not fit your next bed. Use pillows or a backrest instead to make your bed a cozy place to relax.
A bookshelf
A bookshelf is cute, but it will use up *a lot* of the limited space you already have. Don’t bring books that you’ve already read, either. If you do bring books from your physical TBR, use spaces like on the top of a dresser, desk or windowsill. (We promise it will look cute *and* super Pinterest-y.)
College dorm shopping can be a little overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. When shopping, remember to get items that can be used all throughout your college career and don’t take up too much space. If an item feels excessive, tbh, it probably is.
Share how you’re decorating your dorm on IG @girlslifemag!
Need more tips for freshman year at college? Check out these posts:
🌼 The Dorm Essentials You Need For College
🌼 5 Storage Hacks To Elevate Your Dorm Room
🌼 How To Deal With Homesickness In College
Top and slider image: @jennyhan
