So, you’re ready to make the big move from your parents’ house to the dorm at your college or university.

While we know you can’t take everything in your old room, there are a few things that you might want to throw into those brown moving boxes and take with you to school. Additionally, you might want to leave a few things behind and buy a few new items to put some zip into your dorm room.

Here are a few suggestions to consider as you take account of what you may and may not need for your dorm room regardless if you are a new student or a grad student returning to the school roost.

  • Cushy Comforter. Every dorm room bed needs a great, cushy comforter to snuggle up with during those long study nights. Bright colors, fun patterns or quilts make good choices for any size dorm room. Typically beds in dorms are twin size, so opt for twin or full comforters if you want it to be a bit bigger.
  • Warm Bathrobe. Some dorms have bathrooms that are en suites or shared between two rooms, while other dorms have bathrooms down the hall. Either way, opt for a warm bathroom robe to travel back and forth for showering or simply making a midnight visit, or two.
  • Small Carrying Basket. Get a basket to hold/carry shampoos, soaps, toothbrushes, washcloths, shaving cream, razors, etc. Why make several trips to the bathroom when you can do it all at once? A plastic basket with a handle is perfect for holding all your toiletries.
  • Flip Flops for wearing into the shower.
  • Small Refrigerator. Whether you share the cost with your roommate or bring your own, a small fridge is a must-have for dorm rooms. These lifesavers can store drinks, late night snacks and more especially when you have a craving after class.
  • Toaster Oven. Be sure your dorm allows these electric devices before bringing your own. If they allow, be sure you buy one. Toasters are wonderful additions to any dorm room from heating up pizza to making full meals any day, any time.
  • Photos and Picture Frames of Family. You won’t want to forget about your family and friends back home so be sure to bring them along with cute picture frames to place on your desk, walls, and above your bed.
  • Desk Lamp. A bright desk lamp will come in handy when you are up studying all night, chatting with other dorm friends and more.
  • Laundry Bag. Mom won’t be around to do your dirty laundry so you better bring a basket or bag for when you do your own.
  • Any size could come in handy when you feel the need to paste a photo of your most hated professor or even your roommate for later in the term to practice your throwing arm.
  • Sewing Kit. Things happen, clothes rip. Be sure to have a sewing kit, or at least a needleand some basic thread colors.
  • First Aid Kit. Paper cuts, falling on the steps of academic buildings … be prepared with a First Aid kit. Alternatively, bring a variety pack of Band-Aids, a tube of Neosporin, and a bottle of ibuprofen; because those are the items you’ll use the most.
  • Umbrella, Rain Boots, and Waterproof Jacket. These are good especially if you go to school on the East Coast; you’ll need wet weather gear.
  • Lava Lamp. This might be optional but having a lava lamp seems to go hand-in-hand with entering college. Think of it as almost a rite of passage – and they look groovy, too especially at night all lit up.