{"id":33617,"date":"2019-07-15T13:40:15","date_gmt":"2019-07-15T17:40:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.tun.com\/blog\/?p=33617"},"modified":"2023-02-27T14:31:56","modified_gmt":"2023-02-27T19:31:56","slug":"everything-you-need-to-pack-for-college-masterlist-with-budget-options","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.tun.com\/blog\/everything-you-need-to-pack-for-college-masterlist-with-budget-options\/","title":{"rendered":"Everything You Need to Pack for College – Dorm Essentials on a Budget!"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

College is insanely expensive, but getting your dorm room set up should not be.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For budget-minded college students, we have crafted this complete list of dorm room essentials!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here are some budget-savvy ways to make your dorm room look great, maximize its limited space, and create a setting that empowers college success.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Things to buy for your dorm room<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

College dorm rooms are small and typically equipped with an uncomfortable bed, a desk, chair, and a small closet. It’s up to you to transform this raw area into your home away from home!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

But don’t worry. We got you covered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To set up your dorm room on a budget, the key is to purchase multi-functional and space-saving items that will last throughout your entire school career. Here\u2019s a list of essentials you should have in your dorm:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Storage bins:<\/strong> Storage bins are essential for college dorms. Not only do they help you keep your clothes organized, but they can also be used to store items such as school supplies and other small essentials. Look for storage bins with handles \u2013 it\u2019ll make lugging them around much easier!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Our Pick<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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Amazon Basics Collapsible Fabric Storage Cubes with Oval Grommets – 6-Pack, Light Grey H<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
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On Amazon<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Hanging storage: <\/strong>Hanging storage is a great way to store items like towels, hats, and scarves. You can also use it to store school supplies or other items you don\u2019t want cluttering up your room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Our Pick<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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StorageWorks 6-Shelf Hanging Closet Organizer, Hanging Shelves for Closet, Fabric, Mixing of Brown and Gray, 12″ D x 12″ W x 47 \u00be” H<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
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On Amazon<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Bulletin\/dry erase board<\/strong>: A bulletin or dry erase board is great for staying organized. You can make lists, plan out your days\/weeks, and even post pictures of friends and family.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Full-length mirror<\/strong>: A full-length mirror is also essential for doing outfit checks before leaving the dorm room<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Desk organizer:<\/strong> To stay organized and productive, a desk organizer is essential. Invest in something that has compartments for pens, pencils, paperclips, etc<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rug:<\/strong> Rugs can help make a dorm room feel more homey. Look for something that\u2019s durable and easy to clean \u2013 it\u2019ll get a lot of wear and tear!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bedding:<\/strong> You\u2019ll want to pick out bedding that\u2019s affordable, yet comfortable and stylish. For more details, read this article<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Laptop\/tablet stand<\/strong>: A laptop or tablet stand is great for watching movies, studying, and working on projects in bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Our Pick<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
\"\"<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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ALASHI Laptop Stand for Desk, Aluminum Computer Riser, Ergonomic Notebook Holder, Detachable Metal Laptops Elevator, PC Cooling Mount Support 10 to 15.6 Inches Notebook<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
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On Amazon<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Under bed storage<\/strong>: Make the most of your space by using under bed storage. Look for bins or cubes that will fit underneath your bed. They\u2019ll help keep your dorm room organized and clutter-free. They also can be used to move your dorm room essentials back home during the summer break.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Our Pick<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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Onlyeasy Foldable Underbed Bags – 2 Pack Blankets Clothes Comforters Storage Bag Breathable Zippered Organizer for Bedroom with Clear Window and 4 Handles, 39.4×19.7×5.9 in, Linen-like Grey, MXDUBBP2<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
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On Amazon<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Bedside caddy<\/strong>: Bedside caddies are great for holding things like books, laptops, phones, and chargers. They are much cheaper than a bedside table and will help you make the most of your dorm room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Our Pick<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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Surblue Bedside Caddy Hanging Bed Organizer Storage Bag Pocket for Bunk and Hospital Beds, College Dorm Rooms Baby Bed Rails, Camp 4 Pockets and 2 Hooks (Small, Gray)<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
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On Amazon<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Dorm kitchen<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Having a workable kitchen in college is essential for saving money and preparing healthy meals. One of the key ways to save money is to purchase kitchen essentials that are affordable and versatile. If you have roommates, split up the cost of these items to keep each person\u2019s spending costs low. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here are some kitchen essentials on a budget for college dorms:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mini fridge:<\/strong> A mini fridge is essential for storing food and drinks in your dorm room. Look for one with a freezer compartment \u2013 it\u2019ll come in handy for frozen meals and snacks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Our Pick<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
\"\"<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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Midea WHS-65LB1 Compact Single Reversible Door Refrigerator, 1.6 Cubic Feet(0.045 Cubic Meter), Black<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
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On Amazon<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Microwave: <\/strong>A microwave is a must for heating up food and drinks in a pinch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Our Pick<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
\"\"<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety Lock, 700W, Stainless Steel, 0.7 Cu.ft<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
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On Amazon<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Coffee maker:<\/strong> Investing in a coffee maker or single-serve brewer is a great way to save money on expensive coffee drinks. The one we suggest gives you the option of using K-cups or ground coffee.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Our Pick<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
\"\"<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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Famiworths Single Serve Coffee Maker for K Cup and Ground Coffee, 6 to 14 Oz Brew Sizes, Fits Travel Mug, Mini One Cup with Self-cleaning Function, Black<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
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On Amazon<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Coffee grinder<\/strong>: Investing in a coffee grinder will help you get the freshest cup of joe every morning!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Our Pick<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
\"\"<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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Kaffe Coffee Grinder Electric – Spice Grinder w\/Cleaning Brush, Easy On\/Off – Perfect for Espresso, Herbs, Spices, Nuts, Grain – 3.5oz \/ 14 Cup. Stainless Steel<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
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On Amazon<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Toaster oven: <\/strong>A toaster oven is a great way to make quick meals without having to use the communal kitchen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Nutribullet:<\/strong> If you\u2019re looking for a quick and easy way to make smoothies and shakes, a Nutribullet is the way to go. It is expensive to but smoothies when you are out, but making them yourself in your dorm can be very cheap with a Nutribullet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Our Pick<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
\"\"<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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Magic Bullet Blender, Small, Silver, 11-Piece Set<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
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On Amazon<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Rice cooker<\/strong>: A rice cooker is great for cooking up batches of grains and veggies in no time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Water filter<\/strong>: Investing in a water filter will help ensure you get clean, great-tasting water.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Our Pick<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
\"\"<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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Brita Water Filter Pitcher for Tap and Drinking Water with 1 Standard Filter, Lasts 2 Months, 6-Cup Capacity, BPA Free, White<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
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On Amazon<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Reusable water bottle<\/strong>: A reusable water bottle is essential for staying hydrated while on the go.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Cooking utensils & silverware<\/strong>: You’ll need basic cooking utensils and silverware for preparing meals in the dorm kitchen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dishes, plates, bowls & cups<\/strong>: Pick up some basic dishes, plates, bowls, and cups. They will come in handy for both cooking and eating.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mugs:<\/strong> Mugs are essential for enjoying hot beverages in your dorm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Cutting board<\/strong>: A cutting board is essential for prepping meals and snacks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Food storage bins\/bags<\/strong>: Investing in some food storage bins or bags will help you store leftovers and other food items.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Electronics & technology<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Technology is a must-have for college life. Investing in the right gadgets will help make your studies more efficient and fun. To stay on budget, try to purchase devices that can do multiple tasks, take advantage of sales and student discounts, and look for used items. Here are some tech essentials on a budget for college dorm rooms:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Laptop\/tablet: <\/strong>Laptops and tablets are a must for college. Look for one that\u2019s lightweight and has plenty of storage. To save money, take advantage of student discounts and the sales that take place around back to school.<\/p>\n\n\n\n