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25 Unexpected Things to Bring to College That Are Actually Useful
Figuring out what to bring and what not to bring to college can be more challenging than you might think. There’s always the basics like school supplies, toiletries, and bedding, but what about the unexpected things to bring to college that you won’t be able to live without? I’m talking about items only experienced students would think to have.
If you’re going into your first year, you’re probably not familiar with such items, but don’t worry, the list below has you covered. This way, you’ll know exactly what key essentials to take to college before you even start the semester. Keep scrolling to discover what your packing list is missing so you can start college off on the right foot.
Surge Protector Power Strip
A power strip with a built-in surge protector is a good investment if you have limited outlets in your dorm. With one of these, you can keep your mini fridge and coffee maker plugged in while you charge your laptop and cell phone.
Also, power outrages can occur at anytime, but with a surge protector, you won’t have to worry about frying your devices when they’re plugged in. This power strip has outlets on three sides and even comes with four USB ports for maximum charging capabilities.
Sweatpants
Some students think they need to bring a bunch of nice outfits to college, but they really don’t need to. Preferably, you’ll want to wear something comfy to class that doesn’t take forever to change into, like a pair of sweatpants. No one in your classes is going to care about what you’re wearing either, so don’t worry about impressing anyone.
I’m not saying you should walk around campus in your pajamas — even though some students do — but there’s nothing wrong with wearing a pair of sweatpants. They’re comfy, casual, and easy to throw on when you’re getting ready to head out for your morning classes.
Bed Risers
There’s a few different ways to lift your dorm bed to create extra space underneath, but using bed risers is likely your best option. The extra tall bed risers seen above are quite simple to install and can be a huge lifesaver if you bring a lot of stuff.
They’re made out of carbon steel, so won’t have to worry about their strength or durability. Investing in these will instantly upgrade your dorm and allow you to utilize every square inch of available floor space.
Laundry Carrying Bag
You probably have a hamper to use in your dorm for all your dirty clothes, but did you account for how you’re going to carry everything to the laundry room on campus? If not, then you’re going to need a laundry carrying bag.
The one seen here is made out of a durable, waterproof cloth material that is machine washable. It features two adjustable shoulder straps so you can use it as a backpack, a mesh pocket to store detergent, and a zippered pocket on the inside.
Rocketbook Fusion Notebook
Talk about the coolest notebook you’ll ever own. With the Rocketbook app, you’ll be able to scan anything you write down and upload it to various cloud applications. This means everything in the notebook can be stored digitally and accessed at anytime.
Another awesome feature the Fusion has is its 42 reusable pages that can be wiped clean with a damp cloth, making it completely reusable — just be sure to use the Pilot Frixion pen that’s included. It also comes with a number of different page templates, such as calendar pages, to-do lists, note-taking layouts, and more.
With the ability to combine cloud-based document storage and traditional note-taking, the Rocketbook Fusion Notebook is the ultimate tool for boosting your productivity and keeping your life organized.
Mattress Topper
One of the best things to take to college is a mattress topper. Most dorm beds are extremely uncomfortable, so a mattress topper — like this gel-infused memory foam one that’s available in a two-inch or three-inch thickness — is pretty much a necessity.
A key factor to being successful in college is getting quality sleep every night, but it can be difficult to do so without a mattress topper. Once you start using one on your bed, you’ll be able to sleep soundly and wake up refreshed without any aches or pains.
Levoit Core Mini Air Purifier
It doesn’t matter if you’re living in a small dorm, an apartment, or a house off campus, air purifiers are essential for keeping the air in your living space fresh and clean. There’s lots of high-quality air purifiers on the market today, but the Levoit Core Mini is perfect for college students because it’s compact and affordable.
The air purifier itself features a three-stage filtration system that traps at least 97% of airborne particles, including dust, hair, pollen, and smoke. The Core Mini also creates a sleep-friendly environment by operating at a noise level of 25dB.
Pepper Spray
There might be potential situations in college when your personal safety is at risk. When times like this occur, it’s always smart to carry something you can use to defend yourself. One of the best self-defense items to have is pepper spray. Carrying it on your person will not only give you some peace of mind when you’re walking home at night but also help deter any attackers who want to harm you.
When it comes to unexpected things to bring to college, you might not think of pepper spray. But in today’s society, pepper spray is unfortunately something many people have to use — even on college campuses.
Hootie Personal Keychain Alarm
The only thing better than one self-defense item is two, and that’s where the Hootie Personal Keychain Alarm comes in. Hootie works well in emergency situations when you need to alert people for help or scare away any potential predators who are bothering you.
If a situation arises where you need to use Hootie, all you have to do is pull the pin on the top of the device (it can be activated with one hand) which will trigger the 130 decibel alarm that can be heard from 1000 feet away. On top of that, it flashes a bright LED strobe light to disorient attackers. Carrying the Hootie Keychain Alarm with you everyday is essential for keeping you safe on campus.
Hug Sleep
Hug Sleep is certainly one of the most unexpected things to bring to college but has proved to be quite effective at improving sleep quality. The Sleep Pod from Hug Sleep simulates the feeling of being hugged by applying gentle pressure, which results in a restful sleep without tossing and turning.
The pressure from Sleep Pod can help relieve anxiety and relax your muscles once it conforms to your body. It accommodates sleepers of all sizes and all sleep positions. The blanket is made out of a lightweight, breathable stretch material that doesn’t trap heat or weigh you down like weighted blankets do. It also comes with a convenient foot pocket for extra comfort.
Mini Fridge Storage Organzier
A dorm can always use more storage, so if you have a mini fridge in yours, consider adding a hanging organizer to it. This storage essential can create plenty of extra space for your kitchen essentials and other food items. All you have to do is secure the velcro strap to the side of your fridge, then you’ll be ready to make full use of this helpful storage solution.
Mini Fridge Stand
Combine this mini fridge stand with the hanging storage organizer, and you’ll never have to worry about limited storage space around your fridge ever again. The stand comes with two fabric drawers that are perfect for storing snacks and larger kitchen supplies. Its lockable wheels also make it easy to move around if you’re cleaning or rearranging things.
Many students don’t think to elevate their mini fridge off the ground, which not only makes this one of most unexpected things to bring to college, but also a smart way to add extra storage to your dorm or apartment. And unlike bulky shelving units, it takes up very little space.
Moccasin Slippers
Owning a pair of slippers in college is more practical than you might think. First of all, they’re super convenient to wear whenever you leave your dorm and just want something comfy to walk around in.
Whether you’re heading to class early in the morning, getting food at the dining hall, or going to the library for a study session, a durable pair slippers will always come in handy. Wearing slippers can even boost your mood and productivity because they’re so comfortable (there’s actual science behind this).
What’s more, they can help protect your feet from communicable diseases and keep them free of bacteria, especially if you’ll be showering in communal bathrooms.
Tile Pro Bluetooth Tracker
Having a busy lifestyle in college makes it easier to lose items you carry around when you’re out and about. Thanks to the Tile Pro, you won’t to worry about losing your everyday essentials ever again. The Tile Pro acts as a Bluetooth tracker, so you’ll be able to pinpoint its exact location using the Tile app.
This can come in handy if you ever misplace your keys, backpack, or anything you have a Tile attached to. The versatile gadget also comes with two other useful features: the Tile app allows you to ring any items within Bluetooth range, and you can hit the button on your Tile to ring your phone in case you ever lose it.
Men's and Women's Robe
A robe is a great item to bring to college when you have to use communal showers. Instead of awkwardly getting dressed right out of the shower, you can put on your robe and dress in the comfort of your dorm room.
Even for students who live somewhere with their own personal bathroom, a robe is still nice to have for lounging and relaxing, especially in the winter months. The one seen here is made out of a soft and fluffy plush fabric, so it should have no problem keeping you warm at all times.
Transparent Sticky Notes
Transparent sticky notes are really convenient to have when you need to trace over images, highlight text in books, or just leave notes on items with still being able to see what’s underneath. These Post-It ones use an adhesive that removes cleanly without damage, so you won’t have to worry about ripping any papers or other course materials you stick notes in.
Yeti Cooler
If you plan on going to tailgates or throwing parties where you live, a Yeti cooler will be your best friend. Yeti coolers are built like a tank, and the Tunda 35 is no exception. With a generous 20-can capacity, the cooler has plenty of room for all your favorite beverages.
It can keep everything cold for days thanks to its extra-thick walls and two inches of polyurethane foam insulation. Yeti also sells a variety of hard coolers that range in size, so if the Tunda 35 is too big or too small, there’s always other models available to meet your needs.
USB-C Hub Adapter
For students who have USB-C devices, a hub adapter can make your life a whole lot easier. Using one is a space-saving and cost-effective way to add functionality to newer laptops that only have USB-C ports.
A USB-C hub can expand the capabilities of your laptop so its possible to connect multiple devices and peripherals at once. This exact USB-C Hub comes with six ports: three USB 3.0 ports, one ethernet port, one HDMI port, and one USB-C charging port.
All-Purpose Cleaner
An effective all-purpose cleaner is a must-have dorm cleaning supply. The Method All-Purpose Cleaner can remove dirt, grease, and grim from just about any household surface without causing damage. Its plant-based, biodegradable formula and 100% recycled packaging also makes it eco-friendly.
Water Filter Pitcher
Bringing this Brita Water Filter Pitcher to college is an easy way to always have clean, great-tasting water available to drink. And it’s a better alternative to filling up your dorm with a bunch of disposable plastic water bottles. It’s electronic indicator will let you know when to replace the filter, which is certified to reduce mercury, chlorine, and copper.
Over-the-Door Storage Organizer
With only a limited amount of space to work with in most traditional dorms, over-the-door organizers provide some much-needed storage without taking up a lot of room. They’re also perfect for cutting down on the amount of clutter you have laying around. With five deep pockets and three extra mesh pockets, all your items will be neatly organized and easily accessible.
Expanding File Organizer
An expanding file organizer can keep all your school, work, and personal documents easily accessible in one centralized location. This durable Five Star File Organizer should have no problem withstanding the daily wear and tear of a college lifestyle, and it’s seven large pockets with name tabs can keep the papers from all your different courses neatly organized.
First Aid Kit
Being in college and away from home means you have to start being more responsible with your overall health — one of the best ways to do that is by investing in a first aid kit. From adhesive bandages to Neosporin, this 160-piece first aid kit from Johnson & Johnson comes with all the essential supplies to help treat wounds, infections, rashes, and more.
It even includes Extra Strength Tylenol and cold packs to treat minor aches and pains. The only thing the kit doesn’t come with is cold pills, so I recommend adding in some because you’ll likely feel under the weather at least once during the school year. This way, you won’t have to run to the store for medicine, you’ll have everything you need already.
Townew Automatic Trash Can
The perfect trash can for a college living space is the Townew T3 Slim. This high-tech trash can has the ability to automatically seal trash bags shut once they’re full with its thermoplastic technology. Once you remove the trash bag, it gets automatically replaced with a new one.
The T3 Slim is even smart enough to detect when trash is overflowing and will release extra bag material when this occurs. On top of that, the trash can has a touch-free motion sensor lid that can detect movement from 14 inches away. It’s design is also compact enough to fit nicely in any small college dorm or apartment.
Possum Hanger
Dorm closets aren’t known for being very spacious, so many students end up turning theirs into a cluttered mess. To prevent this from happening with yours, you’ll want to use the Possum Hanger so you can keep your clothes more organized and can take advantage of the limited space.
The durable metal frame hanger acts as a closet organizer that can hold clothes, jewelry, and other accessories. With one of these in your closet, you’ll be implementing some much-needed vertical storage.
