It is time to grab your free printable college dorm checklist and pack your baby off to college. This may be a sad time for you, or you may be thrilled to see your child spread their wings. Either way, you will want to be sure they have everything they need once they leave the nest. A checklist is a great way to do that, so I thought I would offer up a free printable version just for you! You might also send them this college survival kit.
Printable College Dorm Checklist
As parents, it seems like we spend our whole lives preparing our child for this moment, only to find that when it finally arrives, it seems too soon! Whether you are a little sad or glad to see them off, this is a huge step in your child’s life.
When we sent our kid off to college, I couldn’t believe the amount of stuff we tried to fit into a teeny little dorm room.
If you want my advice: Stick to the checklist, and then buy whatever else after you’ve settled them into their rooms. There might be a few things you realize you need later, but this list is an excellent starting point for any college kid.
Download Free Printable College Dorm Checklist
Sign up for the newsletter in the box below, and the checklist will be sent to your email inbox. Look for a box below with a picture of the file you need. Then add in your information. If you already receive the newsletter, add your information again, and you will not be signed up for anything further. Once you get the email, you can print this file as many times as you need to. Happy packing!
Please note that this file is for personal use only. You can also contact me if you have any issues receiving the file.
Tips For Using Your Printable College Dorm Checklist
Dorms are typically very small, little matchboxes, but some universities have updated their dormitories and created larger community spaces.
Before you even begin packing, make sure you have a good understanding of how their space will be laid out, how many people are in each room, and if they have a private bathroom, community bathroom, kitchen, etc. This will prevent you from packing a mini fridge when there isn’t any room. Or, hauling bathroom decor if they have a community bathroom. Trust me on this part!
Encourage your child to coordinate with their roommate(s) so they don’t double-up on items unnecessarily
I really wish I had a checklist like this one when we were in your shoes! It’s so easy just to check things off or add more to the list as you purchase them. Start now to ensure you aren’t in a rush at the last minute.
This way, you can focus on spending extra time with your college freshman instead of stressing about the small stuff.
Start by marking off things you don’t plan on purchasing at all. Then make a plan as to when you will get the remainder of the items. There might also be things that you need that are not on my list. Those you can add to the blank space on the checklist. Once you have completed that, you will have a plan! All that is left is to execute it!
So, if you have a child headed to the dorms at the end of the summer, you will want to print this list now. Then start checking off things as you purchase them. Starting now will ensure that you are not in a huge rush later. The move will be more organized, and you can ensure that you will have everything you need.
What Not To Bring To College
Here are some items to think about leaving behind:
- Firearms and Weapons – Most universities do not allow them on campus at all.
- Air Mattresses – There won’t be any room for them to host company anyway!
- Extra Furniture – Unless you have an apartment-style dorm room, bean bag chairs or a couch just won’t fit in these tiny spaces. Chairs, desks, beds, and dressers are usually provided at most campuses.
Other Tips For Dorm Rooms
- Get Crafty With Storage Solutions – Storage is limited, which is why it’s so important to take only what is needed. You and your student may have to get creative when it comes to storing different items.
- A Small Area Rug – An area rug is great for warming up those cold linoleum floors without taking up too much space.
- Bring Plenty Of Adhesive Wall Hooks – This is so you can hang up photos and wall decor.
I hope this guide helps you determine what to pack for your dorm. A printable college dorm checklist can be a lifesaver when it comes to packing up and making sure that you haven’t forgotten anything. Good luck and happy packing!
FAQs About Printable College Dorm Checklist
Here are a couple of questions that I see readers ask about this printable college dorm checklist. If you have a question, please check to see if I’ve already answered it below. Don’t see your question? Leave it for me in the comments!
What Printer Would You Recommend For Printables In General?
I love using this printer!
Do I Need To Use A Special Paper For This Printable College Dorm Checklist?
No. I like using white cardstock for printables because it’s thicker paper, but you could use plain copy paper instead.
I Have More Than One Child Going To College. How Do You Recommend I Use This Checklist?
If you have more than one child going to college, you have a couple of options.
- You can either print out a copy for each child and write their name on the top.
- You could print out one copy and use multiple pen colors (assign one to each child) to check off each item.
- If you only have two children going to off to college, you could print this double-sided.
42 More Great Dorm Room Resources
Did you love this printable college dorm checklist and are looking for more dorm room resources? Then check out the projects and ideas below!
- Dorm Organization Board
- What Not to Pack for College
- DIY Lap Desk
- Space-Saving & Trendy Ideas to Decorate Your Dorm
- Organized Desk Area for a Teen Room
- 10 Dorm Room Ideas for a Stylish and Functional Space
- DIY College Survival Kit
- 25+ Cricut DIY Projects for the Best Dorm Room Decor
- Finals Survival Kit — a college care package!
Where do you get the popsicle molds?
Which popsicle molds Vicki?