I was an RA for 3 Years; Here are the Not-So-Obvious Dorm Essentials You Should Pack for College in 2024

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With back-to-school season in full swing, many of you are likely packing up or have already packed for your college journey. You've probably checked off the basics — dorm essentials like bedding, toiletries, and tech for classes — but what about the not-so-obvious items that might slip through the cracks, especially if this is your first time living away from home? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered.

Having spent all four years of college living in the dorms — starting with that classic freshman experience of sharing a small room with two roommates I was paired with through random selection, and continuing with three years as an RA (yes, even through the COVID-19 pandemic) — I’ve seen it all. From mediating roommate disputes to surviving the chaos of Halloweekend duty, my RA lore runs deep. I've tackled countless crises, organized community-building events, and attended numerous training sessions, so I’d like to think I have a pretty good grasp of the ins and outs of dorm living.

After hours of reflecting back on those four years, I've compiled a list of must-have dorm essentials that you might not have thought of. Dive in, and if you’re shopping for yourself or someone heading back to college this fall, be sure to share this article. There’s a good chance they’ll discover at least one item they’ve missed and will want to add to their packing list!

Shop Not-So-Obvious Dorm Essentials 2024

Rain gear is one of the most commonly forgotten items when packing for college — and you’ll only realize it on that one day when you’re running late to class (of course, on an exam day), and it’s pouring rain, leaving you with only a hoodie that will definitely get soaked. This compact umbrella, with over 56,700 five-star reviews on Amazon, is a solid choice and also windproof. It’ll save you from the embarrassment of having your umbrella flip inside out as you walk to class (something I may or may not have experienced firsthand).

From my experience, RAs and housing staff typically aren’t allowed to open containers, lids, or closet doors during standard room checks. So, here’s a sneaky tip: if you have items you want to keep out of sight (like a Keurig machine, candle, or fun beverage), stash them in this storage ottoman and make sure the top is closed. Plus, it doubles as extra seating for any guests in your room.

Chances are, you’ll be sharing a bathroom with either your roommates (if you’re lucky enough to have a bathroom connected to your room) or with the rest of the floor. You definitely don’t want to be the one who leaves an unwanted, stinky impression in the communal bathroom. That’s why future you will thank yourself for having this affordable toilet spray on hand (seriously).

If your dorm has a communal bathroom, there will likely be lockers available for storing your shower caddy and toiletries. In that case, this combination lock will be incredibly useful. Honestly, I recommend getting a second one in case you need it for lockers at your school’s gym, although some gym lockers might already have built-in locks.

It’s also a good idea to invest in a small safe, especially one with a cable lock that you can secure to something like your bedpost, for storing valuables such as emergency cash, ID, and your passport. You might wonder why you need your passport at college, but who knows — maybe that Cabo spring break trip will turn into a reality this year!

This small wastebasket is perfect for those nights when you had a bit too much fun at the function and made it safely back home to your room... but not quite to the bathroom. Trust me, it’s much easier and less messy to clean up from this bin than from your carpeted dorm room floor.

Even if you have a reliable backpack from high school that you love, it’s a great idea to get a more polished one for those special occasions. A professional-looking backpack can make all the difference when you're heading to research conferences, internships, or career networking events. It’s all about looking (and feeling) your best!

On a related note, don’t forget to pack some professional clothing! Whether it’s for internship and club interviews, class presentations, academic conferences, or other special occasions, having a sleek, well-tailored black blazer (and matching pants) on hand will be incredibly useful.

Don’t underestimate the power of a classic white button-up shirt to elevate your look. This Brochu Walker option may have a higher price tag, but its top-notch quality and fit are worth every penny. Perfect for formal professional or academic events, it also layers smoothly under sweaters or blazers for a polished touch.

Complete your professional look with some stylish yet chic loafers. You don’t want to show up at a research presentation or conference with important faculty and alumni in tennis shoes (or Dr. Martens, as I did — I’m still grateful to the lectern that conveniently hid my feet and my embarrassment during my turn to present).

From sorority rush and winter formals to girls' nights out, this minimal-chic mini dress is a versatile, elevated staple you'll love having in your college wardrobe. Available in five colors, it’s the bestselling pick on it-girl favorite brand Meshki’s site—and yes, we’re totally obsessed.

Along the same lines, it’s a good idea to have a pair of basic heels ready for any 'formal-ish' event you’ll need to attend, like an end-of-semester club banquet. These Aerosoles heels are a step up from your standard pair, thanks to their cushioned insole and flexible straps. Plus, they come in a wide array of colors to complement any wardrobe.

If you’re heading to a club interview or a professional networking event, you’ll want to look polished and put-together. Unfortunately, the old "steam out clothes wrinkles in the shower" trick doesn’t work so well with a communal bathroom in the dorms. This top-rated portable steamer is here to save the day, ensuring you show up in crisp, wrinkle-free clothes and make a great first impression.

On those sunny days when you want to unwind outside on the grass — whether you’re reading a book or enjoying time with friends — a picnic blanket is essential. This one is particularly versatile, folding down into a compact size that doubles as a pillow, featuring a snap-attached hood that converts it into a poncho, and being water-resistant. Plus, it comes in ten stylish patterns to fit your personal taste.

You probably won’t be doing your makeup in the communal bathroom, but let’s face it — most dorm room lighting is pretty dismal. Plus, you might not have access to a good mirror in your room, which makes this light-up version a total must-pack. It’s a top-rated choice on Amazon, with over 30,000 recent purchases and more than 11,600 five-star reviews.

Having a suitcase tucked away under your bed or in your closet can be a lifesaver for those spontaneous weekend getaways or trips home for winter break. Even if it takes up a bit of space, you'll thank yourself later. This Nex suitcase is a fantastic option with its stylish, high-tech design, dent-resistant exterior, bacteria-fighting interior, and super-smooth wheels.

While the front desk at your residence hall likely has full-size vacuums you can borrow for cleaning your dorm room, this compact vacuum is perfect for regular maintenance around your desk and bed. Recently purchased by over 70,000 Amazon shoppers and boasting more than 68,100 five-star reviews, this tiny yet mighty appliance features a rotating slim nozzle, pull-out crevice tool, flip-up brush, and cyclonic action to tackle every nook and cranny with maximum effectiveness.

The desk chair that comes with your dorm room probably isn’t ideal for long-term comfort. If you don't want the hassle (and cost) of investing in a new desk chair — plus, housing staff might not even have a place to store your current one — this seat cushion is the next best thing, especially when paired with the matching lumbar support pillow.

One great thing about college is that there’s almost always something happening every weekend, whether it’s a friend-of-a-friend’s kickback, a frat party, or a trip to that grungy yet memorable college bar. This Philips epilator will make your GRWM (get ready with me) time as seamless and effortless as possible, helping you avoid painful nicks and reducing the time you spend in the communal bathroom shower.

Speaking of self-maintenance essentials, nail clippers are one of those easily forgotten items when packing for the dorms. Keep your grooming routine in check with this manicure set, which includes all the tools you need for perfect nails and comes in a convenient travel case.

You might think grocery bags aren’t a necessity, especially if you’re on a dining hall plan. But trust me, you’ll find yourself heading to Trader Joe’s or the local grocery store for snacks, beverages, and more. Instead of struggling with flimsy paper bags, rely on these heavy-duty canvas bags, which feature dual handles for extra support and durability.

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