College Dorm Accessories
One thing about moving out of your parents' house and into a dorm room is that you'll need to take along a lot of stuff you don't really think about now. Like the pillow on your bed. A power surge protector. Towels. That stuff is just there at home, but not in the dorm.
Start by making a list. It's less intimidating if you break it down into categories. Take bedding, for example. What are you going to need? Sheets and pillowcases, for sure. Probably a comforter and a couple extra blankets. What about a mattress cover that protects against bed bugs? Or maybe a foam mattress pad in case that dorm room mattress is harder than concrete?
Will you be able to make food in your dorm room? If so, add that whole category to your list: cutlery, dishes, hot pads, and so on. Check with the college to see what kind of cooking equipment you're allowed to have in your room, such as a microwave, a coffeemaker, or a toaster oven.
Another important category is electronics. This means everything from a TV to your gaming system to your laptop. Plus the smaller essentials like your phone charger, a couple of extension cords, and yes, a surge protector.
Chances are nobody is cleaning your room for you, so plan to take along cleaning supplies. And bathroom supplies. Find out what furniture is provided and figure out if you'll have room to supplement it, with a bookcase, for example.
Space will no doubt be an issue, but you can find lots of cool stuff on Amazon that maximizes the room you have. For example, look at the ironing blanket that lets you iron your clothes (you do that, right?) without an ironing board. Or the "hanger cascade" that lets you get a lot more stuff in your closet.
Search for dorm room accessories on amazon.com for lots more ideas.