We are a reader-supported site and receive compensation from purchases made through these links. See more about our Privacy and Affiliate policies here
College move-in day is approaching, and the best way to prepare is to be ready. Every school has its own rules and traditions surrounding move-in day, and you will soon learn what those are. But some things are universal.
So, whether your whole family is going or just your teen is moving into a dorm or apartment, there are 17 things that thousands of experienced Grown and Flown parents told us were THE essential items they felt they needed for this intense and highly emotional day.
The critical things to bring to college move-in day
1. Voipvii Folding Hand Truck (Amazon)
A platform cart or a dolly was mentioned repeatedly — they’re enormously helpful for getting your stuff where it needs to go. This will make college move-in day go so much more smoothly.
2. Belkin Surge Protector (Amazon)
You can never have enough power in a dorm room, and many colleges do not allow extension cords. Your student can keep their appliances powered up with this compact 6-outlet surge protector. With a 6′ cord and a 360-degree rotating AC plug, this is a practical solution for tight dorm rooms. Lots of safety features and a 2-year warranty
3. WOOZOO Fan (Amazon)
August can be sweltering, and many dorms are not air-conditioned. Bring a fan and set it up first to keep all of you a little cooler during the move-in. WOOZOO fans have become very popular and now come in many pretty colors and a remote control. These are several different WOOZOO fans offered at different price points.
4. IKEA Frakta Storage Bag (Set of 6) (Amazon)
Hopefully you will have used these for your packing, but bring a few extra because the kids may want to keep a few and you may need to take some things home with you.
5. Apollo Tool Set (Amazon)
The most recommended tools were a screwdriver, tape measure, hammer, scissors, rubber mallet, and duct tape. Leave a set like this for your student who will use it moving in and out of dorms and apartments over the next four years…and beyond.
6. Johnson & Johnson First Aid Kit (Amazon)
We recommend compiling your personalized kit with all the first aid and cough/cold medicines your family prefers. But if you want to be covered with the basics, getting a set this like will do the trick. You will want to have this handy in case you need a bandaid on move in day!
7. Wundermax Door Stopper (Pack of 3) (Amazon)
As soon as you get to the room, use one of these to prop the door open, and you will make your life much easier. And with an open door who knows who you’ll meet??? (Bring all three with you as some other families on the hall might not have thought of this great idea.)
8. Touchland Hand Sanitizer (Set of 3) (Amazon)
Keep everyone’s hands clean with these travel-friendly set of three scented hand sanitizer mists (Watermelon, Peach, and Berry) that combine effective germ protection with a hydration.
11. Seropy Magnetic Paper Towel Holder (Amazon)
A magnetic paper towel holder, easy, drill-free installation on metal surfaces like refrigerators or appliances. Can be mounted vertically or horizontally to save space and compatible with most standard paper towel rolls. Great for organizing kitchens, bathrooms, or small spaces without damaging surfaces.
12. Command Hooks (Amazon)
Command hooks for “hanging” things on walls are very popular; they peel off easily without ruining the walls. There are so many options for both hooks and strips and you might want to bring both.
Note: Check the “residence life” section of the college website to see if these are allowed.
13. Cleaning supplies (Amazon)
Hopefully, your dorm room will be immaculate, but if it’s not quite up to your cleanliness standards, these will be helpful.
14. Paper and Pen/Sharpie (Amazon)
You will probably have some of this stuff with you for your student but keep a pen handy because you may need to make notes or fill out forms. A Sharpie or two will come in handy.
15. Dapute S Hooks (6 Pack) (Amazon)
S hooks are good to use to hang towels and jackets on your dorm bed. They can also be used inside a closet to hang up pants like you see in this illustration. They come in white or black.
16. Anker MagGo Power Bank (Amazon)
So, you can stay charged up all day, because believe us, you’ll need to charge your phone and this is so much easier than fishing out a power cord. This slim, pocket-sized power bank works with MagSafe for easy wireless charging and can power an iPhone almost twice. With fast charging and a sleek design, it’s great for busy days on campus.
17. Change of clothing
You are bound to get sweaty and dirty, so pack a clean change of clothing for the trip home. Also, something to drink and nibble on will be handy when you’re hot and tired.
BTW, since college students need water bottles, think about packing a new Owala that offers a wide selection of styles and sizes perfect for your students snd such fun color combos.
For long days on campus, studying at the library, sports practice, bike rides, workouts, hiking, or walking to class, Hydro Flask water bottles are excellent for your teen — keeping drinks cold or hot for the whole day.
You will forget something, of course
Everyone forgets something. Whatever you’ve forgotten, don’t panic because, luckily, we live in a time when you can get anything online and get it shipped to your student.
Finally…The most popular answer, aside from those listed above and tissues, alcohol, and tranquilizers, was to bring your smile, sense of humor, and patience. Bring an overabundance of patience because you’ll need it. And follow your student’s lead — it’s not your room; it’s theirs.
You are there to help but not to dictate. College move-in day can be very long, hot, and exhausting. However difficult the day is, it’s also tremendously exciting. Heed the crowd’s wisdom and bring your smile and ability to let go, and it might just be a day you all remember fondly.
When the move-in is complete-it’s time to walk away, however cranky everyone got during the move. When you leave your child, tell them you love them, you’re proud of them, and assure them that you will be fine, and so will they.
Prices were accurate at time of publication.
More Great Lists:
28 Bestselling Dorm Essentials
32 Dorm Ideas You Might Not Have Thought Of
17 Items to Check Off Your List Before Your Teen Leaves for College
6 Reasons Why Moms Cry When They Leave Their Kids at College
