41 Essentials You’ll Actually Use
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With summer break coming to a close and school back in session, it’s time to get your ducks in a row. Here’s a well‑curated list of college essentials—each item is sure to remain a must-have in every back‑to‑school haul to come.
Backpack
Jansport
Perhaps one of the most obvious items, you’re going to need a backpack that can last you for the long haul. This Jansport backpack provides excellent back support as you lug your books and other class essentials around campus. With several pockets, it also offers a great way to stay organized on the go.
Pens
Pilot
Whether you’re taking notes in class or signing off on a package in the campus mailroom, having a pen handy is a must because you never know when you’ll need one. I personally love the feel of a fine-point pen like these Pilot ones. The grip is a lifesaver when my hand gets fatigued from all that note-taking.
5-Subject Notebook
Amazon
For those classes that don’t allow laptops, you’re definitely going to need some notebooks. A five-subject notebook is especially handy because you can divide it into sections by class or even by units within one class.
Highlighters
Pilot
If you rent textbooks, there’s a good chance you’ll open one up to find an array of colorful highlights left by previous owners. Keep a variety pack of highlighters on hand to color‑code important information for future reference—it’s a game-changer.
Sticky Notes
Target
Prepare to go through many packs of these. Whether you’re jotting down a quick reminder or bookmarking pages in your textbooks, sticky notes are an everyday non‑negotiable for college students.
Scissors
The Container Store
A good pair of scissors always comes in handy—whether for opening packages delivered to the dorm or for opening snacks.
Stapler
Swingline
This stapler not only adds a pop of color to your desk but also serves as an essential office tool when you need to staple together final papers and projects for your professors.
Pen & Desk Organizer
Yamazaki Home
This desk organizer is perfect for storing all your school supplies. Its handle makes it easy to move your items to common spaces when working on projects in the dorm.
Body Wash
Dove
You’d be surprised how many people focus on school needs and forget daily hygiene essentials during their back-to-school shopping spree. This Dove body wash, made with almond milk, leaves your skin fresh and hydrated after a shower.
Deodorant
Dove
This should be at the top of your list—all of your classmates will thank you. This Dove deodorant offers 72‑hour odor control, keeping you fresh all day long.
Hand Sanitizer
Grove Co.
Beat the campus flu by applying sanitizer frequently throughout the day. Keep it in your backpack, purse, or car, and make it a habit to use it often to combat germs and viruses on campus.
Multi-Purpose Cleaner
Grove Co.
Spray this cleaner on dorm surfaces to remove grime and dust that seeps in from the outside. This Grove cleaner is made with bio‑based ingredients and comes in a recyclable aluminum bottle, making it an eco‑friendly choice.
Laundry Detergent Sheets
Grove Co.
Make wash days mess‑free with these detergent sheets. They require little measuring—ideal for first‑time laundry-doers who are used to someone else taking care of this chore.
Facial Spray
Sephora
Enriched with aloe vera and rose water, this facial spray is perfect for misting your face in the morning, at night, or for a quick refresh during the day. The mini size fits easily in your backpack for an afternoon pick‑me‑up that leaves your skin with a dewy glow.
Shampoo
Dove
Another shower staple, this shampoo features bond‑strength technology that can help revive hair damage from up to three years ago.
Conditioner
Dove
After shampooing, use this conditioner to enjoy moisturized, luscious locks. A high‑quality shampoo and conditioner duo is especially helpful if your school’s water quality isn’t up to par.
Toothbrush
Hello
Keep your at-home dentist happy by brushing your teeth two to three times a day. This biodegradable toothbrush is both eco‑friendly and effective.
Toothpaste
Hello
Maintain pearly white teeth throughout the school year with this whitening toothpaste. It combats plaque and tartar while ensuring your breath remains fresh with that cool, crispy mint feeling.
Disinfecting Wipes
Amazon
Wipe down door handles, cellphones, laptops, desks, and other surfaces with these wipes. Lysol is a cleaning staple because its wipes kill up to 99.99% of viruses and bacteria—including cold and flu viruses—keeping your space germ‑free.
Insulated Water Bottle
Stanley
For hot coffee drinkers, this insulated water bottle may be your best friend. Made by the beloved brand Stanley, it’s versatile enough to carry both hot and cold beverages on the go.
Water Bottle
Stanley
Let this water bottle be your reliable “emotional support water bottle,” keeping your favorite iced beverage fresh all day long.
Half-Gallon Storage Bags
Ziploc
You never know when a plastic bag will come in handy. Use these bags to store snacks for a library study session or to organize hair ties, clips, and other small items in the dorm.
Wireless Mouse
HP
This is a essential for classes that require a lot of online work, this wireless mouse enhances your laptop experience.
Laptop Sleeve
Herschel
Protect your laptop from damage with a cushioned sleeve that won’t add too much bulk to your backpack or bag. This is a must‑have tech accessory to keep your device in top condition throughout your college years.
Carry-On Luggage
Away
Make transporting clothes over holiday breaks easier with this carry-on suitcase, designed for maximum storage and featuring a built-in organization system.
Dinnerware Set
Target
No matter if you’re cooking a multi-course dinner in your makeshift dorm kitchen or just plating up takeout, a dinnerware set is essential for meals and snacks.
Silverware
Target
Silverware is another must‑have for meals, whether you’re enjoying a quick yogurt or takeout from the dining hall.
Mattress Protector
Brooklyn Bedding
Protect your mattress from dust, spills, and stains throughout college. This protector also features cooling technology to help prevent night sweats from disrupting your sleep.
Food Storage Container Set
OXO
In college, leftovers are a luxury. A set of food storage containers can keep your food fresh for lunch the next day. They’re also great for taking snacks to class or the library.
Bed Sheets
Brooklinen
A comfortable, cozy set of bed sheets will help your home away from home feel more like your bed at home. These Brooklinen sheets feature breathable fabric that transforms your bed into a sanctuary.
Comforter
Brooklinen
Also by Brooklinen, this comforter feels like a cloud—perfect for wrapping up in on chilly nights when you’re studying or watching a movie.
Duvet
Brooklinen
This duvet protects your comforter from outside germs, keeping your bed clean and cozy. Bonus: A duvet cover means you won’t have to lug a bulky comforter to the washing machine every week.
Laundry Bag
Ikea
Laundry days can be a hassle, but a well‑designed laundry bag with handles makes transporting your clothes significantly easier. Plus, its minimalist design means it can be left out in the open and still look aesthetically pleasing.
Pillow
Purple
A bedding essential, Purple’s Cloud Pillow is known for providing excellent head support for a good night’s sleep.
Bath Towels
Parachute
Upgrade your routine with these 100% Turkish cotton bath towels. They’ll make your post‑shower routine feel like a hotel experience—even if you’re using a communal bathroom.
Bathrobe
Parachute
Who doesn’t love a cozy bathrobe after a shower? This robe by Parachute is designed for relaxing with its comfortable, laid‑back fit.
Electric Kettle
Amazon
An electric kettle in college opens up a world of culinary possibilities—from ramen and mac and cheese to instant oatmeal and soup. If you are in luck and have kitchen access, it’s perfect for making quick, easy cups of tea.
Hangers
The Container Store
Using hangers not only saves precious drawer space (a treasure for college students) but also keeps your clothes tidy.
Steamer
Rowenta
Wrinkled clothes can give off the stereotypical unkempt college student look. A portable steamer will help keep your outfits crisp and fresh—finally earning your parents’ stamp of approval.
Shower Shoes
Amazon
These are a holy grail when it comes to communal bathrooms, which are notoriously not the cleanest. These slides feature small drainage holes that let water run through as you shower—protecting your feet from the shared shower tiles others have stepped on.
Period Products
Rael
These tampons feature a certified organic cotton core and veil, which are fragrance-free and free from harmful chlorine bleaching. They also stay leak-free for hours, so nothing slows you down when you’re on the go.
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