Unexpected Essentials You Should Add To Your College Packing List

It's easy to get caught in the trap of pulling all nighters when studying for a test or completing an assignment, but time and time again studies show that you operate more efficiently and retain more information when you get a good night's sleep. I wish weighted blankets (esp Bearaby's Tree Napper) were a thing when I was going to college. I would've slept much more soundly amidst the looming deadlines. - Rosemary Delp, Editor

Chances are you’ll probably spend at least one (or a few) of your college years sharing a room. You and your roommate may also have different schedules, and thus different nighttime routines. You may be an early bird and they might be a night owl, or vice versa. So, an eye mask is essential to helping you fall asleep even if your roomie is up late studying or watching Netflix. I actually did have a sleep mask with me at college, but since graduating I’ve upgraded to this silk one from Slip and I wish I had it then. -Remi Rosmarin, Editor

I wish I got sturdy high rainboots for those extra rainy days when you have to walk all the way across campus. -Umama Kibria, Social Media Manager

Another college inevitable: communal bathrooms. And, you’ll probably have to walk down the hall to get there too. Instead of struggling to hold your towel up while also juggling your bath and body products, get a bathrobe. I love this one from Brooklinen because it’s pretty much a plush bath towel in its own right. It’s very absorbent, long enough to keep you feeling covered, and has an easy, adjustable tie to keep things put. While pricey, you can be sure it will last you all four years, and whatever comes after that. -Remi Rosmarin, Editor

The best hallmates were the ones that had the snacks and shared the snacks. Be that person. Fly By Jing's Hot Pot Starter Set makes for the perfect weeknight dinner or midnight snack. Take it from me (a seasoned dorm room snacker) – this is much better than any other frozen meal you can find in your college town's grocery store. -Rosemary Delp, Editor

Not to say I didn’t use deodorant in college, but I would’ve used a lot more if I had discovered this Juniper Eucalyptus Full Body Deodorant Spray from Curie. It’s literally a combination of two must-have college products: deodorant and body mist. The application is quick and easy so you can buy a few bottles and keep them in all the various bags you bring around campus. -Lillie Sun, Editor

I only graduated college a couple of years ago, but this is officially making me feel ancient. The beloved Workout Dress only became popular in the latter half of my collegiate experience, but boy do I wish it was a thing from the get-go. The easiest, one-stop-shop kinda outfit that's perfect for a morning walk, a midday study session, or night out on the town. The dress that does it all! Add to cart, immediately. - Rosemary Delp, Editor

This is a splurge for sure, but let me tell you – those dorm room chairs gave me back problems that lasted longer than my student loans. And especially with all the early mornings and late nights I spent at my desk rummaging through my notes, having invested in a quality, ergonomic office chair would have changed the game for me (and probably my grades). I recently picked up this one from Risedesk and am still kicking myself for not investing in it earlier.  -Lillie Sun, Editor