5 Essentials for College Freshmen!

I’ve moved a couple kids to college now (and now I have another senior in high school…so I’m only a year away from a THIRD 😅). I’m by no means an expert..especially since all kids are different! But here is what my kids have needed (and used) the most:

1️⃣ Bedding. Boys don’t care what kind. A fitted sheet and a big quilt make them happy. They won’t wash it all year, but don’t worry. You can throw them away at the end. Don’t spend too much on them. Girls? They buy sheets, duvet, a throw blanket, and alll the pillows-and really use them! *Bonus points for a cushy mattress topper and mattress pad.

2️⃣ School supplies & Textbooks. Boys like spiral notebooks and pencils (my son’s actual list). Girls like binders, notebook paper, tabbed dividers, colored highlighters, pens, and post-it pads. *Bonus points for desk essentials like a three hole punch and planner.

3️⃣ Electronics. They really do need a nice computer, since everything is typed and/or submitted online. Choose one based on the college and their major. *Bonus points for a surge protector, extension cords, long phone charging cord & wireless noise cancelling headphones.

4️⃣ Backpack and rainy day essentials. Kids on campus need a quality backpack. Choose a good one that pads their laptop, has room for binders and books, padded straps, and little storage sections. They will often carry the same one for four years. *Bonus points: umbrella, rain jacket, and waterproof shoes for rainy class days. We don’t want to give them any reason not to go to class, haha!

5️⃣ Daily Life supplies. Reusable water bottle, snacks (like nuts or protein bars), trash can & bags, command hooks, hamper and laundry supplies, towels/washcloths, and personal grooming necessities. *Bonus points: games, playing cards, and/or any ball or frisbee to play with friends.

Don’t stress over the little things. If I’ve learned anything . . I know my kids will call or text me if they really need something. That’s a wonderful opportunity to mail them something as a surprise! They love little reminders of home and to know you are thinking of them. I hope your student (and you!) have a wonderful year.

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