College Packing List for Guys: What to Take to College (with Printable PDF)
My son is graduating and heading off to college this year. Even though the school year isn’t quite over yet, I like to plan and prepare ahead so I can rest easy at night. I’m sure you know what I mean. Sending your son off to college can be a bittersweet experience. You’re happy to see them grow and start a new journey in life, but it’s also hard to let go. You want to make sure that they have everything they need to make their first year of college as comfortable and fun as possible. With so many lists and not enough time to read them all, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and uncertain about what to pack. But don’t worry, Moms! I’ve compiled a comprehensive college packing list for guys that will save you time, and energy and allow you to rest assured knowing that your son has everything he needs for a successful first year in college.
College Packing List for Guys
Dorm Room Essentials:
Organization and Storage
Check the college website for detailed housing information, virtual tours, and floorplans of the dorm rooms to see what is provided. Typically colleges provide a twin XL bed, a chest of drawers, and a desk and chair for students. There will likely also be either a closet or a wardrobe. Knowing what is provided will help you plan for organization and storage necessities.
- Underbed Storage
- Storage Chest
- Rolling Storage Cart
- Drawer Organizer
- Drawer Liner
- Hangers
- Over the Door Hooks
- Hanging Shoe Storage
- Hanging Closet Shelves
- Plastic Storage Drawers / Stackable Shelving Cubes
- Storage Ottoman
- Bedside Table with Storage
- Bedside Lamp
Bedding
Most dorm rooms provide a twin XL-sized bed, so be sure to pack bedding accordingly. The mattress is typically very cheap so a nice mattress topper will be key for your son’s sleeping comfort.
- Pillows
- Pillow Protectors
- Pillowcases
- Quilt / Comforter / Duvet Cover (Twin XL)
- 2 Sets of Sheets (Twin XL)
- Mattress Topper (Twin XL)
- Mattress Pad (Twin XL)
- Reading Pillow
- Extra Blanket
Shower and Toiletries
Keeping up with personal hygiene is important, especially in a shared living space. Make sure your son has everything he needs, and don’t forget the shower shoes, as the communal showers may not be the cleanest!
- Shower Caddy or Tote
- Shower Shoes
- 2 Bath Towels
- 2 Hand Towels
- 2 Wash Cloths
- Towel Wrap
- Bathrobe
- 1 Beach/Swim Towel (if needed)
- Sunscreen
- Lip Balm
- Nail Clippers
- Toilet Paper
- Hand Soap
- Toothbrush / Toothbrush Holder
- Toothpaste
- Flossers
- Shampoo / Conditioner
- Brush / Comb
- Hair Products
- Razors / Shaving Cream
- Soap / Body Wash
- Deodorant
- Skincare Products
- First Aid Kit
- Medicine
Laundry
- Stain Remover
- Wrinkle Release Spray
- Lint Roller
- Wrinkle Release Spray
- Lint Roller
Cleaning
- Stick / Handheld Vacuum Combo
- Disinfecting Wipes
- Toilet Scrubber
- Toilet Cleaner
- Plunger
- Glass Cleaner
- Shower Scrub Brush
- Shower Cleaner
- Swiffer Mop / Pads
- Dish Scrub Brush / Sponges
- Dish Soap
Kitchen
- Microwave
- Mini Fridge
- Mini Fridge Organizer
- Trash Can
- Trash Bags
- Paper Towels
- Paper Towel Holder
- Plastic Dishware
- Eating Utensils
- Insulated Tumbler
- Insulated Water Bottle
- Chip Clips
- Brita Water Pitcher
- Dish Towels
Miscellaneous Items
Don’t forget to pack items that cater to your son’s hobbies or interests. A set of playing cards, a board game, or a musical instrument can lighten the atmosphere in the dorm room and help foster new friendships. It’s all about finding a balance between what he needs and the things that bring him joy.
- Fan
- Light Bulbs
- Batteries
- Clip-on Book Light
- Room Freshener Spray
- Umbrella
- Chess Set / Games
- Duffle Bag
- Ear Plugs
- Humidifier
- Toolkit
- Area Rug
- Room Decor
- Musical Instrument (if they play)
School Supplies:
Desk & School
Your son will be spending a lot of time at his desk, so it’s important to make sure he has everything he needs for studying and organizing.
- Required Books
- Notebooks
- Printer Paper
- Notebook Paper
- Binders
- Folders
- 3 Hole Punch
- Stapler / Staples
- Ruler
- Desk Organizer
- Chair Cushion
- Desk Lamp
- Scientific Calculator
- Pens / Pencils / Highlighters
- Index Cards
- Post-It Notes & Flags
- Scissors
- Paper Clips
- Tape
- Small Trash Can / Trash Bags
- Backpack
- Student Planner
Electronics
Technology is a crucial aspect of college life, from taking notes and writing papers to staying connected with friends and family. Make sure your son has a reliable laptop, a printer, and a phone charger. And don’t forget to pack a pair of headphones, so he can listen to music or take online classes without disturbing his roommate.
- Laptop / Charging Cable
- Laptop Sleeve
- Cordless Mouse / Mouse Pad
- Printer / Extra Ink
- Wireless Headphones / Stand / Charger
- Flash Drive
- Power Strip with Surge Protector
- Extra Phone Charging Cords
- Wireless Phone Charger
- Earbuds
Clothing:
Now let’s talk about clothing. Your son should pack clothes that cater to his daily routine and the climate where he will be attending college. Does he need to dress up for his course? Does he prefer casual wear? It’s important to strike a balance between style and functionality. Pack enough clothes to last at least two weeks, including shirts, pants, shorts, jackets, socks, underwear, and an assortment of shoes. Don’t forget sleepwear, gym clothes, and a rain jacket/umbrella for those unexpected downpours. And depending on where your son’s college is located, be sure to pack appropriate seasonal wear.
Preparing for college can be overwhelming, but packing shouldn’t be. With this comprehensive college packing list for guys, your son can breeze through the move-in process with ease. Remember to pack smart, pack light, and pack to suit your son’s personality and interests. Encourage him to get creative with his dorm room decor, but also remind him to be mindful of his roommates’ space. Before you know it, he’ll be all set to embark on this exciting new adventure!
To make it super easy for you to help your son prepare for his freshman year at college, here is a FREE Printable College Packing List for Guys.
