How to Make Your Own College Survival Kit
When recently graduated high schoolers go off to college, it is most likely the first time they will be living away from home. This is a dramatic life change, and while exciting, can be a genuine cause for stress as well. That’s why it’s so important to prepare for life as a college freshman as much as possible. And doing that can seem difficult, especially if you don’t know how.
Luckily for you, we’ve compiled some of the “must-haves” for college freshman. You won’t want to leave your parents’ house without these items.
Toiletries
While you can always buy shampoo and soap in the student store, it’s recommended to bring some of your own, at least to get you started. Anything that you use on a daily basis should be a part of what you pack. You should even bring your own toilet paper! Yes, I know that sounds ridiculous, but a nice roll of TP from home is really a vast improvement from the rough and sandpapery stuff of dorm rooms.
You’re also going to want to make sure you bring a few medical supplies like band aids, some hydrogen peroxide, cotton balls and of course, any medications you may take. Bring the staple medications as well such as over-the-counter pain killer, allergy medicines and things of that sort. And don’t forget the room spray to keep the air smelling fresh—especially since you’re living with others.
Laundry Essentials
Living away from home for the first time brings a whole host of new responsibilities, including doing laundry in the pay machines. You’ll want to prepare by packing plenty of quarters for the machines. You should also bring your favorite laundry detergent and some stain remover for when stains happen and you can’t get to a washing machine quickly. And don’t forget to bring a laundry basket or bag to make moving your clothes easier.
Storage Options
When you go away to college, you’ll most likely have less room that you did back at home. That’s why finding practical storage solutions is so important for those going to live in a dorm room.
Make sure you add storage boxes and other such items to your college survival kit. Those under the bed boxes are especially useful, as they lay low to the ground, are air tight and can hold extra blankets and other items you need but don’t use as often. Likewise, Tupperware is a fantastic way to store snacks and leftover food stuffs. This is especially important so you can clearly mark whose food is whose in the dorm mini-fridge (if there is one).
Gas Cards
It is always a good idea to go off to college with a few gas cards to keep you on the road. If you have a car, you’re going to have to fill it up with gas often, even if you don’t drive all that much. So if your parents are assembling this kit for you, or if you’re constructing one on your own, purchase a few gas cards prior to leaving for college.
Quick Food Fixin’s
Another thing every college freshman should have as a part of their survival kit is some food! It’s easy to forget, but you won’t be at home for dinner anymore, so make sure you have a plan for your meals set up before you move in. For instance, if you want to use the meal plan on campus, make sure you’ve paid your dues for that. Or, if you want to fend for yourself food wise, then make sure you know how to cook a few staple dishes and bring along some snack-like foods that are nutritious but don’t spoil easily, like granola bars, cereals, and pasta.
There’s always more you can add to your survival kit. Whatever it is you think you will need, go ahead and add it. You won’t be sorry to be well equipped at the beginning of your freshman year!