🧳 Your Dorm Move-In Checklist for International Students
Wondering what to pack for your U.S. college dorm? This complete move-in checklist for international students covers the essentials and what to skip.
✈️ Arriving in the U.S. for College? Here’s What You Actually Need
Packing for college is stressful enough, and it’s even more confusing when you’re moving across the world. As an international student, you want to feel at home, comfortable, and prepared for life in a U.S. dorm… but you’re also working with luggage limits, customs restrictions, and a million other things to think about.
That’s why we’ve created this ultimate Dorm Move-In Checklist for International Students, so you know exactly what to bring (and what to leave behind).
Let’s get you settled without the stress!
✅ Essential Dorm Items (Pack or Pre-Order)
Some dorms provide very little, and shopping after arrival can be overwhelming, expensive, and time-consuming. Here’s what you’ll need to feel comfortable from day one:
🛏️ Bedding & Comfort
Twin XL fitted sheet (2 sets)
Flat sheet
Duvet or comforter (Twin XL)
Duvet cover (2 for rotation)
Pillows (2)
Pillowcases (4)
Mattress protector or topper (optional, but helpful)
Pro Tip:
🧺 Buy a pre-made bedding kit with everything included to save space and avoid shopping stress. Check out our all-in-one kits →
🛁 Bath & Hygiene
2 Bath towels
2 Hand towels
Shower caddy (portable)
Flip flops for communal showers
Toiletries (travel-size or first-week supply)
2 Bath mats
🍽️ Kitchen & Food Basics
Reusable water bottle
Coffee mug or thermos
Basic utensils (fork, spoon, knife)
Microwave-safe bowl and plate
Non-perishable snacks from home (check customs rules!)
Instant coffee, tea, or seasoning you love
👕 Laundry & Cleaning
Laundry bag or basket
Detergent pods (easy to carry)
Dryer sheets (optional)
Disinfectant wipes or all-purpose spray
Paper towels or cloth rags
Hangers for your clothes
🧠 Study & Organization
Notebooks or folders
Pens, highlighters, sticky notes
Laptop and charger
Adapter to make sure that you’re not buying a new charger for each of your electronics
Desk organizer
Power strip (U.S. voltage!)
Alarm clock (or phone app)
🛠️ Dorm Tools & Extras
Command hooks or adhesive strips (most dorms don’t allow nails!)
Extension cord or surge protector
Small trash bin and liners
Tissues
Storage bins or organizers
🎁 Personal Touches to Make It Feel Like Home
College is more than just classes; it’s your new home. These extras will help you feel grounded, especially in those first few weeks.
Printed photos of family & friends
A flag or small souvenir from your home country
Favorite snack or tea from home
Mini playlist to share with roommates
Cozy blanket or throw
🎒 What Not to Pack
To save space and avoid issues at customs or TSA, leave these behind:
🚫 Bulky electronics (heaters, rice cookers, check your school rules)
🚫 Cleaning supplies in large bottles (buy them locally)
🚫 Full-size toiletries (heavy and easy to find in the U.S.)
🚫 Too many clothes: you’ll shop while you’re here!
🚫 Bed sheets that aren’t Twin XL: they won’t fit!
✨ Want to Make Move-In Easier?
We offer ready-to-go bedding and dorm essential kits shipped directly to your school, so you can skip the stress and feel at home from day one.
🎒 🛏️ Order Your International Student Essentials Kit Now →
Final Tip: Pack Light, Plan Smart
Your college years are going to be unforgettable. With this checklist, you’ll arrive prepared, confident, and ready to settle in, even if you're thousands of miles from home.
