Every year, without fail, I notice this trend. College freshmen arrive on campus full of excitement, anxiety, and a cart full of random things they think they will need. Then, a couple of weeks later, those random things are dusty on their shelf while they’re running to the store to get things they actually need.
College is not high school. Between classes, homework, spending time with friends, managing your life responsibilities, and living on your own away from parents for the first time, college can be stressful. Starting with the right supplies can help you stay prepared and organized throughout the year.
Below is my list of 35 things university students actually use and love. No matter if you live in a dorm room, commute, or are going into your first year of college, these products can help you stay productive, comfortable, and prepared.
35 University Back-to-School Shopping List Essentials
1. Laptop
When it comes to college shopping lists, a laptop is probably the most essential item.
You will need a computer for assignments, research, online courses, presentations, and communicating with professors. Invest in something that fits your needs and don’t just buy the biggest and most expensive version.
Purchase a laptop that will support your academic success all four years of college.
2. Laptop Backpack
You want to make sure your laptop is protected.
Having a good backpack with padded sections for your computer is essential. It also provides you with room to bring your chargers, books, and daily supplies.
Make sure it’s comfortable and durable because you will be using it every day.
Read also: 6 Essential Things to Do Before School Starts
3. Notebooks
Yes, even in this day and age, college students use notebooks.
Especially if you like to handwrite your notes. They come in handy when you’re in class, brainstorming, meeting with friends to study, or when it’s just not convenient to take out your laptop.
Buy a notebook for each of your main subjects to help stay organized.
4. Pens
Pens are necessary when it comes to college. You will be using them for classes, homework, signing documents, and more.
Always keep a few extras in your backpack because they have a way of mysteriously disappearing.
5. Mechanical Pencils
Mechanical pencils are great for math, science, engineering, and any other classes where you may have to make calculations.
They never break and don’t require sharpening like regular pencils. Simple, yet useful.
Read also: 6 Ways Your Unconscious Mind Rules Your Behavior
6. Highlighters
Highlighters are great to use when trying to study.
Pick out different colors to highlight definitions, formulas, important dates, test information, etc. This will truly help your study habits throughout the semester.
7. Binder
Buy a binder for each class to keep your papers organized.
It’s easy for class material to become messy if you don’t have some sort of filing system. Many college students use one large binder with dividers for each class.
8. Binder Dividers
Binder dividers will become your best friend.
Not only will they help you stay organized, but they help categorize each subject. When it’s time to study for a test, you will be able to quickly find the materials you need.
9. Sticky Notes
Sticky notes are great for reminders or bookmarking pages.
College students use them for just about anything. Some like to stick them in their planners or use them as study reminders.
Read also: How to Start Reading Books_10 Steps
10. Planner
If you haven’t realized by now, college can be hectic.
Use a planner to keep track of your class schedule, deadlines, exams, meetings, and any personal obligations you may have.
Time management is key when it comes to being a successful college student.
11. Desk Calendar
A desk calendar is helpful when you like to visualize things.
Use it to keep track of when your exams are, assignment due dates, and other important class related events.
12. Scientific Calculator
Some college courses require you to have a calculator.
Check your course requirements and see if you’ll need one for class. If you’re going into a math, engineering, business, or science related major, you will most likely need one.
13. USB Flash Drive
Cloud storage is great, but it’s always good to have backups.
USB drives are great for that extra storage of your assignments, presentations, and research.
14. Portable Hard Drive
College students tend to collect tons of videos, projects, and photos.
Get a portable hard drive for extra storage. It’s always good to have somewhere to store all your hard work.
15. Noise Cancelling Headphones
Between dorm life, the library, cafes, and shared apartments, it can be very noisy where you study.
Noise cancelling headphones are great to help block out distractions and help you focus.
16. Phone Charger
Phone chargers are something you never really know how much you need until your charger stops working.
Your phone is your lifeline to your campus. You use it for everything, so make sure to have a reliable charger.
17. Portable Power Bank
Your days can get long on campus. From classes to studying and traveling back and forth.
A power bank is great to help keep your phone charged when your phone battery drains.
18. Reusable Water Bottle
Did you know staying hydrated helps with focus and energy?
Invest in a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and help you save money on buying bottled drinks.
19. Travel Coffee Mug
Stay fueled on coffee (or tea) runs.
A travel coffee mug is great for staying warm on those early morning classes or long studying nights.
20. Desk Lamp
College dorms and apartments don’t always come with the best lighting.
Buy a desk lamp to help you focus when studying and help prevent eye strain during those late night study sessions.
21. Storage Bins
In college, storage can be limited, especially if you are living in a dorm.
Storage bins help you stay organized with clothes, supplies, snacks, and anything else you may have lying around your room.
22. Laundry Basket
Laundry will be part of your life whether you like it or not.
Get a laundry basket to help you keep your dirty clothes organized and help your room look neater.
23. Twin XL Bedding
Make sure to check what size beds your university dorm has.
Twin XL is standard for most colleges. Buy the correct bedding that will fit the mattress.
24. Mattress Topper
Nothing’s worse than sleeping on a hard mattress.
Buy a mattress topper to help soften your bed and give you that extra comfort you’re looking for.
25. Shower Caddy
If you will be using shared bathrooms, grab a shower caddy.
It helps keep all of your shower supplies in one place while making it more convenient for you to take showers.
26. Towels
Buy extra towels. You’ll thank me later.
Towel emergencies are the worst, and you never realize how much you use them until you run out. Make sure to buy a few extras so you always have a backup.
27. Basic First Aid Kit
You will get sick, cut yourself, or hurt yourself at some point.
Bring along a basic first aid kit for those situations. You’ll save yourself trips to the store if you have bandages and pain relievers.
28. Snacks
Late night studying and hunger happen.
Stock up your room with some of your favorite snacks. Not only is it convenient, but it saves you money.
29. Mini Refrigerator
Mini refrigerators are great for storing snacks, drinks, and easy meals.
If it’s allowed in your dorm, you will use it all the time.
30. Microwave
Microwaves are great when you are on the go.
They are super convenient when you find yourself eating quick meals or heating up leftovers during the semester.
Make sure it’s allowed in your dorm.
31. Surge Protector
Outlets are limited in dorm rooms.
Buy a surge protector to allow you to plug in all of your electronics while protecting them from power spikes.
32. Printer
While most professors allow you to turn in assignments online, you’ll find that you’ll need a printer once in college.
Save yourself the hassle of running to the library to print things out by buying your own printer.
33. Cleaning Supplies
Trust me when I say this. Your room will get dirty.
Buy some cleaning supplies to help you wipe down your desk, clean up spills, and maintain a clean environment.
It’s easier to study when you’re not distracted by messy rooms.
34. Small Toolkit
You never know when something in your room will need fixing.
Keep a small toolkit in your room with basic screwdrivers, scissors, etc. to help you with those “just in case” moments.
35. Comfortable Study Chair Cushion
Studying for hours can get uncomfortable after a while.
Pick up a comfy chair cushion to help relieve discomfort during those long study sessions.
Conclusion
Heading to university doesn’t mean you have to buy every single back to school product out there. While many items are marketed towards college students, they’re not always practical or necessary.
The shopping list above includes things college students actually find helpful and use throughout the year. Rather than buying everything you see, buy what you know you will use.
The right school supplies won’t get you an A in college, but they will help you stay organized, prepared, and hopefully make your time in university a bit easier while supporting your academic success.
FAQ
What is the most important item for university students?
A reliable laptop is often considered the most important item because it supports assignments, research, communication, and online learning.
Do university students need a printer?
Not always, but having one can save time and provide convenience when printed assignments or study materials are required.
What should first-year university students buy for a dorm?
Essential dorm purchases include bedding, storage bins, toiletries, a laundry basket, a desk lamp, and organizational supplies.
How can students save money on back-to-school shopping?
Prioritize essentials, compare prices, buy during sales, and avoid purchasing items that may not actually be needed.
What school supplies do most university students use regularly?
Notebooks, pens, planners, laptops, chargers, headphones, binders, and water bottles are among the most frequently used items.
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