Don’t Forget These 20 Top College Essentials

Updated Aug 8, 2024 2:13 pm ET


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After a summer at home, it’s time to pack up and start a new semester at college. Whether you’re a freshman venturing out into the big blue world for the first time or entering your junior year with the hopes and dreams it goes a little easier for you, we know there’s a lot of planning and organizing happening right now. To make things easier for you, we’ve put together a college packing list of items that sometimes get forgotten when heading off to college.

From technology and gadgets to make your everyday life a little easier to dorm room essentials and personal care items, this comprehensive college packing list will help you stay on top of your game this semester.

Tech Gear

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation)

Whether you need them to re-listen to online lectures or find it impossible to walk across campus without some music, a pair of AirPods Pro is a must for college. In fact, they’ll likely become your number one companion, and you can get them now 24% off.

Apple AirTags

Wallet, dorm keys, book bag…you won’t have to worry about their location when they have an AirTag. It’s easy to forget where things are when you’re rushed or stressed, so move around campus with security knowing you at least know where your stuff is. And right now, these AirTags have a 14% discount.

Belkin Apple AirTag Secure Holder with Keyrings, Set of 4

The best way to add an AirTag to your dorm keys is with this handy keyring. This set of four is perfect for you to link to your other items or share with your friends.

Miady 2-Pack 10000mAh Dual USB Portable Charger

Sometimes, the nights are long and all the plugs in the library are taken. Keep your phone charged with a portable charger that doesn’t take up too much space in your backpack. What’s better? This two-pack is 18% off.

Around Campus

MATEIN Travel Laptop Backpack

Some people prefer to take notes in a notebook, while others prefer their laptop. Whatever the case, this backpack helps you store both a 15.6-inch laptop and your notebook. Plus, it’s 45% off right now.

IRON °FLASK Sports Water Bottle

It’s important to stay hydrated when walking—or sprinting—from class to class. Keep your water cooled with this handy, stainless steel water bottle that fits up to 22 ounces and is 17% off its original price.

YETI Rambler 14 oz Mug

Sometimes, you need to take your coffee on the go, so keep it warm with this stylish and highly coveted YETI mug. And don’t think it’s just for coffee or tea, this mug is also great for soup and oatmeal too.

Specialist ID Three Card Badge Holder

Take it from us, organization is the key to getting through the semester and that includes keeping your ID cards where you can easily find them. Get this badge holder instead of just tossing them in your bag.

SIEPASA Windproof Travel Compact Umbrella

There’s nothing worse than getting caught in the rain on campus and stepping into a cold classroom with wet socks. Yeah, we just cringed too. Get this compact umbrella in your favorite color and stay dry.

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Sunscreen SPF 60

Whether you’re just stepping outside for a couple of minutes or taking a longer trek, it’s important to apply sunscreen. This one by La Roche-Posay blends into your skin easily, has SPF 60 and is 23% off.

In The Dorm

Adidas Adilette Unisex Shower Slide Sandals

Do not—we repeat—do not step into dorm showers in your bare feet, please. Get these classic slide sandals from Adidas and keep the germs from your dorm’s communal showers at bay.

MZOO Sleep Eye Mask

Sleep is important to rest your brain and get good grades. This sleeping eye mask will block out any possible light and help you catch some quality zzz. Shop now for 31% off!

BRONAX Pillow Slippers for Women and Men

Your feet deserve to feel like they’re walking on clouds after jumping from class to class all day. Choose from one of the many colors available and treat yourself to comfort.

Tide Stain Remover for Clothes, To Go Pen

The Tide To-Go Pen is a game changer, a college essential and on sale. Accidents happen, so rest easy knowing you have something to clean that stain off your shirt before your crush sees you.

Lysol Disinfectant Wipes

The best way to avoid getting sick is to keep your space and things clean. These disinfectant wipes are easy to use, small enough to store in a drawer and a must-have to keep the germs away.

Personal Care

livho Blue Light Blocking Glasses, 2-Pack

Sitting in front of a computer for long periods can tire your eyes, so keep them happy using these blue light-blocking glasses. This two-pack is great; you can keep one with you at all times and another in your dorm, just in case.

AUVON Pill Box 2 Times a Day, Weekly Pill Organizer

Keep track of your daily pills and vitamins with this discounted weekly organizer. It’s an easy way to ensure you take what you need every day before class.

Manicure Set 10 in 1 Stainless Steel Tools Kit

Keep your nails, face and eyebrows looking great with this stainless steel set! For less than $10, you’ll get nail clippers, tweezers, an acne needle, eyebrow scissors and more, all stored in a compact leather case.

Kleenex On-The-Go Facial Tissues

From a sudden runny nose to dabbing away the sweat from your forehead or wiping crumbs off a table, these Kleenex tissues are a must in your college bag. They’re hypoallergenic and incredibly soft, and this deal comes as an eight-pack box set.

Johnson & Johnson Portable Emergency First Aid Kit

It’s always a good idea to have a portable first aid kit in your bag or dorm. This kit comes with 80 pieces and includes everything from gauze to adhesive bandages to Neosporin—everything you need to help yourself or someone else quickly. Shop now for 36% off.

Maria Correa is a writer who loves making information accessible to others and good storytelling. She began her career as a copywriter intern who had to Google “What is copywriting?” but has since gotten the opportunity to create dozens of print and social media campaigns for well-known international and local brands in English and Spanish. She’s also well-versed in the world of SEO writing. When she’s not writing articles, you’ll find Maria walking around her neighborhood in Puerto Rico, filling out the pages of a coloring book, and writing fiction stories.

Lauren Wilrich

Lauren Wilrich

Editor McClatchy Commerce

Lauren is a Commerce Updates Editor at McClatchy. She is based in Houston, Texas, and holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas at Dallas. Lauren has written for women’s accessories and home goods brands and has edited commerce content for numerous publications with a focus on home and kitchen gadgets, health, and beauty verticals. When she’s not editing, she can be found enjoying Houston’s restaurant scene and attempting DIY arts and crafting projects.