In just a few short weeks, thousands of college students will make their way back onto campus and move into their dorms. For many, this will be the first time they’ve stepped foot on campus for over a year, others are entering into the college realm for the first time. Packing in general is a stressful endeavor. You need to make sure that you pack enough to get through the semester (or at least until a break), but you can’t pack so much that there won’t be a place to store all of your belongings. It’s a delicate balance, and the difficulty amplifies when you are a student who does not have access to a car for quick Walmart runs.
This year, there’s the additional challenge of returning to the college campus after a year long battle with COVID-19. Whether you’re an incoming freshman or a college student who just endured the instability that COVID-19 brought, you’re likely feeling a bit unsure about what additional items you should pack for your dorm. Because of this widespread uncertainty, we’ve compiled a list of must-haves that college students should consider as they pack.
1. Thermometer
Although many are returning to face-to-face instruction, that doesn’t negate the fact that COVID-19 is still very much in our presence. The new Delta variant is wreaking havoc on towns and cities across the globe, so the diligence to isolate when feeling unwell is still necessary. Pack a thermometer and self-monitor your health. Many professors will likely offer zoom options in special circumstances to incentivize students to make health-conscious decisions regarding class attendance.
2. An abundance of snacks
The restaurant industry has taken a large hit as a result of COVID-19, which means that many are still operating on adjusted hours. Packing snacks will help you avoid the dissatisfaction that accompanies late-night hunger with no restaurant options.
3. Sanitary Bedding
If COVID has left us with anything, it’s the desire to disinfect. Many dorms are equipped with washers and dryers, but sometimes it is not feasible (or cost-effective) to wash bedding as often as one would like. Consider hygienic mattress toppers, such as sleepyhead’s copper topper. The memory foam mattress toppers have antimicrobial properties to help keep the germs at bay, and your health at its peak.
4. Sanitizers
Speaking of disinfectants, it wouldn’t hurt to stock up on cleaning supplies. Regular cleanings of your personal space are a must. Think about those high-touch areas like your desk, lights, remotes, and laptop. These are all areas where germs can lurk. We aren’t saying that you need to deep clean your dorm every single day, but wiping down high-touch surfaces with a disinfectant every day or two wouldn’t hurt. Additionally, don’t forget to stockpile that hand sanitizer to use when you’re out and about on campus and touching door handles and desks frequently.
5. Headphones
Headphones are an asset regardless of the state of the world, but they can be even more essential now. If there are days where your class is held virtually, handphones will help make the class more personal (and allow for your roommate to virtually attend class if they need to!)
We understand that there may be some anxiety surrounding the move back onto campus, and we sincerely hope that the transition is smooth. Take these tips and live day by day. Remember, you’re not alone and it’s okay to allow yourself to feel some stress!
