Starting college is an exciting time in any young man’s life, but it can also be overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time living on your own. Living off campus has many benefits, but having your own apartment requires a little more forethought than just showing up at a dorm room with your laptop and some bedding.
Having the right things with you when you move into your own place can help alleviate some of the stress that comes with a major life change, and set you up for success as you begin your studies. Here we provide a packing list of items for guys that can help you make the transition from living with your parents to living on your own a little bit smoother.
1. Functional Furniture
First on the list is furniture. It’s hard to study effectively if you don’t have a desk where you can study or a bed where you can sleep. Here are the key things every college guy needs to get their off-campus apartment ready for the semester:
- Living Room: sofa, coffee table, side tables, lamps, TV stand
- Bedroom: bed, nightstand, bedside lamp, dresser
- Study Area: desk, desk chair, lamp, bookcase
- Dining: dining table, dining chairs
2. Kitchen Essentials
Kitchen items are one of the college apartment essentials for guys that may be overlooked, especially if you haven’t cooked much at home. You probably don’t need everything you would find in your kitchen at home, but here are some of the basics you won’t want to miss.
- Appliances: coffee maker or electric kettle, microwave, mini-fridge
- Dishware: glasses, coffee mugs, bowls, plates
- Cookware: pots, pans, baking tin
- Cutlery: flatware, kitchen knives
- Other Essentials: cutting board, oven mitt, kitchen towel
3. Bathroom Must-Haves
When moving into a new place, one of the last things you’ll think to pack — but one of the first things you’ll actually need — is toilet paper. Along with TP and your toiletries, there are a few other things you’ll want to put on your list of bathroom college apartment essentials for guys.
- Towels
- Washcloths
- Shower curtain/liner
- Bath rug
- Toilet Paper
4. Storage and Cleaning Supplies
It’s easier to concentrate on schoolwork and important responsibilities when you’re not tripping over clothes, shoes, and books. But keeping your apartment clean and tidy requires the right storage solutions and cleaning supplies.
- Clothing Storage: closet organizer, shoe storage, hangers
- General Storage: storage bins, under bed storage bins
- Cleaning Tools: paper towels, sponges, dishcloths, broom, dustpan, vacuum, mop
- Cleaning Solutions: all-surface cleaner, glass cleaner, liquid dish soap, floor cleaner, toilet cleaner
- Trash: trashcans for bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen; trash bags
5. Laundry Necessities
Hopefully, your first semester at college won’t be the first time you have to wash your own clothes. But whether this is your first foray into the wonderful world of laundering or not, there are a few things you’ll need to keep your clothes smelling fresh and looking crisp.
- Laundry hamper
- Laundry detergent
- Dryer sheets
- Drying rack
- Quarters (if you have to use a laundromat)
6. Comfortable Bedding
Among lists for college apartment bedroom ideas for guys, you’ll probably find plenty of tips for how to express your personality with band and sports team posters. However, there are a few essential items that you’ll need (like bed linens) to ensure your bedroom is a place you can get quality rest as you tackle your studies.
- Pillows
- Pillowcases
- Comforter
- Bedspread
- Blankets
- 1 or 2 sets of sheets
7. Entertainment
Finally, you’re sure to be working hard your first year at university, but that doesn’t mean you don’t need some time to decompress. Here are a few entertainment items you’ll want to include on your packing list to help you take your mind off the stress of challenging assignments, and the ever-dreaded exams.
- TV & remote
- HDMI cords
- TV cables
- Extension cord
- Cell phone
- Cell phone charger
Make Move-In Day a Snap With CORT
Make college move-in day the easiest it’s ever been with CORT Furniture Rental! Forget lugging furniture from home to your college apartment. With CORT Furniture Rental, you can create a custom furniture subscription package for the school year.
The process is easy: simply select the furniture you need, determine how long you’ll need it for, then schedule a delivery date. Our crew will deliver and professionally set up your furniture, so you don’t have to throw out your back. When your subscription is complete, we’ll pick up the furniture and take it away. Start curating your college apartment furniture subscription package online today.