Top 18 Things you Don't Want to Forget to Bring to College

1. Cleaning supplies – Multipurpose cleaner and easy-to-use products like hand vacs and Swiffer sweepers are key. You’ll be surprised how quickly your dorm floor gets dirty. Also, bring extra laundry detergent. It’s more expensive than you think—take advantage of your parents buying it for you now.

2. iPod docking station – Perfect for dorm rooms. And you and your roommate can alternate your iPods.

3. Ethernet cable, extension chords and power strips – No matter how many outlets you have, it won’t be enough. And where you want to put your TV is almost always on the direct opposite side of the room where the outlet is.

4. Quarters – You’ll be surprised how glad you are to have a quarter collection come laundry day. Plus, some college dorms don’t give you change without requiring a purchase.

5. GPS – If you’re moving to a new city, you don’t want to have to rely on Mapquest or Google Maps to get everywhere. Let’s face it—sites like this often get you quite turned around.

6. Ear plugs – I can’t tell you how vital ear plugs are. Whether it’s nap time and your neighbors are hammering nails or it’s a Tuesday night and there’s a party next door, you’re guaranteed to need them.

7. Digital camera – You’re going to have a lot of great memories in college so it’s important to document them with a camera. Also, I recommend one of the new Olympus waterproof digital cameras. Whether it ends up in the toilet bowl or the punch bowl, you’ll be glad it’s waterproof.

8. Duct Tape – So underrated. From covering up chords to hanging posters on the wall—you’ll need it.

9. Personal information – Your car and health insurance paperwork, Social Security card, Passport, AAA card, checkbook, etc. College was the first time I realized how much I needed a checkbook. They’re expensive, too, so have your parents get them for you before you leave.

10. Tools – I thought a tool kit was the lamest graduation gift EVER, but I can’t tell you how many times my roommates came running to me for a screwdriver or hammer.

11. Dorm vault and laptop safe – Unfortunately, college dorms are notorious for theft, especially if you have suite mates or unlocked doors. Keep your valuables locked up at all times—it’s a pain, but you’ll be thankful later.

12. Can opener – This is definitely one of those things that completely slipped my mind. You’ll be sorry when you’re on your last can of soup with no opener.

13. Printer paper – When you’re late for class and haven’t printed out that paper you finished at 3 a.m., you’re going to be glad you have extra printer paper. But don’t bring too much. You won’t have room and you won’t use as much as your family does at home.

14. Anti-virus and security – Your computer is even more susceptible to viruses and hackers when using insecure networks that are on most campuses. You’ll realize why you did it when your roommate’s computer crashes right before finals and you’re good to go.

15. Umbrella – It’s easy to forget if you’re packing during a summer drought, but you never want to be that person who shows up soaking wet to a freezing auditorium for class.

16. Vitamins – Just in case you’re not getting them all in your new college diet. Also, yet another one of those items that a college student doesn’t have room for in their budget.

17. Stapler – I recommend the small, portable kind. You’ll be surprised how many weird professors dock heavy points for missing staples.

18. Voice recorder – One of the easiest ways to take notes in class. You won’t miss a beat or have to worry about writer’s cramp.