5 College Dorm Room Essentials Incoming Freshman Must Have

College life is crazy, spontaneous, and full of unexpected surprises. With so much going on all at once, there are certain items you'll want on hand for those impromptu moments. Whether you’re living in a dorm or a sorority house, these essentials will dramatically improve your hectic schedule, and you’ll be grateful you got them in advance!

1. Portable Speaker

There’s nothing worse than heading out for a picnic with your friends, only to realize no one brought a speaker, and you’re stuck playing music off your phone. A portable speaker is perfect for everything—from getting ready in the morning and taking a shower to hosting a pre-game with your friends. Playing your favorite new songs is a quick and easy way to elevate the vibe!

2. Air Fryer

Is there anything more disappointing than returning to your dorm after a late-night study session or a night out, only to find you have no snacks? While chips and ice cream are great, having an air fryer takes it to the next level. Not only is it perfect for those late-night cravings, but it also makes daily meal prep easier by reducing cleanup. It’s a must-have for anyone who isn’t a fan of using pots and pans.

3. Deep Sleep Mask

If you value your sleep like we do, you know how frustrating it is to get back late at night, hoping for a full seven hours of rest, only to be woken up early by light seeping through the blinds. The result? You spend the day feeling groggy and irritable, wishing you’d gotten more sleep. To prevent this, we recommend sleeping in complete darkness. Your room should be so dark that you can’t even see your hand in front of your face. The best way to block out unwanted light is with a Deep Sleep Mask by Owl Sleep Co -$65.

This mask not only blocks out all light but also boosts melatonin production, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. Made from the highest quality mulberry silk, it’s like a pillow for your eyes, offering both sleep and beauty benefits by reducing fine lines and dark circles. The adjustable straps make it easy to gently secure around your face, helping you drift off into a restful night’s sleep.

4. Mattress Topper

If you’re the first in your family to go to college, don’t make the mistake of arriving without a mattress topper. The mattress provided by the school is likely to be a basic plastic one—not exactly the most comfortable. The last thing you want after a long day is to get into bed and not feel relaxed. Invest in a mattress topper, and your time in bed will be much more enjoyable.

5. Handheld Vacuum

While most schools provide a communal vacuum, it’s often unavailable or stored in someone’s room who didn’t feel like returning it. For small spills or the dirt that accumulates from shoes, a handheld vacuum is more than enough. It’s a convenient solution to keep your space clean without the hassle of borrowing a bulky vacuum.