As Transylvania University students head to campus in the next few weeks, they’ve got a handy list of what to bring and what to leave at home.
Packing smartly will especially help new students settle into college life by cutting down on distractions during their first few weeks — so they don’t have to worry about scrambling for sunscreen or containers to store leftover food, for instance.
In general, though, residential students should err on the side of not bringing too much stuff with them. And they should talk with their roommates before arriving to reduce the chances of redundant items such as two microwaves.
Transylvania’s incoming Class of 2028 moves onto campus Aug. 23, followed by First Engagements orientation from Aug. 24-29. Returning students arrive Sept. 1-2, and fall classes start Sept. 3. Get the latest info on housing and dining.
Packing list
RESIDENCE HALL ROOMS
- Extra-long twin bedding
- Pillows and comfort items
- Mattress pad
- Hangers
- Laundry supplies
- Basic cleaning supplies
- Small vacuum or broom
- Storage containers
- Decorations (rugs, posters, lamps, etc.)
RANDOM
- Tacks/small nails for hanging items
- Microwave (max 700 watts)
- Mini fridge (max 4 cubic ft.)
- Travel mug/reusable water bottle
- Dish soap/sponge
- Coffee maker with automatic shutoff
- Photo ID
- Bank cards/necessary financial documentation
- Personal items for entertainment
- Dishes/cookware/utensils
- Food storage containers
ELECTRONICS
- TV with cables
- Chargers for all devices
- Laptop/desktop computer
- Headphones or speakers
THE ESSENTIALS
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss and mouthwash
- Small first-aid kit
- Prescriptions and OTC medications
- Sunscreen
- Tissues
- Q-tips/cotton balls
- Hair products and hair dryer
- Nail clippers
- Shower caddy and shower supplies
- Shower shoes
- Towel(s) and wrap/robe
- Deodorant
CLOTHING
- Seasonal gear (including shoes)
- Interview/business outfits
- Transy swag
- Umbrella/rain coat
- Belts
SCHOOL SUPPLIES
- Highlighters
- Folders
- Notebooks
- Index cards
- Post-it notes
- Planner or calendar
- Desk organizer
- Stapler, pens, dry erase markers and paper
- Calculator
- Bag or backpack for class
WHAT NOT TO BRING
- Toasters, indoor grills, air fryers, anything with an exposed heating element, candles, hot plates, space heaters and toaster ovens
- More clothes than you need (or that you can bring later)
- A printer — every building has one
- Animals — except fish in a 5 gallon or less tank and pre-approved animals registered through our disability services office
- Extra furniture — many students loft their beds to make room for additional furniture, but all the furniture in the room must stay there
- Duplicates of what your roommate is bringing — communicate beforehand so you don’t end up with two of everything
- Command strips — they peel paint and ruin drywall
- Prohibited items listed in the student handbook (e.g., fireworks, weapons, etc.)