Hello everyone! I am Blythe Hattenbach, daughter of co-founder Linda Hattenbach. I just graduated from high school as a member of the senior class of 2020 and am mere days away from beginning college. I will be a freshman at the University of Vermont this fall. I know! Very off-brand and I’ve already been chastised for it. However, I do feel I am being appropriately mocked for my choice in schools in my mom’s own cruel ways. She is paying me for my help on her business with a free supply of CU jewelry. Oh, Joy!

Anyways, I have been asked to write a post about starting college, particularly the packing aspect of the process. I am finding this to be a slightly stressful endeavor exacerbated by the fact that I am moving halfway across the country. I just don’t know what I need! Do I bring all my clothes? Do I bring my winter stuff after semester break? What am I supposed to do with my skis? Hopefully, shipping costs from Colorado to Vermont aren’t too high. I do finally think I am making progress in my packing. Much to parent’s dismay, the progress is a result of an eleven-page list of everything I could possibly need while living on my own. I may have to spend the thirty-hour drive to Vermont on the roof of the car.

 

For those moving on to campus this fall, how was the packing process for you? What is one item that you think most people forget to add to their list? What is the one item you can’t live without?

 

Here’s my list of Dorm Room Essentials:

 

Clothes – Summer and Fall (includes comfy clothes, swimsuit, raincoat, athletic wear, jackets/coats)

 

Shoes – tennis shoes, sandals, boots, rainboots, flip flops/shower shoes, cozy socks, slippers

 

Bedding (pillows, sheets, comforter, protector) blankets, pillows, towels, washcloths (extra sets)

 

Decor for dorm room

  • Cork bulletin board
  • Small lamp for desk
  • Chair(s), poof, ottomon, stool
  • Personal items for wall (no nails)
  • Throw rug
  • Trash can
  • String and other lights
  • Mirror
  • Photo frames 
  • Pretty blankets and throw pillows

 

Technology: Laptop, printer, cords, phone, charger, kindle, speakers and headphones

 

Laundry: laundry basket, quarters, detergent, lint brush, stain remover, bleach pen

 

School supplies: Pens, pencils, notebooks, tape, ruler, calculator, scissors, erasers, clips, stapler, organizers

 

Beauty Supplies: Cosmetics, shampoo, conditioner, hair products, lotion, makeup, tissues, toothbrush, toothpaste, tweezers, shavers, deodorant, sunscreen, clippers, etc.

 

Food items:  Coffee maker, dishes, cups, utensils, water bottle, mug, food storage, chip clips

 

Emergency: Back up credit card, batteries, umbrella, first aid kit, tool kit, flashlight, etc.

 

Cleaning supplies: cleaners, vacuum cleaner, broom/dustpan, cloths, paper towels

 

Organizers: Closet organizer, hangers, desk organizer, beauty organizer, baskets, etc.

 

Check to see if these are allowed in your dorm:

  • Curtains or blinds
  • Dorm fridge
  • Microwave
  • A/C or swamp cooler if weather is warm
  • Box Fan