Navigating dorm life (and fitting your whole life in a tiny dorm room) can be daunting. Luckily, when it comes to the necessary items (like sheets and a shower caddy) and the creature comforts (a cordless vacuum and desk mirror, for instance), we've done the homework for you. All of the items on our list can be easily purchased on Amazon so you don't have to spend extra time shopping or waiting for packages.
We've also made every effort to ensure all of the items on this list work for someone on a college budget, so most of these products cost less than $100 -- save for a few things like a waterproof speaker and gigantic throw blanket that are worth the splurge. That means you won't have to spend all of your hard-earned summer money on these wish list items. Also, the majority of the products are available with quick Amazon Prime shipping, so even if you're ordering at the last minute, they should arrive by the time move-in day rolls around. (If you don't have a Prime subscription, now might be the time to sign up for a free trial.)
Amazon dorm room essentials under $25
Space-saving hangers Most dorm room closets aren't exactly spacious, so these space-saving hangers -- each capable of holding nine garments -- are a game-changer. The rotating hooks let you hang garments horizontally for drying and vertically for maximizing space. They're one of those things you never knew you needed, then you can't function without them. If your parents are concerned about the number of suitcases you're bringing on move-in day, these are for you. $14 at Amazon Close
Hanging photo display Being away from home (especially for the first time) can be a big adjustment. Filling your dorm room with photos of your loved ones is a great way to feel connected to your family and friends and also decorate your dorm room. This hanging display is easy to put up, holds 24 photos total (between two strands) and will go well with any other decor you choose for your space. It's also easy to swap out pictures on the little clips so you can update the photos as you make new memories. $10 at Amazon Close
Clip-on light If you're a night owl but don't want to have to turn on bright overhead lights or disturb a roommate at night, then this clip-on light may be just the thing you need. It can clip onto your headboard or desk and provide enough light for any late-night studying or social media scrolling. It's battery-operated, so it doesn't come with any pesky cords either. $15 at Amazon Close
Portable shower caddy tote The shower caddy is a small but mighty addition to the dorm room shopping list. Students can stock it with their favorite products and haul it to and fro. (OK, just to the bathroom and back.) This one has plenty of room for shampoo, lotion and other toiletries. Bonus: Color combos include teal and orange, navy and mustard, or the more subdued solid apricot or gray. $16 at Amazon Close
Bedside storage caddy Space is tight in most dorm rooms, and a night stand is a luxury only few are given. A storage caddy that hangs on the side of your bed allows you to use your laptop, read and snack before bed without the inconvenience of getting up and putting everything away. Now you can do it all without ever leaving your bed. $15 at Amazon Close
Long charging cable Outlets can be a scarcity in dorm rooms and there's nothing worse than not keeping your phone nearby while it's charging. Speaking from personal experience, having to sit near the nearest outlet while your phone is charging, rather than comfortably scrolling in bed, is awful. Long phone chargers fix the obstacles that lofted dorm beds and limited outlets raise. $7 at Amazon Close
Vanity desk mirror The most important thing to do when setting up your dorm is to be sure you're making the most of an often small space. A desk vanity mirror was a lifesaver for me when I was living in my college dorm. A small vanity mirror is perfect for doing your makeup or hair without having to use a bathroom mirror. $17 at Amazon Close
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