The Storage Squad Blog
College Shipping Tips & Student Storage Advice
The Storage
Squad Blog
College Shipping Tips &
Student Storage Advice
Top 5 Dorm Room Essentials for First-Year Students (That Also Make Great Gifts)
Perfect for college freshmen, thoughtful family gifts, or your own move-in checklist.
Move-in day can feel overwhelming — for students and parents alike. Whether you’re a parent planning ahead, a family member looking for a graduation gift, or a first-year student wondering what you’ll actually use in your dorm, this list is for you.
These five essentials are the most useful, most wanted, and most commonly shipped items students rely on — and over the next few weeks, we’ll be reviewing top-rated versions of each.
Top 5 Dorm Room Essentials for First-Year Students
(That Also Make Great Gifts)
Perfect for college freshmen, thoughtful family gifts, or your own move-in checklist.
Move-in day can feel overwhelming — for students and parents alike. Whether you’re a parent planning ahead, a family member looking for a graduation gift, or a first-year student wondering what you’ll actually use in your dorm, this list is for you.
These five essentials are the most useful, most wanted, and most commonly shipped items students rely on — and over the next few weeks, we’ll be reviewing top-rated versions of each.
1. Mini Fridge
A college staple that keeps snacks cold, leftovers safe, and roommates from stealing your soda.
What to Look For:
-
Capacity vs. Size – Under 3.2 cu. ft. is ideal for most dorm rules
-
Freezer Compartment – Separate freezer section = major bonus
-
Noise Level – Look for reviews mentioning “quiet” if sleeping nearby
Typical Price Range: $90–$160
1. Mini Fridge
A college staple that keeps snacks cold, leftovers safe, and roommates from stealing your soda.
What to Look For:
Capacity vs. Size – Under 3.2 cu. ft. is ideal for most dorm rules
Freezer Compartment – Separate freezer section = major bonus
Noise Level – Look for reviews mentioning “quiet” if sleeping nearby
Typical Price Range: $90–$160
2. Twin XL Bedding Set
Dorm beds are almost always Twin XL — standard twin sheets will not fit. Send a full bedding set to help them start off cozy and prepared.
What to Look For:
Correct Size – Make sure it’s labeled “Twin XL” specifically
Breathable Fabric – Cotton blends or microfiber for year-round comfort
Includes Essentials – Look for bundles with fitted sheet, comforter, and pillowcases
Typical Price Range: $35–$90
2. Twin XL Bedding Set
Dorm beds are almost always Twin XL — standard twin sheets will not fit. Send a full bedding set to help them start off cozy and prepared.
What to Look For:
Correct Size – Make sure it’s labeled “Twin XL” specifically
Breathable Fabric – Cotton blends or microfiber for year-round comfort
Includes Essentials – Look for bundles with fitted sheet, comforter, and pillowcases
Typical Price Range: $35–$90
3. Storage Bins & Underbed Containers
Smart storage makes tiny dorm rooms live-able. Underbed bins and stackable drawers are a must.
What to Look For:
Stackability – Saves space and reduces clutter
Underbed Clearance Fit – Measure clearance height (usually 6–8″)
Clear Sides or Labels – Makes finding things easier in tight spaces
Typical Price Range: $20–$50 per set or unit
3. Storage Bins & Underbed Containers
Smart storage makes tiny dorm rooms live-able. Underbed bins and stackable drawers are a must.
What to Look For:
Stackability – Saves space and reduces clutter
Underbed Clearance Fit – Measure clearance height (usually 6–8″)
Clear Sides or Labels – Makes finding things easier in tight spaces
Typical Price Range: $20–$50 per set or unit
4. Surge Protector / Power Strip
Outlets are few, and dorms often ban extension cords. A dorm-approved surge protector is a necessity.
What to Look For:
Surge Protection Rating – Not just a power strip; look for joule ratings
USB Ports – Built-in USB helps charge devices without brick adapters
Flat Plug & Long Cord – Flat heads fit behind beds, and long cords reach awkward outlets
Typical Price Range: $15–$35
4. Surge Protector / Power Strip
Outlets are few, and dorms often ban extension cords. A dorm-approved surge protector is a necessity.
What to Look For:
Surge Protection Rating – Not just a power strip; look for joule ratings
USB Ports – Built-in USB helps charge devices without brick adapters
Flat Plug & Long Cord – Flat heads fit behind beds, and long cords reach awkward outlets
Typical Price Range: $15–$35
5. Fan or Air Purifier
Dorms can be hot, stuffy, or full of allergens. A compact fan or purifier keeps the air fresh and sleep-friendly.
What to Look For:
Noise Level – Fans that double as white noise are a win
Oscillation or Airflow Reach – Especially for shared rooms
Compact Footprint – Small bases or vertical towers save desk/floor space
Typical Price Range: $25–$70
5. Fan or Air Purifier
Dorms can be hot, stuffy, or full of allergens. A compact fan or purifier keeps the air fresh and sleep-friendly.
What to Look For:
Noise Level – Fans that double as white noise are a win
Oscillation or Airflow Reach – Especially for shared rooms
Compact Footprint – Small bases or vertical towers save desk/floor space
Typical Price Range: $25–$70
➡️ Know someone sending their student off to college?
Share this list with them to save them time, space, and move-in stress.
➡️ Know someone sending their student off to college?
Share this list with them to save them time, space, and move-in stress.
Want an easier way to ship gifts to your college student?
Skip carrying the mini fridge across campus and up three flights of stairs on move-in weekend.
With Room Direct, you can ship your online purchases directly to us — and we’ll deliver them to your student’s dorm room before they arrive.
Room Direct makes college move-in easier with:
✅ Direct-to-dorm delivery
✅ Affordable flat-rate shipping
✅ Free boxes and packing supplies
✅ Real tracking + real insurance
✅ More time to say goodbye, the right way
👉 Learn just how easy college shipping can be with Room Direct.
Want an easier way to ship gifts to your college student?
Skip carrying the mini fridge across campus and up three flights of stairs on move-in weekend.
With Room Direct, you can ship your online purchases directly to us — and we’ll deliver them to your student’s dorm room before they arrive.
Room Direct makes college move-in easier with:
✅ Direct-to-dorm delivery
✅ Affordable flat-rate shipping
✅ Free shipping supplies
✅ Real tracking + real insurance
✅ More time to say goodbye
👉 Learn just how easy college shipping can be with Room Direct.
Trusted by Universities nationwide— simplify college move-in with the best ship to school service.
