Two college students studying on the quad!

If you have a kid headed off to their first year at college, you may be feeling overwhelmed preparing them for dorm life. College is such a fun time and at GiftWorksPlus, we want to help take some of that stress away so you can focus on the excitement! That's why we went ahead and compiled our "Dorm Must-Haves", so you can get your shopping list ready to go!

Dorm Must-Haves for Freshman Year

  1. A Small Fan.
    Lots of freshman dorms don’t have air conditioning, and they don’t typically have much space either! You’ll want to pick up a small fan for the desk or bedside table. Especially during that first week when weather still feels like summer, that fan will be put to good use - trust us! 
  2. Plastic Dishes and Cutlery.
    Living in the dorms can mean eating a lot instant meals so a collection of solid, microwavable bowls and plates are a must. Be sure to pack cutlery as well!
  3. Extra Sheets.
    Nothing is worse than enjoying a late-night snack in bed and then spilling all over your sheets without being able to change them! When you go through your shopping list, this would be a good one to hit twice. 
  4. Ear Plugs.
    Sometimes quiet hours just don’t get enforced like they should. If there’s a party going on in the hall and your child is trying to get in some studying or shut-eye, they’ll definitely want a pair of comfy ear plugs!
  5. Disinfectant Wipes.
    We all know how fast germs can spread, especially in a dorm room. Once one person catches a cold, it feels like it's only a matter of time until the whole floor has it. Pick up some disinfectant wipes to help keep spaces clean just in case the roommate starts sniffling. 

Frame Your Memories With GiftWorksPlus

While move-in day can be hectic, we know that freshman year brings plenty of fun experiences and great memories! If you’re looking for a perfect first day of school gift, be sure to check out our college and school frames at GiftWorksPlus. We have designs for plenty of different universities and even customizable frames for a specific school of your choice. What better way to remind your kid to call home and check in than a framed photo of the two of you on their desk? Check them out today! Oh, and have a great school year!