Moving into a dorm can feel overwhelming with endless decisions about what to pack and buy. This practical guide cuts through the confusion by helping you identify exactly what you need, what can wait, and how to maximize your small space.

Inside you’ll find proven checklists and measurements to take before move-in day, along with smart storage solutions that work in tight quarters. Skip the impulse purchases and the regret—just the essentials you’ll actually use.

• Pre-move-in questions for your housing office
• Room, closet, door, and under-bed measurement checklist
• Essentials lists by category: bedding, power, bathroom, laundry, study, storage
• Small-space storage ideas and layout tips
• Packing priority checklist to avoid overspending