Cal Shin

Dartmouth Debunked, Part 2: Packing

One question that gets commonly asked around this time of year is: What should I bring to college, and what should I leave home? There is a lot of information floating around online about what students should and should not bring—some of which is useful, and others, well, not so much. 

My first piece of advice: Don't overpack. Trust me. You will buy a lot of stuff at Dartmouth, and it is much more convenient that way. There's a 24-hour CVS Pharmacy within walking distance, and a Walmart and Target a short, free bus ride away located in West Lebanon. There is no need to physically make your way to Walmart either—Dartmouth accepts Walmart.com orders, which are delivered straight through your Hinman box. Amazon is another popular source, and you'll get your Amazon delivery within 5 days, if not less—and that's without Amazon Prime!

Pictured above comprehensive map of all Advanced Transit bus routes. Make sure to plan your trip with https://advancetransit.com/

I advise you to use your judgment on what to bring with you and what to buy. Your method of transportation (i.e. car vs. airplane) will influence your decision on what and how much you will bring. Below is a basic, non-comprehensive checklist of what I deem necessary. 

Bedding: At least 1 set of twin XL sheets, a mattress pad, pillow(s), pillowcase(s), and blanket(s).

Clothing: The basics (undergarments, socks, shirts, long-sleeves, pants, shoes, sleepwear…whatever you normally wear), 1 set of semi-formal clothing (think business casual), 1 set of professional attire (top, bottom, shoes), and shoes. Don't forget about hangers as well! 

Winter clothes: If you have good winter clothes, bring them! I suggest at least 1 thick jacket, 1 jacket you wouldn't mind losing or getting dirty, 1 pair of boots, 1 scarf, and 1 pair of mittens. No worries if you don't have proper winter clothes—there is an L.L. Bean nearby that sells all of these items of clothing. Students receiving high levels of financial aid will receive free L.L. Bean gift cards so they can buy winter clothing without it posing an additional financial burden. 

School supplies: Backpack, any electronics (laptop, tablet), scissors, a small stapler, tape, graphing calculator, pens, pencils, highlighters, folders, etc. 

Shower & hygiene products: Shower shoes (think flip-flops or Crocs), shower caddy (to hold your hygiene products in), bathrobe, bath towels, nail clippers, shampoo, conditioner, and skincare products. Traveling by flight? Bring a travel-sized version of shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrush, conditioner, and whatever else you need to last you the first few days, then purchase full-size versions of these products at CVS, Walmart, or Target. 

Dorm: Clorox wipes or similar, 1 roll of kitchen towels, mesh laundry bag, laundry detergent, and dryer sheets. 

Documents: Bring your physical Social Security card, birth certificate, and/or passport if at any point you want a job at Dartmouth. It doesn't matter if you have those details memorized. Upon being hired, you will need to go to the Dartmouth Payroll office to fill out a document called the I9, which requires those forms of identification. You can find more details here. 

But what about a trash can/trash bags/vacuum/mini fridge/storage organizers/storage drawers? 
A trash can and a recycling bin are included in every dorm room, and trash bags can usually be found in each bathroom or trash room. Similarly, each floor should have a communal vacuum cleaner for residents to use. Some first-year dorms come with mini-fridges; please hold off on buying your own until 1) you can confirm that your dorm does not come with a mini-fridge and 2) you have made arrangements with your roommate(s) regarding shared items. Storage organizers and drawers can be helpful, but you do not need to bring them. If you find yourself needing more organizational space, you can always buy some upon your arrival. 

Here is a good list from the Office of Residential Life about what to bring, and here is a guide from a Dartmouth student on packing in an organized fashion, as well as tips for staying warm during the winter.