Packing List

 

Yimei Zhao (left) (Questrom 26) and Madison Liu (Questrom 26) move back to campus on Sunday, August 31, 2025.
Photo by Jackie Ricciardi for Boston University

What should you bring to your first year of college? With recommendations from students and parents, we have developed this college packing list.

Bath

  • Bath Robe 
  • Shower Caddy 
  • Washcloths
  • Bath/Hand Towels 
  • Shower Shoes/ Flip-Flops 
  • Slippers 
  • Toiletries 
  • Hair Dryer

    Laundry

    • Laundry Detergent
    • Laundry Bag/Basket
    • Dry Rack
    • Lint Brush
    • Sewing Kit 
    • Stain Remover 
    • Hangers

    Kitchen

    • Travel Mug 
    • Ceramic Mug 
    • Plates & Bowels 
    • Silverware 
    • Tupperware 
    • Water Bottle
    • Can Opener 

    Health/Cleaning 

    • Thermometer 
    • Disinfecting Wipes 
    • First Aid Kit 
    • Hand Sanitizer 
    • Over the Counter Medicine
    • Prescription Medicine (if needed)
    • Cleaning Supplies

    Miscellaneous

    • Small Fan 
    • Trash Can/ Recycling Bin
    • Backpack 
    • Umbrella 
    • Ear Plugs 
    • Essential Tool Kit 
    • Desk Accessories 
    • Hanging Shoes/Sweater Racks 
    • Command Hooks 
    • Decorations

    Technology

    • Laptop/Accessories 
    • Headphones 
    • Device Chargers
    • Power strip with built in circuit breakers
      • 15 amps rating
      • 14-gauge wire
      • Built in circuit breaker
      • 1875 watts maximum power
      • UL listed

      Sleep

      • Twin XL sheets 
      • Pillows 
      • Comforter 
      • Blankets 
      • Mattress Cover/Pad
      • Storage Bins 

      You may rent the following from BU Vending Services and save your back from hauling them yourself!

      • Microfridge
      • Electronic safe

      Here’s what not to bring!

      • Personal Printers
      • Candles or Incense
      • Cinder Blocks 
      • Extension Cords 
      • Microwave 
      • Heating/ Food Preparation Appliances 
      • Coffee Maker
      • Sun Lamp
      • Hoverboards 
      • Air Conditioner
      • Electric Blanket 
      • Grills
      • Wireless Hub
      • Any devices that do not support enterprise login with both a username and password.
      • Home Automation Devices – (examples include smart bulbs, security cameras, smart plugs).
      • Additional unsupported devices are listed under the following link.

      For more information, visit Housing’s packing suggestions.