University housing staff offers a checklist of the items you shouldn't forget when packing for college

The calendar seems to be racing through summer to the start of back- to-school and fall rituals including move-in days, when campuses at Rutgers will become bustling centers of activity packed with students once again. 

In preparation for the rite of passage that is living in on-campus housing, check out the list below of what to pack for your home away from home from Student Affairs at Rutgers University-New Brunswick.

"We are excited to welcome our students back to campus very soon,'' said Salvador B. Mena, vice chancellor for student affairs at Rutgers-New Brunswick. "Being together as a community is one of the best parts of college life and we are working hard to make sure our students have a great experience this fall.''

Before you start shopping one word of advice: check with your roommate to decide who will bring shared items like a rug or television.

Move-in tips are also available online from Rutgers-Newark, Rutgers-Camden and Rutgers-New Brunswick's FAQ page

 

What to Bring: 

  • Cell Phone and Charger 
  • First-Aid Kit 
  • Prescription Medications 
  • Essential Documents 
  • Face Coverings/Masks
  • Sheets and Pillows 
  • Comforter and Blanket 
  • Alarm Clock 
  • Swimsuit 
  • Athletic Clothes 
  • Laundry Bag 
  • Under-the-Bed Storage 
  • Ironing Board and Iron 
  • Shoe Rack 
  • Umbrella and Raincoat 
  • Winter Clothes 
  • Winter Boots, Hats, and Gloves 
  • Sunglasses 
  • Vacuum 
  • Cleaning Supplies 
  • Towels and Washcloth 
  • Bathrobe 
  • Shower Shoes 
  • Hygiene Products 
  • Shower Caddy 
  • Hair Dryer 
  • Comb and Brush 
  • Television and Coaxial Cable 
  • Laptop and Charger 
  • Office Supplies 
  • Calculator 
  • Floor or Bedside Lamp 
  • Surge Protector 
  • Fan 
  • Posters and Decorations 
  • Snacks 
Roommates
Here is an important tip before investing money and time in shopping and packing: roommates should discuss dividing the responsibility for bringing certain items, such as televisions, rugs and audio equipment before arriving for the start of the semester.
Nick Romanenko/Rutgers University

Some additional items are needed if you are moving into on-campus apartments: 

  • Plates and bowls 
  • Cups and Utensils  
  • Pots and Pans  
  • Toilet Paper 
  • Bath Mat
  • Paper Towels  
  • Tissues  
  • Hand Soap  
  • Coffee Maker  
  • Tea Kettle  
  • Groceries 
Move In Day
Don't forget the basics including the clothes you will need until the first trip home.
Nick Romanenko

What Not to Bring: 

  • Pets  
  • Candles or Incense  
  • Refrigerator  
  • Toaster  
  • Hot Plate   
  • Air Conditioner  
  • Weapons of any kind 
  • Fireworks 
  • Grill and Charcoal  
  • Lighter Fluid  
  • Halogen or Oil Lamps 
  • Heaters 
  • Hoverboards  
  • Drones