Overview
This lecture provides a comprehensive packing checklist and practical move-in tips for freshmen at the University of Pennsylvania, covering dorm, bath, tech, clothing, and miscellaneous essentials.
Dorm Room Essentials
- Bring a Twin XL mattress topper for extra comfort on dorm beds.
- Use a Twin XL comforter, sheet set, and mattress protector for proper fit and cleanliness.
- Invest in skinny clothing hangers to maximize limited closet space.
- Consider an area rug for warmth and comfort, especially with linoleum floors.
- Add a full-length mirror for outfit checks; door-mounted options save space.
- Use command hooks for hanging decorations to avoid wall damage.
- Bed risers increase under-bed storage; use them based on room size.
- A headboard prevents pillows from falling; stools offer extra seating and storage.
Bath & Hygiene Supplies
- Use a mesh shower caddy for shared bathrooms; it dries faster and is easy to hang.
- Always wear shower shoes in communal showers to maintain hygiene.
- Pack essential toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, body wash, deodorant, dental care.
- Have towels in various sizes; off-white or dark colors stay cleaner.
- Bring a hair dryer and styling tools if needed, plus personal grooming items.
- Include a laundry backpack or bag for ease of carrying clothes to laundry rooms.
Technology & School Supplies
- Multiple power strips help reach inaccessible outlets.
- Bring headphones or earplugs for noise control.
- Essential tech: phone and laptop chargers, desk lamp or extra lighting.
- Consider string/cafe lights or LED strips for improved room lighting and ambiance.
- Mini fridge (rent or purchase) for food storage; coordinate with roommate.
- Basic school supplies: notebooks, pens, pencils, erasers, backpack or tote, calculator, and highlighters.
Clothing & Footwear
- Pack plenty of underwear, socks, activewear, pajamas, and basic professional attire.
- A long winter coat is essential for Philadelphia winters.
- Bring slippers for dorm floors and a bathing suit for travel or events.
- Consider a pair of "frat shoes" and a "fracket" for night outings.
- Rotate between a few bags; a "going out" bag is useful for events.
Miscellaneous & Move-in Tips
- Trash bags are necessary as you manage your own waste in most dorms.
- Bring ID, passport, umbrella, carry-on luggage, and a phone wallet for convenience.
- Sleep mask and earplugs help with light and noise disturbances.
- Reusable water bottle and possibly a microwave or portable speaker enhance daily life.
- Extra storage bins, if needed, can be bought after arrival.
- Skip unnecessary items: large printers, extra utensils, laundry baskets, plates/bowls (dining plan covers meals).
Move-in Tips
- Ship larger items to Amazon Hub lockers for faster pick-up.
- Clean your room before unpacking with wipes and a Swiffer.
- Locate your room and plan your move-in route in advance.
- Coordinate appliances and moving times with your roommate for efficiency.
- Take advantage of campus support desks for maintenance issues.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Twin XL — Extra-long twin bed size common in college dorms.
- Command hooks — Adhesive hooks for hanging items without damaging walls.
- Fracket — A cheap, warm jacket worn to parties, not minding potential damage or loss.
- Frat shoes — Durable shoes meant for social events where they could get dirty.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Reference the detailed packing list for specific product recommendations.
- Order key items to Amazon Hub before arrival to streamline move-in.
- Coordinate with any future roommates about shared items and move-in schedules.
- Clean your dorm upon arrival before unpacking.