
As a student at NC State, you'll want to make sure you have the right gear to stay organized and comfortable on campus. Start by packing the essentials, including a laptop and charger, as well as a power strip to keep all your devices charged.
Don't forget to bring a comfortable backpack or bag to carry your belongings, and consider investing in a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day. You'll also want to pack a few snacks, such as granola bars or nuts, to keep your energy up between meals.
In addition to these basics, you may also want to bring a small first aid kit, including pain relievers, band-aids, and antacids, to help you tackle any minor medical issues that may arise. Consider packing a small umbrella or raincoat, as NC State's weather can be unpredictable.
A good rule of thumb is to pack light and prioritize the items you really need. Remember, you can always purchase anything you forget or need later on campus.
Check this out: State Weigh Station Laws
Packing Essentials

When packing for NC State, it's essential to bring the right items to ensure a smooth move-in. Start with the basics, like a mattress pad and bedspread, which are recommended by NC State.
You'll also need to pack linens, towels, and toiletries. Don't forget to bring clothes, shoes, and a power strip with a surge protector. This will help you stay organized and keep your electronics safe.
A desk lamp, clock, and alarm clock are also must-haves for your dorm room. Don't forget to bring a laptop, printer, and mini-vacuum to keep your space clean.
Here's a list of the top essentials to bring:
Remember to pack smart and sustainable, and don't forget to compare notes with your roommate to avoid duplicating items.
Room Essentials
As you start to pack for NC State, it's essential to focus on the room essentials that will make your living space comfortable and functional. A mattress pad is a must-have, and don't forget to bring bedspread, comforter or blanket to keep you cozy.

You'll also need some basic lighting, so be sure to pack a desk lamp. Non-halogen desk lamps are a good option, but any desk lamp will do. Don't forget to bring towels and linens that fit an extra long twin bed (36" x 80").
Here are some other room essentials to consider:
- Desk lamp
- Non-halogen desk lamp
- Towels
- Linens to fit an extra long twin bed (36" x 80")
A fan can also be a lifesaver, especially during those hot summer months. Don't forget to bring a power strip or surge protector to keep all your electronics charged and safe.
Bathroom & Shower Essentials
As you're getting ready to move into your new space, it's essential to stock up on bathroom and shower essentials. Toiletries like toothbrush and toothpaste are a must-have.
You'll also want to bring some personal care items, such as body wash and shampoo. Don't forget to pack lotion for moisturizing your skin.
A bathroom rug is a great addition to any bathroom, as it provides traction and can help prevent slips and falls. Shower shoes are another essential item to include in your packing list.

Towels and hand towels are also a must-have, as you'll need them to dry off after showers. A shower cap is a thoughtful item to bring along, especially if you have long hair.
Here's a list of some of the most important bathroom and shower essentials to bring along:
- Toilet paper
- Body wash
- Shampoo
- Lotion
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Bathroom rug
- Shower shoes
- Shower cap
- Towels
- Hand towels
Room Decorations
A well-designed room can greatly impact your mood and productivity.
Adding a statement piece of furniture, like a vintage armchair, can instantly elevate the style of a room. You can find one at a thrift store or online.
Rugs can add warmth and texture to a space, making it feel cozier. A 9x12 foot rug is a good size for most living rooms.
Plants can purify the air and bring in a touch of nature. A low-maintenance option like a snake plant is perfect for busy people.
Using string lights or fairy lights can create a warm and inviting ambiance. They're also easy to set up and can be taken down when not in use.
A statement wall can add visual interest to a room, but be sure to balance it with neutral colors on the other walls. A bold paint color can make a big impact.
School Supplies

As you're preparing for NC State move-in day, don't forget to pack your essential school supplies. Textbooks are a must-have, so make sure to bring them along.
You'll also need an iClicker, but only if it's required for your classes, so double-check with your professors. A calculator is another important item, and you should verify which type you need.
A laptop is a must-have for any college student, so don't even think about leaving it behind. A backpack will come in handy for carrying all your supplies.
You'll also need basic writing supplies like pen and pencils, as well as binders, papers, and a tote bag. A calendar is a great way to stay organized, and a folders organizer will help keep your notes tidy.
Sticky notes and a pencil case are also useful for jotting down quick reminders. A pencil sharpener and erasers will keep your writing utensils in top shape. Highlighters will help you color-code your notes, and a lunchbox will come in handy for packing snacks.
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A ruler and scissors are basic tools that every student should have. An external hard drive or USB or SD Card will help you back up your important files. A wireless mouse will make typing on your laptop a breeze.
Don't forget to pack chargers for your phone, tablet, and laptop. Staplers and white out will come in handy for any last-minute revisions.
Move-In Checklist
As you prepare to move into your new NC State dorm, it's essential to have a solid understanding of what to bring. Start by packing the basics, including a mattress pad, bedspread, comforter or blanket, and desk lamp.
You'll also need to bring towels, pillows and pillowcases, and linens to fit an extra long twin bed (36" x 80"). Don't forget to pack clothes, shoes, toiletries, and a stereo, television, clock, alarm clock, and fan.
Here's a list of additional items to consider bringing:
- Mattress pad
- Bedspread, comforter or blanket
- Desk lamp
- Towels
- Pillows and pillowcases
- Linens to fit an extra long twin bed (36" x 80")
- Clothes
- Shoes
- Toiletries
- Stereo
- Television
- Clock
- Alarm clock
- Fan
- Computer
- Printer
- Power strip/surge protector
- Mini-vacuum
- Sleeping bag if you want
- Wall mirror
- Trash bags
Packing & Move-In Checklist

Now that you've got your acceptance letter, it's time to start packing for campus moving day.
You'll want to bring a mattress pad to ensure a comfortable night's sleep. The recommended size is not specified, but it's a good idea to check with your college or school for specific requirements.
Desk lamps are a must-have for studying and relaxation. Look for a non-halogen option to ensure safety.
Towels, pillows, and pillowcases are essentials for keeping your dorm room clean and cozy. Don't forget to bring extra linens to fit an extra long twin bed, which measures 36" x 80".
Clothes, shoes, and toiletries are all must-haves for everyday life. Don't forget to pack a power strip or surge protector to keep your electronics charged.
Here's a list of dorm room basics to pack:
- Mattress pad
- Bedspread, comforter, or blanket
- Desk lamp
- Towels
- Pillows and pillowcases
- Linens to fit an extra long twin bed (36" x 80")
- Clothes
- Shoes
- Toiletries
- Power strip/surge protector
You may also want to consider bringing a stereo, television, clock, alarm clock, fan, computer, printer, mini-vacuum, sleeping bag, wall mirror, and trash bags to make your dorm room feel like home.
Move-In Day Tasks

Move-in day is finally here, and it's time to get down to business. Check the electrical outlets and switches to ensure they're working properly.
Make a list of all the furniture and appliances that need to be assembled, and get to work on it as soon as possible. This will save you a lot of time and stress in the long run.
Take photos of the electrical panel and circuit breakers before you start using any appliances. This will help you identify any issues that may arise later.
Check the water shut-off valves and make sure they're functioning correctly. This is especially important if you have a water heater or other appliances that use water.
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with the location of the main water shut-off valve and the circuit breaker panel. This will come in handy in case of an emergency.
Label all the cords and cables for your electronics and appliances, so you can easily identify what goes where. This will save you a lot of time and frustration in the long run.
Take a final walk-through of the house to ensure everything is in working order and you're not missing anything important.
Additional reading: Packing List for Moving Out for the First Time
Prohibited Items

As you're packing for NC State, it's essential to know what items are prohibited on campus. Don't bring any drugs or alcohol.
You'll also want to leave your pets at home, unless you have a fish in a 10-gallon tank per person. Dart boards and water beds are also off-limits.
Other items to avoid bringing include weapons, extension cords, air conditioners, lava lamps, ceiling fans and lights, toasters, burners or hot plates, heaters, and fireworks. And please don't even think about bringing explosives or unsafe chemicals.
Here's a quick rundown of some common prohibited items:
- Drugs and alcohol
- Pets (other than fish in a 10-gallon tank)
- Dart boards
- Water beds
- Weapons
- Extension cords
- Air conditioners
- Lava Lamps
- Ceiling fans and lights
- Toasters, burners or hot plates
- Heaters
- Fireworks
- Explosives or unsafe chemicals
Sustainable Move-In
As you're preparing for your move-in to NC State, it's great that you're thinking about sustainability. One way to make a positive impact is to pack smart, and here are some tips to help you do just that.
Talk to your roommate about what items you both want in your shared space to avoid duplicating essentials like coffee makers, brooms, or televisions.

You can bring your current linens, blankets, pillows, towels, and washcloths from home to reduce waste and save money.
Bring your own reusable items like bottles, cups, cutlery, and food containers to minimize single-use plastics.
Choosing bars over bottles for hand soap, shampoo, and conditioner is a great way to reduce plastic waste and save money in the long run.
A bamboo compostable toothbrush is a great option, and NC State even composts them!
Reducing paper use by going digital with your calendar and note-taking apps is a simple way to make a difference.
If you have items that need batteries, opt for rechargeables to save money and reduce waste.
An energy-efficient bulb in a used or thrifted lamp is a great way to light up your space while being kind to the environment.
Don't forget to pack your chargers and power strip with a surge protector, and look for "smart" strips that save energy.
Plants, pictures, and posters can make your space feel like home, and you can even bring them from home to reduce waste.
Here are some additional resources to help you pack sustainably:
- University Housing Suggested Packing List
- Fall Move-In Guide
- PackSmart Sustainable Packing List
Sources
- https://campusarrival.com/schools/north-carolina-state-university/
- https://housing.dasa.ncsu.edu/assignments/move-in-information/
- https://unisup.co/blogs/college/nc-state-packing-list-what-to-bring-on-move-in-day
- https://nc4h.ces.ncsu.edu/camps-centers/what-should-i-bring-to-camp/
- https://sustainability.ncsu.edu/blog/2022/07/27/student-packing-list-for-a-sustainable-move-in/
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