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Going to college is expensive enough, now moving into the dorm, is a whole other issue. However, some alternatives will not break the bank, fulfill your needs, and have your room looking NICEEE. Hopefully, this guide will give you some ideas and inspiration on what to get to make the most out of your budget. Dorm Essentials on a BudgetDorm life is about making the most of a small space, and let us face it, a tight budget. But do not worry, you can still create a cozy and functional dorm room without breaking the bank. Here are some essential items to get you started:
1. Bedding
Depending on where your school of choice is located investing in quality bedding can make a difference in your sleep and overall comfort. Most dorms will only supply you with a bed frame so look for affordable yet cozy options like microfiber sheets and down alternative comforters. Do not forget about pillows and a mattress pad for extra comfort.
Comforters are a good way to keep your room warm and look good. No need to buy luxurious expensive ones. These comforters look luxurious but won’t break the bank. Amazon, Target, and Walmart always have specials so shop around. The best money saving are the sets that come with the comforter, flat top sheet, fitted sheet, decorative pillowcase, and regular pillowcase. Here are some I found on Amazon that are top quality, budget-friendly, and have some of the best reviews:
For extra comfort and if your budget allows I suggest investing in a mattress pad for extra cushion. You never know in what condition the mattress your dorm will have.
2. Storage
Dorm rooms are usually shared spaces, which means that you must make the most out of the tiny space you have. You will be lucky if you even have a closet. To maximize storage, consider under-bed storage containers or stackable drawers for clothes and other essentials. Plastic drawers are long-lasting, lightweight, and economical. Some even have wheels for ease of movement. You can find these often at a local thrift store for cheap or have them delivered to your dorm within a day or two using Amazon.
Under-bed storage containers are rarer in thrift stores but not impossible to find. They are not as durable as plastic containers, since they are often made of lightweight plastic or cloth material. Since they are usually dragged in and out on a daily, if not hourly basis, they tend to wear from the bottom unless they are used occasionally for nonessential. Door shoe hangers are also a good option if you have a closet door or if your roommate agrees to let you have the door for storage. So many things can be stored besides shoes
- Iris USA Drawer With Wheels
- HOMZ
- Iris 2 – 3 Drawer Set
3. Desk Essentials
Desks are usually provided so no worries about cost there. Your desk is your command center, so make sure it’s functional and stylish.
Lamps are necessary since you will be doing a lot of late-night study sessions. There are lamps in all shapes and sizes, but you want one that is cheap and multifunctional. I would suggest a lamp that is also a phone charger and a pencil holder or at least one of the two. Not only will it help save space, but it will also eliminate the need to buy more charging cables and ports.
Power strips and extensions are cheap and keep a desk tidy and functioning efficiently. They are also good at preventing appliances and electronics from shortening out from outages. Furthermore, often, you will not have an outlet close to your desk. So having a power strip to give you some extension and extra outlets is essential.
I also recommend having a desk fan or a compact fan that can be clipped onto anything. This also depends on location, but most dorms do not have air conditioning. Also, look for small fans that are powerful and quiet. Many fans do not have a lot of power and make a lot of noise. You would want to avoid either for convenience. Here are some that are small, convenient, and won’t break the bank.
4. Decorating
Now that you have your basics down, we cannot forget about decorating. It is not essential, but it keeps you from feeling homesick and makes the dorm room feel like home. Remember, however, there is no need to go overboard as this is temporary housing and you do not have a lot of room as it is. For this check out second-hand stores, they often have beautiful art pieces and frames for cheap.
Conclusion
The basics are what you need to make your stay comfortable and functional. There is no need to buy fancy furniture or expensive decorations for a place that will be a seasonal and temporary home. So, if you want to succeed focus on functionality rather than luxury. Keep in mind that there are thrift stores that sometimes carry brand-new items for less. Check out yard and garage sales too. You never know what you will find. Just keep an open mind.
