Your Dorm Packing Guide

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What to Bring When Moving into a Dorm

The University of Arizona has 23 on-campus dorms that come in all shapes and sizes. Each one gets you closer to the people and resources that will help you succeed as a college student.

Finding your “home away from home” on campus is one of the best parts of being a Wildcat. You’ll make new friends, tons of memories, and enjoy all the action our beautiful campus has to offer.

To help you get settled, we’ve compiled a list of things to bring (and not to bring) ahead of move-in day. 

What’s included in a dorm?

Your dorm will have basic furniture, including:

• Twin XL size bed and mattress (some dorms offer full-size beds)
• Desk with chair
• Closet or wardrobe
• Dresser
• Trash can and recycle bin

The cost of your dorm also covers utilities like electricity, heating and cooling, and Wi-Fi.

What should I pack?

Bring things that you’ll use on a daily basis and to make your space feel like home.

• Personal items like clothing, shoes, and toiletries
• Pillows and bedding (bonus points if it’s Wildcat gear!)
• TV
• Computer and printer
• Alarm clock
• Desk lamp and/or floor lamp
• Organizers
• Clothing hangers
• Mirror
• Reusable dishes, silverware, and water bottle
• Pictures, posters, and other wall art

Get a full “What to Bring” checklist from Housing & Residential Life.

Should I bring a fridge and microwave?

You’re allowed to bring one minifridge and microwave (get the specifications here). However, you can also rent a Microfridge – a refrigerator and microwave combo unit – for the academic year.

What other amenities are available?

There are tons of amenities and resources you’ll enjoy in our dorms. You’ll have access to laundry facilities (fee required), community kitchens, recreation rooms, study spaces, mail service, water-filling stations, ice machines, and more. Vacuums, pots and pans, rec equipment, and movies are available to borrow for free from the front desk. 

Pro tip: Make a plan with your roommate

If you’re assigned a roommate, consider talking with them to decide who’s bringing what. Got a TV you can share? Great, maybe they can bring the microwave.

Is there anything I shouldn’t pack with me?

Remember, safety is our top priority. That means you shouldn’t pack potentially dangerous items like candles, toasters, open-plate cooking equipment, halogen lamps, and several other things listed on the move-in checklists.

Learn more about our dorms and the housing application process by visiting the Housing & Residential Life website. Planning to live off campus? We can help with that, too.

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