Top 11 things every Sun Devil needs for their residence hall

The fall 2021 semester is approaching fast, and that can only mean one thing, it’s time to start packing for move-in day. 

That’s right Sun Devils, ASU will be fully back to in-person classes this semester. And residence halls will be filled to full capacity again, too. It’s important for first-year students and students moving back into the residential communities to know what to bring.

Here is a list of the top items you should make sure you have ready to go when it’s your time to move in. We’re excited to see you, Sun Devils!

1. Items to beat the heat

Arizona is hot in August! Beat the heat and stay hydrated by bringing these items to school. 

Having a Brita or water filter of some type can be a great way to ensure that you have access to clean water at all times. Sunscreen, hats and sunglasses can also help you stay cool on those long, hot days when you’ll be walking to Sun Devil Welcome, CultureFest, the first football game and more. 

2. Room decor

Personalize your room by hanging up some decor! Bring a plant, plug in a groovy lava lamp or make some DIY crafts! However you choose to show off your style just remember that ASU University Housing doesn’t allow you to put holes in the wall. Command hooks are a great way to get around this! 

3. COVID-19 Community of Care items

Although vaccines are now available to all Sun Devils and ASU is returning to in-person instruction, practicing community health is still important. Having hand sanitizer is always a good idea, and keeping track of how you’re feeling with a thermometer will let you know when you’re under the weather. Keeping masks on hand in case you’re traveling or in a crowded area will also come in handy. 

4. Food prep tools

Don’t forget to bring a mini fridge and microwave. Residence halls allow students to bring one mini fridge and microwave to share with their roommates. If you don’t feel like buying your own you can also rent them from University Housing. Other food items such as snacks, eating utensils and fun cooking gadgets may also be useful to bring. Just remember toasters are not allowed! 

5. Blankets and pillows 

A comfortable camper is a happy camper. Although the dorm life isn’t quite like camping, a comfortable set of blankets and pillows can make a big difference. Some students even recommend bringing a mattress pad for extra comfort. Just remember that the beds in the residence halls are not your average sized twin beds. You will need to buy Twin XL sized sheets to avoid slipping, sliding and constant readjusting of your sheets.

6. Cleaning supplies

Seriously, this one is important. Especially because there are no community bathrooms at ASU. You will have to clean your own room and bathroom. Specific cleaning items that are essential include glass cleaner, all-surface cleaner, air fresheners, a scrubbing sponge and paper towels. Vacuums are pretty helpful as well considering most dorm floors are carpeted. 

7. Laundry essentials

Luckily for Sun Devils, washing and drying is free in University Housing. This means you don’t have to worry about having a steady supply of coins for machines. Yay! 

It is smart to bring laundry detergent and dryer sheets. Some students prefer to bring mini drying racks to set up in their rooms as well. Just don’t forget to bring a laundry basket; most roommates don’t enjoy seeing dirty clothes on the floor. 

8. Electronics

Think TVs, laptops, video game consoles, speakers, cell phones and more. Bring whatever electronic devices you think you might need to have a successful and entertaining school year. 

9. Mode of transportation

Some ASU campuses are larger than others. Bringing a bike, skateboard, scooter or other form of transportation could be convenient for getting around campus. Feel free to get innovative; some students have even been seen riding unicycles or motorized skateboards. Just be sure to follow the walk-only zone signs displayed in some areas of campus.

10. Some kind of calendar

Seriously, calendars are super helpful! Print out a calendar of ASU’s football schedule, a calendar of theater performances, ASU welcome events or anything you might be interested in. Keeping a calendar of upcoming events can give you something to look forward to every week and keep your schedule organized. So plan away! Agendas are nice to have for academic scheduling, too. 

11. Spirit wear

Whether you're planning to attend sporting events, theater performances or just want to rep ASU, spirit wear is a must for all Sun Devils. Grab your gold and maroon or buy some cool merch from the ASU campus bookstores. School spirit at ASU is huge. In fact, it’s a tradition for students to wear maroon on Mondays and gold on Fridays. 

Bonus tip: One must-have item all students will use eventually is a clear bag. ASU events only allow people to carry their belongings in clear bags.

Good luck packing and see you soon, Sun Devils!