As my firstborn prepares to trade the comforts of home for close quarters, shared bathrooms, and his first taste of independence, I’m doing a whole lot of last-minute shopping and Amazon ordering. Whether you have a college student moving into a dorm for the first time or they’re planning what to bring to an apartment, having the right stuff (both practically and aesthetically) can make all the difference. And in the age of online shopping, it’s never too late to shop for things they may have forgotten. Here are some of my favorite finds that are equal parts cozy, comfy, and practical.
A Cushy Mattress Topper
College mattresses are not known for comfort and so a mattress topper is a must. This is a splurge-worthy one that comes in three levels of thickness. Each topper has cooling technology, copper-infused foam comfort layers, and varying levels of support. They are CertiPUR-US and GREENGUARD Gold certified, which essentially means they’re made without harmful chemicals. CopperFlex Mattress Topper by Brooklyn Bedding, $199-$299 depending on the model.
Soft, Cool Sheets
These wrinkle-free sheets have a brushed finish that makes them feel extra cozy. They’re made with breathable, lightweight poly-fiber fabric that keeps hot sleepers cool and cold sleepers cozy. They are also hypoallergenic and anti-microbial, making them ideal for students with allergies, sensitive skin, and eczema. They come in 30+ colors, too, and the fitted sheet has a deep pocket to make it easier to make the bed. The Original PeachSkin Sheets, $89 (use code LOYAL for an extra 25 percent off).
A Luxe Throw
A soft throw blanket can make all the difference when studying, relaxing or watching a movie. This one is made from eco-friendly materials and is lightweight yet warm. Easy to fold, drape, or layer, it will go a long way toward making their space super cozy. Luxe Sculpted Texture Faux Fur Throw Blanket by Evergrace, $65.99
A Comfy Comforter
This comforter’s soft, 400-thread-count Egyptian cotton feels smooth to the touch, and the blanket’s fluffy 800 or 650-fill-power keeps you cozy while also remaining breathable. It’s thick, not heavy; cozy, not hot, so it’s ideal for all-season use on their bed, regardless of whether the A/C or heat is on. ComfyDown Comforter in Twin Size, $154.99
An Air Purifier
Small but mighty, this tabletop purifier uses a HEPA filter and UV-C light to help filter out allergens, dust, and germs that will inevitably creep into their dorm. If your teen has asthma or allergies, this is especially a must. PureZone™ DUO Tabletop Air Purifier, $84.99
A Hardworking Backpack
A good backpack is non-negotiable, and JanSport’s Landings Pack has a sleek design, a laptop sleeve, and multiple compartments. It also has cushiony-ergonomic shoulder straps, and an extra-soft back panel and two slots for water bottles. There’s a luggage attachment and padded top grab handle in case it gets heavy to carry or they want to roll it at the airport. Landings Pack by Jansport, $110
For Hanging With Ease
This variety pack comes with 6 small picture hanging strips, 4 large picture hanging strips, 3 medium utility hooks, 2 large utility hooks, 3 small utility hooks, and 6 small wire hooks for damage-free hanging. Command is a go-to because it’s easy to remove cleanly and won’t leave holes or marks on their walls. Command Variety Pack, $11.97
A Riser for Smarter Screen Ergonomics
This riser has 3 adjustable height levels, 2 1/4″, 3 3/4″, and 5 1/4″, so you can set their laptop or monitor at eye-level. This also has a retractable 5″ x 10″ glass dry-erase board so they can write down notes and tuck them away to keep their physical desktop clutter to a minimum (again, a mom can dream). The riser comes with an accessory tray, a dry-erase marker, and the surface measures 10 1/4″ x 14″. Glass Monitor Riser, $79.86
A Multi-Purpose Desk Lamp
This lamp has more than 1K Amazon reviews and after seeing it recommended in multiple online stories, I ordered it for my son. He likes the sleek design, solid black color and its utility. It has 2 pen holders and multiple charging ports, 3 lighting modes, 3 brightness Levels, a 60-minute timer, plus a night light. Desk Lamp by COZOO, $29.99
A Handy Easel for Notes + Reminders
They can jot down and easily erase daily to-dos on this 9″ x 11″ glass easel. It lies flat or can be propped upright and is made with premium glass that feels modern and elevated, minus the elevated price. Quartet Glass Whiteboard Desktop Easel, $23.59
For a full list of what to pack, click here.
Read More:
The Top 10 Colleges & Universities in NJ For 2025, According to New Report
This NJ University Ranks Among the World’s Best, Says U.S. News
A School in New Jersey Has Been Named One of the Most Innovative in The World
Popular Now:
Mini Vacations in New Jersey: 5 Short But Sweet Getaway Ideas
The Other Jersey Shore: How to Plan a Perfect Summer Day at an NJ Lake
NJ Public Schools Just Ranked 3rd Best in the Country, According to New Ranking
These 2 NJ Downtowns Were Just Named Among the Most Walkable in the U.S.
