First-Year Student Packing List
Packing for college doesn’t have to be overwhelming—start with the essentials and build from there. Brunswick has convenient access to stores like Target, Walmart, and Walgreens. During orientation, you can also take advantage of Bowdoin’s Freecycle event, where you can find gently used dorm supplies at no cost!
✅ Pack First (Essentials)
- Bedding: Twin XL sheets, pillows, blankets
- Clothing: Everyday wear, hangers, layers for cold weather, semi-formal outfit
- Toiletries: Toothbrush, towels, shower shoes & caddy
- Laundry: Laundry bag or basket, detergent (laundry is free)
- Academics: Notebooks, pens, pencils, highlighters, calculator
- Technology: You will receive a MacBook, iPad Mini, and an Apple Pencil with chargers, so feel free to only bring chargers for all your other devices and headphones
- Health: Personal medications, basic first-aid items (bandages, pain reliever, cold medicine)
- Décor: Photos, posters, string lights
- Other: Thumbtacks, Athletic gear, snacks
💛 Wait & See (May Not Need)
- TV or gaming systems
- Mini-fridge or microwave (coordinate with roommates to avoid bringing double!)
- Extension cords/power strips
- Fan
- Iron or drying rack
- Rug (coordinate with roommates)
- Desk or standing lamps
- Napkins or paper towels
- Vacuum (available in residence halls)
- Extra storage or additional décor
- Bike or skateboard (helpful for getting around, but not essential—check out all your options through Bowdoin’s bike programs)
Many of these items can be purchased after move-in once students know their space and roommates.
🚫 Leave at Home
- Candles: please note that any student found with a candle in residence, even if not lit or wickless, will face disciplinary consequences, beginning with probation (see the Code of Community Standards for more information)
- Pets (including fish)
- Firearms or dangerous weapons
- Space heaters
- 3M Command Strips or any adhesive strips
- Battery-powered bikes, boards, or scooters
- Appliances with exposed heating elements, such as hot plates and toaster ovens
Please review the full Residential Life policies for a complete list of prohibited items.