College Shopping Checklist: What to Bring to Campus

As the summer winds down, the anticipation of a new school year starts to build. For college students, this means gearing up for a semester filled with new classes, experiences, and challenges. If you’re making your way back to campus soon, use the checklist below to ensure you have everything you need to succeed both in, and out of, the classroom!  

What to bring to campus this school year 

1. Academic essentials 

Bringing your school supplies to campus is crucial because it helps you stay organized and prepared for your classes from day one. Plus, having everything you need on hand saves you from last-minute scrambles and lets you focus on diving into your coursework and new college life. These items may include:  

• Textbooks and course materials. Ensure you have all required textbooks and any additional course materials. Check your syllabus early and explore options for purchasing or renting books. Digital versions can also save space and money. 
• Laptop and chargers. A reliable laptop is crucial for assignments, research, and virtual classes. Don’t forget chargers and any necessary accessories like an external mouse or keyboard. 
• Notebooks, binders, and stationery. While digital notes are convenient, sometimes pen and paper are necessary. Stock up on notebooks, binders, pens, pencils, highlighters, and sticky notes. 
• Planner or calendar. Stay organized by using a planner or digital calendar to keep track of assignment due dates, exams, and social events. 

2. Student bank accounts  

Having a checking account before coming to campus is essential because it provides a convenient way to manage your daily expenses, such as textbooks, meals, and transportation. Look for a free checking account with no minimum balance and no monthly fees, easy access to ATMs, and online banking capabilities.  

A savings account is equally important as it helps you build an emergency fund and save for future expenses, such as study abroad programs or unexpected costs. When choosing a savings account, consider the interest rate, minimum balance requirements, and any fees associated with the account. Higher interest rates will help your savings grow faster.  

Lastly, a credit card can be a valuable tool for building your credit history, which is crucial for future financial endeavors like renting an apartment or buying a car. Look for a student credit card with a low-interest rate, no annual fees, and rewards that align with your spending habits, such as cash back on groceries or gas.  

• Want unlimited cash back? Purchases on a General Electric Credit Union (GECU) Visa Signature® card earn 2x the points.¹ Redeem points for cash back, merchandise, gift cards, and more. Use it on large purchases leading up to the school year, like a new laptop, to work toward our bonus points offer .² 

It's important to use your credit card responsibly by making payments on time and keeping your balance low to avoid high-interest charges. Establishing good credit early on sets the foundation for a strong financial future and can open doors to better credit offers and loan rates after graduation. 

3. A budget 

Building a budget before getting to campus is invaluable because it helps you manage your money effectively and avoid overspending. A budget allows you to track your income and expenses, ensuring that you prioritize essential costs like tuition, housing, and food, while also setting aside funds for savings and discretionary spending.  

By having a clear financial plan, you can make informed decisions about where to cut back if needed and avoid the stress of financial uncertainty. A well-thought-out budget promotes responsible financial habits and gives you control over your finances, allowing you to focus more on your academic and social life during college. 

4. Personal and health essentials 

Ensure you have your student ID, driver's license, passport, and any other important documents for personal identification, as well as your health insurance card handy in case you need medical services. Additionally, a small first aid kit with band-aids, pain relievers, and any personal medications is a must-have for handling minor health issues while on campus. 

5. Room and board 

Check the size of your dorm bed (typically Twin XL) and bring sheets, blankets, pillows, and pillowcases, along with laundry supplies such as a laundry basket, detergent, fabric softener, and a roll of quarters if your laundry facility requires them. If you have access to a kitchen, bring basic utensils, pots, pans, and a few dishes, as well as a mini-fridge and microwave for added convenience. Personalize your space with photos, posters, and other decor, and use storage bins and organizers to keep your room tidy and functional. 

6. Clothing and personal care 

Pack clothes appropriate for the climate, including a good coat, boots, and other weather-specific items. Stock up on toiletries such as shampoo, conditioner, soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, and a shower caddy to carry them to and from the bathroom. Additionally, bring multiple towels and a robe for convenience. 

Preparing for college can be overwhelming, but with this checklist, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle the school year head-on. Double-check each category to ensure you haven’t missed anything, and remember, it's always better to be over-prepared than under-prepared.  

GECU wishes you the best of luck with your new academic journey! If you’ll be attending college in the Tri-State area, consider turning to us for all your banking needs. With benefits like free checking accounts, interest-earning savings accounts, and a wide ATM network, GECU makes managing your finances simple and convenient. Plus, our virtual appointments mean you can get the help you need without leaving campus. Choose GECU and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with reliable, student-friendly banking services.