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Working through a dorm room shopping checklist can feel like the mother lode of all chores. Whether you are a student or a parent, it can be tempting to buy every single item on the list you have been given by the university, but in actuality, that is one of the most common dorm room shopping mistakes. Actually, it is smart to first ask yourself questions about what you really need.

If you haven’t already read Part 1, do so now—it is the first set of recommended questions to go over while you are shopping for first year dorm room, and covers matters pertaining to logistics, the common area, the kitchen and the laundry. If you are all caught up, read on for more questions!

Bathroom

• Where is the bathroom located? Is it adjoined to the room, or is it down the hall? How far down the hall is it? Is it in the same structure and on the same floor? Knowing this will help you choose a caddy or bag for carrying your bathroom supplies.
• How many other people use the bathroom in question? Does an entire building full of freshmen use it? Just a few people on the same small floor? Roommates who live in a shared suite? The answer to these questions impacts what can be stored in the bathroom (if anything).
• Are there bathroom supplies which you already have and do not need to buy, like a towel which belongs to you specifically, and flip-flops which you can wear while you are in the shower?

Bedroom

• How large is the dorm room? Can you check the university’s website or materials for the dimensions?
• What are the dimensions of the dorm room closet?
• Can the beds be elevated? Are they separate, or are they bunk beds?
• What other furnishings are included with the room (desk, chairs, bookcase, dresser, etc.)?
• What kind of lighting is installed in the room?
• How many outlets are there, and where are they located?
• What kind of temperature control can you expect in the room? Is it well heated and cooled?
• Would a lockbox be useful?
• Where are the windows and how large are they? How much wall space does this leave?
• Are blinds or curtains needed to cover the windows?
• What types of extension cords are permitted under the electrical code?
• Will the student be relying entirely on the bedroom storage space, or is there also some common area storage available?

People

• How many roommates/suitemates will there be?
• Are any roommates willing to split costs or share items (for a mini-fridge, etc.)?

While you are shopping and trying to think of dorm room ideas for small rooms, you may come up with other useful questions on your own. The most important thing is just not to go out and buy every “dorm room storage essential” without thinking. Instead, focus on getting the minimum supplies that you will need to get by!