Ram Essentials

10 items Rams say they couldn't live without in the residence halls story by Allison Sylte updated Aug. 10, 2023
Move In Week Tag

There’s plenty of advice about what to bring to the dorms that ranges from fairly obvious — clothes — to a little more obscure — one former student said they couldn’t live without their Guy Fieri banner.

With more than 8,000 students who will be living in the residence halls and University apartments, we took to Instagram to ask people who have done it before what they wish they had remembered to bring for this huge life experience.

We received more than 100 responses from current and former Rams. Here’s a look at 10 of the items they said they were glad to have.


A fan

Portable fan  

Nineteen people said a portable fan was the residence hall item they could not live without. Anyone who has experienced late summer in Colorado knows that it’s no joke, so it makes sense why this was the one item that makes life a little bit easier.

Extension cord/outlet extender

Outlet extender

From laptops to video game consoles to mood lighting for studying, students use a lot of electronics, and that means outlets could be at a premium. Ten people wanted their fellow Rams to make sure they were prepared with extension cords and outlet extenders.

Speaking of electronics, another two people recommended picking up extra-long charging cables.

Long charging cables

Command hooks  

Command hooks

These removable wall hooks run for around $10 for a pack of 16, and multiple former residence hall dwellers called them priceless for organizing their clothes and other supplies.

Electric kettle/coffee pot

Coffee pot

While one former Ram wrote she “ended up buying it every day anyway,” having the power to make your own coffee or tea in the comfort of your own home is priceless.

In this vein, another Ram recommended picking up a Brita filter to ensure fresh water at all times.

Lanyard  

CSU lanyards

“It may sound dorky, but man is it convenient to get into the dorms,” one Ram told us.

Unique decorations

CSU student decorations

We’ve already mentioned the Guy Fieri banner that one Ram mentioned, but others said their metal posters, Seattle Seahawks Russell Wilson bobblehead and more made their space a little more like home.

Just make sure your roommate is cool with it.

Weighted blanket

Weighted blanket

Speaking of making your home a little more comfortable, three Rams said they were all about their weighted blankets.

Floor-length mirror  

Because who wouldn’t want to make sure they look good?

Fabric releaser spray  

Ties

An easy way to make sure you aren’t the one with wrinkled clothes.

Reusable duffel bag  

Duffel bag

“Reusable duffel bags! I was able to pack all my clothes and store them away easily,” one person wrote on Instagram.


Share your thoughts

Do you have other advice for incoming students? Weigh in on Facebook.