What to Pack for Boarding School: A Guide from a Former Boarding Student

If you or your child are preparing for boarding school, this guide will help you pack smart, ensuring a smooth transition and a comfortable start to dorm life.

1. The Absolute Essentials (Don’t Forget These!)

Before thinking about clothes or decorations, make sure you have these must-have documents and essentials—without them, you can’t even check in properly!

Passport or ID – If you’re an international student, double-check visa requirements.
Medical records & health insurance card – Schools often need vaccination records.
‍Debit/credit card & some cash – Many schools have cashless systems, but it’s good to have emergency cash.
School admission papers, offer letter & class schedule – You’ll need these for orientation, sometimes, you would be asked for these during check in counters at airports!  
‍A small lockbox for valuables – Boarding schools are safe, but having a place for important documents and cash is smart.

Pro Tip: Keep all these documents in a folder or pouch in your travel bag. Do not keep it in your check in luggage! You don’t want to be the student scrambling to find your ID!

2. Clothes: Less is More!

One of my biggest mistakes was overpacking clothes. Space in dorm rooms is very limited, and laundry is usually done weekly. Pack smart, not excessive.

Everyday Wear (Based on School Dress Code)

School uniforms – Usually you can purchase uniforms when you arrive at campus, but if you could get them in advance, bring enough to last between laundry days. Attach name tags to avoid losing it during laundry!
Casual clothes – Hoodies, jeans, sweatpants, caps, comfortable shirts and outside slippers for weekends.
Workout gear – If your school has mandatory sports, you’ll need their required athletic clothes and sneakers. Again, try the school shop there, they will make sure you get THE “outfit of the day”.
Formal outfit – Some schools require a dark blazer, knee or full length dress, or suit for special occasions. Usually black tie is your ultimate guide for formal wear. In classroom settings, some schools will also require students to wear derby shoes or loafers for girls. Make sure you get a soft pair. 

Seasonal Clothing

Winter coat, puffer vest, gloves, and boots (if your school is in a cold area).
Light jackets and raincoats – A must for unpredictable weather.
Flip-flops – For shared showers (a lifesaver!).

What I Regret Packing Too Much Of:
oo many fancy outfits (you’ll rarely need them).
Excessive shoes – I ended up rotating between 3-4 pairs.

3. Dorm Room Must-Haves

Dorms can feel a little plain at first, but with the right items, you can make your space cozy and functional.

Bedding (Twin XL sheets, comforter, and pillows) – Most dorm beds are Twin XL, so check before buying.
Mattress topper – This is a true essential. Dorm beds are often uncomfortable, so a foam topper makes a big difference. Bring the one you used at home to feel that same touch.
Small desk lamp – Perfect for late-night studying when your roommate is sleeping.
Extension cord & power strip – Outlets are always limited!
Photos & small decorations – Makes your space feel like home.
A small fan – Dorm rooms can get stuffy, and this helped a lot. 
Light, foldable drawers – They give you the extra room you need for organizing your closet or study area. 

Pro Tip: Bring Command hooks and strips—they help hang things without damaging walls (most schools don’t allow nails).

4. Toiletries & Personal Care

Shared bathrooms take some getting used to, but bringing the right supplies makes life easier.

Shower caddy – Essential for carrying toiletries to and from the bathroom.
Shampoo, conditioner, body wash – Pack travel sizes to start.
Toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss – Obvious, but easy to forget.
Deodorant & skincare products – Boarding life is active, so hygiene is key!
Feminine products (if needed) – Stock up so you don’t have to rush to a store.
Laundry bag & detergent pods – Doing your own laundry is a boarding school reality.

Pro Tip: Pack a quick-dry towel—regular ones take forever to dry in dorm rooms.

5. School & Study Supplies

While some supplies are provided, I recommend bringing:

Laptop & charger – Some schools require specific devices, so check before buying.
‍Notebooks, pens, and highlighters – Start with a few and buy more as needed.
Planner or calendar – Helps with managing assignments and extracurriculars.
Noise-canceling headphones – A must-have for focusing in shared spaces.
USB drive or external hard drive – Backing up your work is always a good idea.

6. Food & Snacks (Because Cafeteria Food Gets Old!)

Meal plans are great, but you’ll want some extra snacks in your dorm for late-night study sessions.

Instant noodles or microwave meals – Lifesavers during long study nights.
Granola bars, nuts, or protein snacks – Easy, healthy options.
Reusable water bottle – Staying hydrated is key.
Small utensils & microwave-safe bowl – Useful if your dorm has a shared microwave.

What I Learned: Avoid bringing too many snacks—they take up space, and most schools have snack bars or grocery trips.

7. First Aid & Emergency Kit

Boarding schools usually have a health center or sick bay, but having a basic first aid kit is useful, especially during late night fevers or emergencies.

Pain relievers (Tylenol, ibuprofen, etc.)
Cold/flu medicine (you will get sick at some point!)
Band-Aids & antiseptic wipes
Thermometer – Super helpful when you don’t feel well.

Pro Tip: Some school takes medicine use very seriously, check with you dorm staff beforehand to make sure you are not bringing prohibited medicines.

8. Miscellaneous Items You’ll Be Glad You Have

Umbrella – You’ll thank yourself on rainy days.
Backpack – Choose something light but sturdy for carrying books around.
Sleep mask & earplugs – A must if your roommate has different sleep habits.
Sports equipment – If you’re on a team, don’t forget the gear.
Journal or personal diary – Writing down your experiences is a great way to adjust.

Final Thoughts: Pack Smart & Adjust As You Go

Packing for boarding school isn’t just about bringing things—it’s about bringing the right things. Overpacking makes moving in stressful, and forgetting essentials can be frustrating. My best advice?

✅ Start with the basics, and buy additional items later.
✅ Talk to your roommate before move-in—maybe you can split some dorm supplies.
✅ Keep it simple—boarding school is about experiences, not just stuff.

No matter how much you pack, the most important thing is an open mind and a willingness to adapt. Boarding school is a life-changing experience, and being prepared makes it even better.