Dorm tech & power checklist

Short answer: The 9 things to bring: surge protector with long cord, extension cord (rated for the load), laptop + charger, new laptop (if you're buying one for school), phone charger, headphones / earbuds, small desk lamp, HDMI cable / streaming stick (if TVs allowed) and power bank.

Outlets are scarce and far from the bed. Power management matters more than you'd think.

Product links go to Amazon search — as an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. Links never change the checklist.

Surge protector with long cord (+ USB ports) See price on Amazon
Extension cord (rated for the load) See price on Amazon
Laptop + charger See price on Amazon
New laptop (if you're buying one for school) See price on Amazon
Phone charger (a spare for the desk) See price on Amazon
Headphones / earbuds See price on Amazon
Small desk lamp (LED) See price on Amazon
HDMI cable / streaming stick (if TVs allowed) See price on Amazon
Power bank See price on Amazon

Buying a laptop for school? Check whether your school publishes a minimum specification before you order — RAM, storage and sometimes the operating system. A machine that misses a program's stated minimum is the one purchase on this list you cannot return your way out of. See which colleges publish a laptop spec →

Every specification is quoted from the university's own page, with the source linked.

Free shipping to your dorm: if you're 18–24 (student or not), eligible members may be able to try Amazon's Prime for Young Adults free, with fast delivery on eligible items from this list, sent straight to campus. See if you can try Prime for Young Adults free →

Eligibility and current terms are on Amazon's page. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying membership sign-ups, at no extra cost to you.

Common questions

What tech & power items do I need for a college dorm?

The 9 things to bring: surge protector with long cord, extension cord (rated for the load), laptop + charger, new laptop (if you're buying one for school), phone charger, headphones / earbuds, small desk lamp, HDMI cable / streaming stick (if TVs allowed) and power bank.

What should I know before buying dorm tech & power items?

Outlets are scarce and far from the bed. Power management matters more than you'd think.

What should you NOT bring to a dorm?

Candles/incense, halogen lamps, space heaters, hot plates and open-coil appliances, weapons, and any extension cord without a built-in surge protector are restricted at most US campuses — always confirm your specific school's list.

What changes by room: dorm room types compared.

More: Bedding · Bathroom & shower · Storage & organization · Laundry · Study & desk · Mini-fridge & snacks · or the full checklist.