Welcome, new and returning UCSB and SBCC students! Moving to the Isla Vista area is an exciting new chapter, but let’s be real – the packing process can be a little stressful. Trying to figure out what to bring to college without overpacking or forgetting a “life-saver” item is a challenge.
We’ve got your back.
This ultimate college packing list is designed to make your transition smooth and stress-free. Our goal is to help you get ready for an amazing year, so you can focus less on packing and more on the excitement of your new home.
For specific details about your move, be sure to check out The Cove’s Move-In Day FAQ!
Key Takeaways
- The Cove offers fully furnished apartments, meaning you can leave bulky items like beds, desks, and couches at home, saving you space and money.
- This ultimate college packing checklist is divided by room and category, making it easy to see exactly what you need to bring.
- Coordinating with your roommate before you move in is essential to avoid bringing duplicate items like a microwave or toaster.
- Living at The Cove provides access to incredible amenities, including kitchens in every unit, simplifying your kitchen items packing list.
- Focus on bringing items that make your space feel like a home away from home, like personal decor, photos, and comfortable bedding.
The Ultimate College Packing Checklist for The Cove
Bedroom Essentials
Your bedroom is your personal sanctuary. Since The Cove provides the main furniture – a Twin XL bed frame and mattress, a dresser, and a desk – you can focus on making it comfortable and uniquely yours.
Ready to see where you’ll be living? Explore our spacious floor plans to get a better look.
Bedding:
- Twin XL comforter or duvet
- Twin XL sheet set (2 sets recommended)
- Pillows
- Mattress topper for extra comfort
- Blankets
Storage & Organization:
- Hangers for your closet
- Storage dividers for the under-the-bed dressers
- Desk organizer
- Command strips and hooks to hang items without damaging walls
Electronics:
- UL-certified surge protector and power strip
- Extension cords
- Alarm clock
- Portable speaker (or headphones for study time!)
Bathroom & Toiletries
Time to stock up on personal hygiene must-haves. This is another area where it’s a pro-tip to coordinate with your roommate on shared items like cleaning supplies or a bathroom trash can to save space and money.
For the Shower:
- Shower Organizer
- Towels (bath towels, hand towels, washcloths)
- Shower shoes (flip-flops)
- Shampoo, conditioner, body wash
- Razor and shaving cream
Personal Items:
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, and holder
- Deodorant
- Skincare products
- Hairbrush/comb and styling products
- Small trash can for the bathroom
5BR/5.5BA – Coral
Kitchen Items for Your Apartment
One of the best parts of living at The Cove is having your own kitchen! We provide the major appliances (refrigerator, oven, and microwave), so you just need to bring the tools to whip up your favorite meals.
Cooking & Eating:
- Pots and pans
- Dishes (plates, bowls)
- Silverware (forks, spoons, knives)
- Drinking glasses and mugs
- Cooking utensils (spatula, whisk, etc.)
- Can opener
- Food storage containers
Small Appliances (Tip: Coordinate with your roommate!):
- Coffee maker
- Toaster or toaster oven
- Blender
- Water purifiers
See all of our amenities to check out everything our community offers.
Academics & School Supplies
Set yourself up for academic success with the right tools. Whether you’re studying at your in-unit desk or in one of our community study lounges, these school supplies are essential.
Must-Haves:
- Backpack
- Laptop and charger
- Notebooks, binders, and folders
- Pens, pencils, and highlighters
- Planner (digital or physical)
- Printer (optional, but convenient)
Cleaning Supplies & Laundry
Keeping your apartment clean is key to a healthy and happy college experience. Don’t forget to pack these cleaning supplies and laundry essentials.
Cleaning:
- Disinfectant wipes
- All-purpose cleaner
- Paper towels
- Trash bags
Laundry:
- Laundry bag or basket
- Detergent and fabric softener
- Dryer sheets
Things People Forget
Here’s a quick list of items that are commonly overlooked during the packing process but are incredibly useful to have.
- First-aid kit (band-aids, pain relievers, antiseptic wipes)
- Small toolkit (screwdriver, hammer, duct tape)
- Umbrella or rain jacket
- Reusable water bottle
- Door stopper
What to Leave at Home (The Cove Has You Covered!)
Save space in the car! As a resident of our fully furnished apartments, you don’t need to worry about packing these large and cumbersome items. This is a huge advantage over a traditional residence hall or an unfurnished apartment.
Always check your lease agreement for a full list of prohibited items and remember to coordinate with your roommate to avoid duplicates.
Do NOT Bring:
- Bed frame or mattress (a Twin XL is provided)
- Living room furniture (sofa, chairs, coffee table are included)
- Huge TVs
- Major kitchen appliances (refrigerator, oven, microwave are in your unit)
- Any items prohibited in the lease agreement
For the full list of what NOT to bring, check out the Move-In Day FAQ!
FAQs: Your College Move-In Questions Answered
You should not bring items that are prohibited for safety reasons, like candles and personal space heaters. Also, leave redundant items at home – The Cove already provides furniture like a bed, desk, and sofa, as well as major kitchen appliances. Always check your lease agreement for a full list of prohibited items and remember to coordinate with your roommate to avoid duplicates.
Making your space feel like home is important! Use damage-free solutions like Command strips and hooks, removable wallpaper, or tension rods for curtains. You can add personal touches with photos, posters, string lights, and decorative pillows to give your room personality without leaving a mark. Get inspired by our virtual tour to see how you can make the space your own.
We recommend packing the absolute essentials first, then buying bulkier or forgotten items after you arrive. This saves precious car space on move-in day. The Cove’s convenient location makes shopping a breeze, with major stores like Target are just a short drive away.
Make Your Move to The Cove Easy and Enjoyable
Moving to college is a big step, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With this checklist and a home at The Cove, your transition can be exciting and seamless. The convenience of a fully furnished apartment, combined with incredible amenities and a prime location for UCSB and SBCC students, sets you up for an amazing college experience.
Ready to start your college journey at The Cove? Contact us today to learn more or schedule a tour!
Molly Garner
New Development Community Manager
Meet Molly Garner, the Property Manager leading the charge at The Cove in the vibrant UCSB market. With a proven track record in student housing and a passion for creating exceptional living experiences, Molly is dedicated to building a thriving community for residents.
