6 Dorm Must-Haves That Won’t Break Your College Budget

Going to college is a time of self-discovery, and one of those discoveries is that a textbook might cost five times as much as the shelf it sits on. Fortunately, Walmart has plenty of deals on dormitory essentials, like this three-tier bookcase on sale for only $20.78.

But for day-to-day dorm life, you’ll need more than a plastic bin to keep junk under your bed. The following Walmart bargains will help you get started.

Mesh Shower Caddy Portable Tote Bag ($7.88)

You’re not living at home anymore, which means you’re taking your toiletries with you to shower or brush your teeth. This quick-drying Siaomo Natural Caddy Tote has eight pockets for all the body wash a young adult needs. The mesh tote can also be thrown in the washing machine and reused at the beach, gym, or grocery shopping.

Mushroom Desk Lamp, $19.99

Shopping with limited funds typically means prioritizing function over fashion, but thanks to a $50 discount, this cordless and rechargeable mushroom lamp can help you study in style while keeping your desk a little less tangled.

Solid Down Alternative Comforter, $26.89 (Queen)

You’re going to need a lot of rest after all-nighters spent cramming for exams. Curl up under the affordable, machine-washable JUSTLET Comforter. (The queen size is slightly less expensive, but most dorms have twin beds, so be sure to check.)

Standing Floor Full-Body Mirror ($54.99)

It’s crucial to have a full-body mirror for an occasional reminder that you’ve been wearing the same pants for three consecutive days. With a massive $144 markdown, this arched BEAUTYPEAK Full-Length Mirror will leave you with cash to spend on fresh outfits.

Ergonomic Cross-Legged Swivel Chair ($104.69)

The adjustable Pinmoco Ergonomic Cross-Legged Swivel Chair ($225 off with a temporary Flash Deal) has a unique two-level design optimal for “cross-legged, squatting, kneeling and other postures" — so college students can meditate, study, or just have better lumbar support while hanging out, even if you’re a decade or two away from worrying about back pain. Hey, $225 in savings will buy a lot of ramen.

Stainless Steel Travel Mug ($14.99)

You can’t sustain yourself through undergrad on coffee alone. Thanks to WaterTok, staying hydrated is cool again — and there’s nothing cooler than refilling 40 ounces with a JUSTLET Vacuum-Insulated Tumbler for a clearance deal of $14.99 instead of a Stanley for $35.99, which is way too much for a cup that you’ll just forget on the quad.

Take advantage of Walmart Black Friday furniture and mattress deals to upgrade your dorm before the end of the year!