The unofficial, honest UMiami packing list

Caffeine in drip form

Prepping for college can be tricky.

Incoming freshmen pack their stuff in an excitement-fueled frenzy, checking their list one last time before the long drive (or flight) to campus.

There’s more bumbling around in a freshman’s brain than simply packing. Inbound college students are saying goodbye to their family and high school friends, moving into a brand-new place and meeting people they’ll make lifelong memories with.

In the height of the rush before school starts, it’s difficult to remember every last thing. Of course, you’ve already packed the basics: laundry hamper, shower caddy, clothes, textbooks, dorm decor and your laptop.

Don’t forget the things you’ll need as a ‘Cane. Here are the top must-haves for your first year at the U.

Snacks for the dorm

I know what you’re thinking: “Why would I need snacks? I’ve got a meal plan with 14-plus swipes.”

Trust me, we call Chartwells “Shartwells” for a reason.

You’ll learn. You’ll all learn.

UM shirts, signs, blankets and more

All that merch you were given at your high school grad party? Take it with you.

Between orange or green-themed football games, Homecoming and other events, you’ll need as much stuff plastered with the U as you can get your hands on.

Besides, you can throw on a Miami tee when you’re running late for class without having to worry about planning an outfit or matching clothes.

This gnome throwing up the U

He’ll keep you motivated during finals. He’ll keep you grounded. #Majorkey.

Most importantly, he’ll remind you how lucky you are to be a ‘Cane when you want to throw your textbook against the wall and curl up in the fetal position in the stacks at the library.

A ‘Cane zombie

The true post-finals spirit animal.

Starbucks gift cards

With two locations on campus, a third across US-1 and no Dunkin’ Donuts in sight, you’ll find yourself hitting up the ‘Bux a lot more than expected.

Bring along a gift card so you don’t have to dig for spare change in between classes, or hint to your family members that some free caffeine would be a perfect way to motivate you during finals.

A coffee maker

After you use up your gift cards, you’ll need a second way to get your daily jolt of java.

Keurigs and K-Cups fit perfectly in dorms, and you’ll save money in the process. Stylistic Sebastian optional.

Sunscreen

With an average daily summer temp in the mid 80s and a UV Index rising toward the heavens, make sure to bring a bottle (or five) of sunscreen to slather on your skin during trips to South Beach.

Sure, a tan looks great on anyone, but you’ll be glad you’re not a leathery couch a few decades down the road. If you need further convincing, just look around at folks on the beach.

Save yourself from Trump’s orange glow and as many fine lines as a Shakespearean sonnet.

Umbrellas

Yes, the plural.

Around here, the wind is known to make holes in umbrellas, invert them and even snap them at their joints.

If you’re not accustomed to daily five-minute sporadic downpours and (literally) wading to class, invest in a sturdy umbrella that will last you more than one trek from the dorms to Dooley.

As a back-up, grab an umbrella from the tables outside of Richter (please don’t actually do this) or a fallen frond off a palm tree.

Tide Pods

Everyone here has a strange obsession with these for some reason. Somehow, Tide Pods have become bougie and condescendingly look down on plebeian detergent bottles.

Perhaps this is just because it’s easy to grab a few Pods and tuck them in your pocket while lugging laundry down to the first floor.

More than likely, though, it’s because bottles are more easy to steal.

A water bottle

Did I mention it’s hot yet? It’s hot. Really hot. Drink up.

Oh yeah, tuition money

Finally, don’t forget to pay your CaneLink balance that taunts you in bold font every time you log in.

Hopefully, you’ve racked up a few scholarships, grants and loans to help ease the pain. But if not, remember: it’s cheaper if you don’t pay for housing, and there’s probably a nice cardboard box around the corner that you’ll fit just right.

In all seriousness, there’s no perfect list for what to bring. Every aspect of college is a learning experience, packing included. Try to pack light, but if you bring too much, you can always drop some extra stuff off at home during Thanksgiving break.

Don’t worry about perfecting your supply list – instead, focus on the fact that you’re now a ‘Cane, and prepare for four wonderful years.

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