The 5 Most Important Things to Pack for College (That You Won’t Find at Target)

The 5 Most Important Things to Pack for College (That You Won’t Find at Target)

Don’t look now, but summer is halfway over!

As fun winds down and reality kicks in, there’s a rush of college-bound students and parents hitting the aisles of Target, Walmart, and Bed Bath & Beyond—loading up carts with dorm must-haves, school supplies, and more. And while I highly recommend a blender and a crock pot (if allowed—check your campus housing rules!), most of the items truly critical for college success won’t be found in any store.

That’s right, what matters most doesn’t come with a price tag.

As someone who’s worked with thousands of college students, I can tell you firsthand: the students who pack the right mindset, habits, and self-awareness are the ones who thrive. Not just academically, but socially, emotionally, and professionally too.

So, before you zip up that suitcase, make sure to pack these 5 critical college success tools:

1. An Awesome Attitude

Your attitude is a decision you make every day, and it’s one of your most powerful performance tools. Whether you’re walking into class, tackling a tough workout, or navigating roommate conflict, how you show up matters. An awesome attitude can elevate your energy, build confidence, and help you stay grounded, even when things get tough.

College Performance Tip: Practicing attitude awareness now will serve you long after college ends. Mindset is everything.

2. A Time Management Plan

If you haven’t practiced one yet, start now. Time management is one of the top coaching needs I see with students. Waiting until Week 1 on campus to “figure it out” is a major source of stress. A simple, well-planned schedule gives structure, lowers anxiety, and frees up time for the stuff you enjoy.

Use your calendar like a teammate: schedule study blocks, workouts, meals, and downtime. Success is in the structure.

3. Enjoyable Stress Management Strategies

Let’s be real, stress is part of college life. But how you manage it can make or break your experience. Without proactive self-care, stress turns into burnout. Choose strategies that work for you: walking, yoga, journaling, fitness classes, cooking, meditation, whatever keeps your mental and physical health on track.

Need help managing campus stress? Tune into the Mental Health University podcast for actionable tips to stay grounded through midterms, finals, and everything in between.

4. Self-Awareness

This is one of the most underrated skills you’ll need in college. Self-awareness means understanding your habits, behaviors, triggers, and how you impact others. It influences your ability to form relationships, work in teams, seek help, and grow from feedback.

Building self-awareness now helps you become a better leader, learner, and human in the long run.

5.  Flexible Thinking

College will challenge the way you think, and that’s a good thing. Those who adapt, problem-solve, and approach challenges with curiosity instead of defensiveness are the ones who succeed long-term. Your ability to be flexible in thought (not just book-smart) is what employers and grad schools look for.

Growth happens when you step outside your comfort zone. Resilience starts with mental flexibility.

This fall, don’t just pack for your dorm, pack for your personal success.

The right mindset will carry you further than any backpack or storage bin ever could.

A Note to Parents:

As you help your student gear up for campus, encourage them to think beyond the packing list. Ask about how they’re feeling, what support they may need, and how they plan to care for their mind, not just their GPA. Help them prepare for the transition, not just the dorm setup.

Want to keep the conversation going all year long?

Subscribe to the Mental Health University Podcast —hosted by Dr. Joel Ingersoll for practical guidance on college mental health, academic performance, motivation, resilience, and more.

Whether you’re a student or a parent, each episode delivers expert insights to help navigate the real-world challenges of college life.

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

Parents, if you’re losing sleep watching your student spiral, you’re not alone.
We help students rebuild from failure fast while giving parents peace of mind and proven results.  Learn more: Dr. Joel's College BounceBack Coaching