My twins are still a few years away from college (whew!), but I’m not gonna lie.
College is definitely something that’s starting to get on my mind.
Of course I’ll help out my kids and they’re not going to go hungry, but college is a time for finding your way in the world. And with that comes independence…both in life and financially.
Living on a college budget meant getting creative with just about everything, especially when it came to managing space, time, and energy.
I remember way back when during my first year, feeling like I was constantly juggling, with my dorm room quickly turning into a chaotic pile of textbooks, laundry, and late-night snacks.
It didn’t take long for me to realize that I needed some clever tricks to keep things under control.
That’s when I started finding little life hacks that made a huge difference—simple adjustments that not only saved me time but kept my budget intact and my space looking cute.
Whether it was transforming a small closet into an organized haven or discovering easier ways to study, these hacks became my lifeline for surviving and thriving in college life!
Best College Life Hacks For Students
College life can get hectic fast, but with the right hacks, you can make things a little easier.
From organizing your dorm room with smart storage solutions to keeping your study space neat, these tips help keep the chaos under control.
A few adjustments in how you manage your time and space can make studying more efficient and your room feel like a cozy retreat.
It’s all about finding what works for you and making the most of your college experience!
1. Use Command Hooks Everywhere
Command hooks are your best friend in a dorm. They help you hang everything from towels to bags without damaging the walls.
They’re perfect for maximizing your space without committing to anything permanent—and when you’re ready to switch things up, they come down with no fuss.
2. Bed Risers for Extra Storage
Raising your bed just a few inches or more opens up a whole new world of storage options.
Under-bed storage bins can hold off-season clothes, extra shoes, or even a stash of snacks for late-night study sessions.
It’s like finding hidden square footage in your tiny room.
3. Tension Rods for Closet Organization
When closet space is tight, tension rods work wonders.
They’re easy to install and can be used for hanging extra clothes, creating a space for scarves, or even as a divider for different sections of your wardrobe.
I used one for a DIY shoe rack!
4. DIY Headboard for Personal Touch
Creating a simple headboard adds a cozy, personalized feel to your dorm room.
A fabric-covered foam board or even a tapestry attached to the wall can give your bed a finished look without the bulk of an actual headboard.
5. Under-Bed Storage Bins
When dorm space is limited, every inch counts. Under-bed storage bins are awesome for stashing extra clothes, books, or even cleaning supplies.
It’s a great way to keep everything out of sight but still within easy reach.
6. String Lights for Cozy Vibes
Lighting can make or break a dorm room’s vibe.
String lights are an affordable way to create a cozy, warm atmosphere that makes your space feel more like home.
And they’re perfect for studying at night without the harsh glare of the overhead lights!
7. Multi-Use Furniture
Furniture that doubles as storage is a lifesaver.
A small ottoman that opens up can store blankets, shoes, or textbooks, and it also gives you extra seating for friends when they come to visit.
It’s all about pieces that do double duty.
8. Fabric Wall Tapestries for Color and Warmth
Dorm rooms are notorious for having bland, sterile walls.
A fabric tapestry is an easy way to add a pop of color and some warmth to your space without the hassle of paint or wallpaper.
It instantly transforms a room from plain to personal.
9. Rolling Cart for Easy Access
A rolling cart keeps your essentials within reach, whether it’s textbooks, snacks, or toiletries.
I had one by my desk that I would roll over during study sessions, and it made everything so much easier.
Plus, it’s easy to tuck away when you’re done.
10. Drawer Dividers for Desk and Dresser
Keeping things organized in small spaces is a challenge, but drawer dividers can make a big difference.
They help separate everything from socks to school supplies, so you don’t end up with a messy jumble in each drawer.
11. Over-the-Door Shoe Organizer for Everything
This one isn’t just for shoes!
An over-the-door organizer can hold cleaning supplies, snacks, toiletries, or even school supplies.
Hanging it on the inside of your closet door or the bathroom door is a smart way to maximize unused space.
12. Desk Organizer for Supplies
A clean desk equals a clear mind. Keeping pens, highlighters, and notebooks in a desk organizer helps keep your workspace tidy and makes it easier to focus.
I’ve found that having everything in its place cuts down on distractions when I’m studying.
13. Color-Coded Binders and Notebooks
Color coding is a fun and helpful way to stay organized with different classes or subjects.
It helps you instantly know which materials are for which course.
It’s such a simple trick, but it makes staying on top of assignments so much easier.
14. Sticky Notes on Mirror for Reminders
Sticky notes on your bathroom mirror are a great way to remind yourself of upcoming assignments, meetings, or even self-care tasks like drinking more water and affirmations.
Every time you get ready in the morning, you’ll see your reminders without cluttering up your desk.
15. Magnetic Strips for Beauty Products
Magnetic strips attached to the wall are perfect for organizing makeup, hair accessories, or small jewelry items.
It keeps everything visible and within reach, saving counter space in tiny dorm bathrooms!
16. Storage Baskets for Quick Cleanup
Sometimes, you need to clean up quickly before friends come over.
Storage baskets are the perfect way to throw things in and get them out of sight in a flash.
They can be tucked under the bed, in the closet, or just left out as part of your room decor.
17. Noise-Canceling Headphones
College can get noisy, especially in dorms or common study areas.
A pair of noise-canceling headphones is a lifesaver when you need to focus or want to zone out with some music while studying.
Some days when my almost-teens are getting on my last nerve, I pull out my Airpod Pro’s and zone off into mom land for a few minutes.
Trust me, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them!
18. A Whiteboard for Tracking Assignments
A small whiteboard above your desk is a great way to keep track of assignments, exams, and important dates.
It’s always visible, so you won’t forget about that paper due next week, and it’s easy to update as things change.
19. Highlighters in Multiple Colors
Using different colored highlighters helps organize notes and makes it easier to review for exams. You can highlight important points, definitions, or quotes in different colors s
that studying becomes a little more visual—and, honestly, a bit more fun.
20. Post-It Flags for Quick Reference
Post-It flags are a lifesaver when you need to quickly reference a section in your textbook or notebook.
You can easily mark pages or specific sections, so you don’t waste time flipping through trying to find where you left off.
21. A Laptop Stand for Ergonomic Study Sessions
Keeping your laptop at eye level with a stand can make long study sessions more comfortable.
It helps with posture, so you’re not hunched over your desk for hours on end.
I found that it made a huge difference in how I felt after a full day of writing papers.
22. Portable Phone Charger to Stay Powered On
We’ve all had those moments when our phone dies at the worst possible time.
A portable charger ensures you’re always connected, especially if you’re spending long hours on campus or in the library.
It’s small, convenient, and essential for staying on top of things.
23. Digital Flashcards for On-the-Go Studying
Apps like Quizlet allow you to create digital flashcards that you can review anywhere.
Whether you’re waiting for class to start or riding the bus, you can fit in a quick study session without needing a stack of index cards.
24. A Quality Planner for Scheduling
Having a planner to write down assignments, social events, and to-do lists can keep you from feeling overwhelmed.
Whether you prefer paper planners or a digital one, keeping everything scheduled helps avoid last-minute surprises and ensures you stay on top of your busy college life.
Simplify College Life With These Hacks
College can feel like a whirlwind of assignments, social events, and cramped living spaces, but a few clever hacks can make it all so much easier to handle.
By organizing your dorm, keeping study supplies handy, and finding small ways to streamline your routine, you’ll feel more in control and less overwhelmed.
Trust me, these little tricks will go a long way in making college life not just manageable, but enjoyable. And I’ve found that many of these organization skills can carry on into your adult life, your mom life and more!
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