Need help thinking of what to pack? Campus Life has your back!

To help make AU your home away from home, we put together a list of tips and "things to bring" so you get an idea of what you might need to pack or purchase!

Essentials

Bedding

  • Extra-long (80") twin sheet bed set
  • Pillow(s)
  • Comforter or blanket (extra blanket recommended)
  • Mattress topper (optional, but recommended)

Bathroom

  • Towels and washcloths
  • Shower caddy
  • Shower shoes (sturdier sandals that will not slip and slide easily are recommended)
  • Toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, medications, etc.)

Laundry

  • Laundry basket or bag
  • Laundry detergent
  • Dryer sheets
  • Hangers

Clothing
Pack for a variety of weather conditions and campus activities, including:

  • Everyday clothes
  • Athletic wear
  • Business/professional attire
  • Jacket or coat
  • Rain gear

Technology

  • Laptop or computer and charger
  • Headphones or earbuds
  • Power strip/surge protector (UL-listed only)
  • Desk lamp (non-halogen)
  • Chargers for any desired electronic devices

School Supplies

  • Backpack or laptop bag
  • Pens, pencils, notebooks, binders
  • Planner or calendar
  • Calculator (if needed for your courses)

Nice to Haves

Room Comfort

  • Mini refrigerator (4 cubic feet or smaller)
  • Microwave (700 watts or less)
  • Floor fan
  • Area rug
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Coffee mug or travel mug

Entertainment

  • TV
  • Streaming devices
  • Gaming console

Organization and Décor

  • Storage bins
  • Under-bed organizers
  • Desk organizers
  • Dry erase board or cork board/calendar
  • Photos and decorations
  • Paint-safe hanging products
    (no drilling, nails, push pins, duct tape, etc. in the furniture or the walls)

Dining

  • Plates, bowls, cups, and utensils
  • Food storage containers (airtight)
  • Dish soap
  • Snacks

Health and Cleaning

  • Facial tissues
  • First aid kit
  • Cleaning wipes or spray
  • Paper towels
  • Small vacuum, broom, or other floor cleaning items
  • Small trash can for room
  • Air freshener

Miscellaneous

  • Batteries
  • Sports or recreational equipment
  • Games
  • Umbrella

Leave These at Home

For everyone’s safety, the following items are to be left at home:

  • Adhesive-backed lights/light strips
  • Oversized items and additional furniture
  • Halogen lamps or neon lights
  • Candles or open-flame items
  • Appliances with exposed heating elements
  • Cooking appliances (except microwaves up to 700 watts and coffee makers)
  • Multiple outlet adapters ("octopus" cords)
  • Air conditioners
  • Hoverboards
  • Waterbeds or personal bed lofts
  • Pets (except fish in tanks up to 10 gallons)

For more information and additional policies, please review the A-Book (policy book).

Helpful Tips

Your AU ID
Your Aurora University ID is your key to campus. Keep it safe and don’t bend, break, or puncture it. You'll use it for:

  • Residence hall access
  • Meal plan swipes
  • Library services
  • Campus events

Getting Around Campus 
You are welcome to bring skateboards, longboards, bicycles, or scooters for transportation. These should be used for travel only, as using these items in the residence halls or performing tricks on campus is prohibited.

Parking 
You may bring a vehicle to campus at no cost. All vehicles must be registered with Campus Public Safety. Registration can be completed during move-in or after arrival. For more information, visit Campus Public Safety’s webpage.