BRIGHAM COLUMN: Tips to get your dorm room ready

If you've got kids heading off to college, it's time to start thinking about shopping for their dorm rooms. Here are a few tips to make the transition easier.

Research school rules

Many schools have rules that limit what kind of items students can bring into their dorm rooms. For example, schools might not allow hot plates, toaster ovens or other kitchen appliances. Bed Bath & Beyond offers different schools' lists of do's and don'ts at bedbathandbeyond.com/shopforcollege.

Follow a checklist

Use a checklist to break down all the essentials students need.

“A checklist is important because it helps to keep both parents and students organized and on budget while shopping,” says Danielle Sherman, spokeswoman for Bed Bath & Beyond Inc. “Shopping for college can be an overwhelming experience and it's easy for students to forget items that they are used to having around their homes, like hangers.”

Roommate tag team

Once students learn who they'll be living with, they should contact their roommate(s) and decide ahead of time who will bring what items to the room for everyone's use.

Registries

Online registries are a great way for friends and family members to help out students heading off to college, Sherman says.

“For relatives that live far away and want to give students graduation gifts, this is an easy way for them to see exactly what the student wants and needs for campus living,” she says.

Check out the Charleston Savvy Shopper blog at postandcourier.com/savvyshopper. You can also sign up for our Daily Deals at www.charlestonsavvyshopper.com.

Email Shannon Brigham at charlestonsavvyshopper@postandcourier.com.