1. Shop early. The closer it gets to summer and dorm shopping season the higher the prices go. I just went to Target a few days ago and got a really warm and cute comforter for $11. I also got bed risers with outlets for $7 and an over the door ironing board for $10. These things are all going to be really useful for my room and I got them for a fraction of the normal price.

2. Pillows and throws are essential. In college, I am prepared to not be getting as much sleep as I do now; so I am going to make my bed full of pillows and blankets so it is super comfortable and I get a good night's rest every night. I also think that a nicely decorated bed can completely transform any dorm room. The pops of color and design can help tie together the theme of the room and bring it to life.

3. Go. To. Ikea. Visiting Ikea will be one of the best decisions ever. Even on the days where I leave there empty handed the trip was a success because I left with tons of new ideas. Ikea is filled with staged rooms that give a clear picture of what you can do with Ikea items. Although a lot of their furniture has to be put together, it is totally worth the extra work especially for smaller dorms. Their lines of furniture and other items are all designed to make spaces more accessible and organized.

4. Check out Pinterest. Pinterest is another one of my go to places for college dorm ideas. There are several articles from actual college students that give advice on things nobody wants to forget when going away to school. I have actually created a college dorm board and have gathered so many cool ideas that I reference when I’m shopping for new things.

5. Be smart with the college shopping money. Don’t go on one huge shopping trip. Instead, make a list of all the things you are interested in purchasing and buy them in small clusters. That way works better because  it’s easy to compare prices across different places without rushing to purchase the first thing that is available.