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Going off to college is a huge transition and, for many of you, it is the first time you will be living on your own. Some may live in an apartment off campus, but many will live in a dorm room. College residence hall rooms are not known for being spacious sanctuaries. The average dorm room is 180-square-feet! 

With such little room to work with, you need to get creative with your furnishings. And, with much of your college expense going to tuition, you also want to be smart about your purchases. Here are a few tips to help you save money and space. 

Only buy what you truly need 

Before you start making a list of things you need to buy, check with your college to see what they provide for your room. The typical dorm room will already have beds, dressers and desks so you won’t need to worry about those. Most colleges will also provide a list of what not to bring, which can range from ceiling fans to certain cooking appliances.  

Bonus tip: if you are going to have a dormmate, check with them to see what they plan on bringing. There’s no use in both of you bringing a microwave if you can share one! 

Multi-use furniture is a must  

With the limited space you will be working with, try to find furniture that can be used for multiple purposes. For example, see if you can find a headboard with shelving or use storage ottomans as chairs for your desk. Finding items that can work as both furniture and storage is a great way to get the most bang for your buck. 

Hang it up 

Vertical space in your room can be converted to storage space with items like over-the-door shoe racks or hanging baskets. Using command hooks to secure wire shower caddies is perfect for storing everything from cleaning supplies to office supplies for your desk. 

Look under the bed 

See all that space? Put it to good use! You may have space under your bed to store large totes. This could be a great space for winter clothes, especially if you don’t see yourself visiting home until the end of the fall semester. It will save you from spending money on clothes if the weather changes! 

Bonus tip: buy a mattress caddy instead of a nightstand! It will save you valuable space and is a thrifty alternative. 

We hope that these tips will inspire you to make the most of your dorm room. Be creative and, most importantly, have fun with it!