Where to buy dorm stuff – and what to buy before going back to school

Here's where to buy dorm stuff, whether you're a freshman looking for inspiration or a senior searching for upgrades

Where to buy dorm decor graphic with Airpods, digital bedside clock and Keurig machine
(Image credit: Future)

Are you already wondering where to buy dorm stuff this year? The new school year is creeping up on us, and it's always best to be prepared than to leave things to the last minute, right? Which makes right now the perfect time to get that ball rolling. And luckily enough, we've found a few back to school sales on right now, with everything from dorm decor to dorm essentials and tech, all discounted.

Whether you are in the market for storage for your freshman year dorm or lighting to spruce your space on a budget, perhaps it's some new stationery or even some upgraded tech to see you through senior year, we've got it covered — and at the best prices, too. 

We've rounded up the Real Homes Edit of where to buy dorm stuff this year — and what to buy! We've also got an ultimate guide on dorm room essentials

Where to buy dorm stuff this year

1. Macy's

Macy's is the first place to head for dorm essentials and decor, with everything from stylish home decor to affordable tech and budget-friendly bedding up for grabs.  Plus, you can get an extra 20 per cent off selected buys using the code SHOP.

2. Target

Over at Target, you can shop plenty of dorm buys to spruce your space for less this September. We're talking greenery from $5, throw pillows from $6, mirrors from $7, and lighting from $8. Prices this cheap shouldn't be missed...

3. Dormify

The clue's in the name with this one, and there's a whopping 50% off sitewide right now. The ultimate place to shop for anything and everything for your dorm room, no matter your style, it's all here.

4. Amazon

Possibly the most obvious place to shop for dorm decor, Amazon is easy, speedy and convenient, especially for Prime members. Here, you can pick up appliances, bedding and decor at the same time.

See below for our must-have picks. This includes essentials such as a lunchbox, backpack, laptop or laundry detergent, and supplies for your studies plus there's a deals section so that you can bag a bargain.

5. Home Goods

Shop the Home Goods Back to Campus section now for an array of discounts that won't last much longer. Think of everything from stylish soft decor to sturdy storage solutions and more. There's nowhere else to go if it's affordable dorm decor you are searching for. You can also shop Home Goods clearance section for more discounts.

6. Walmart

Perhaps an obvious go-to, but Walmart is great for more than just food items and electronics. In fact, we've found some pretty stylish buys in their Back to College range. You can shop by category, from laptop & tech to study stuff (think desks and chairs), supplies & backpacks and even small apartment finds.

7. BestBuy

Don't forget about BestBuy when it comes to appliances and tech for your dorm room. Think coffee makers, laptops, speakers and more. Currently, there are some brilliant deals online for members. From $50 off the MacBook Pro and $370 off Windows Laptops.

What else do you need to buy for your dorm room?

If you're upgrading your sleep setup in your bedroom, then these $150 mattress toppers should be on your radar. Otherwise, we have rounded up some budget-friendly bedding sets for you to browse. We've done some shopping for bedroom organizers, too, if you're keen on a neat and tidy dorm room.

When thinking about your clothes, shoes, and handbags, you can maximize your space with a closet organizer or two. If you won't have a closet, then buying a clothes rack would make complete sense.

When it comes to actually studying, see our guide on Amazon office chairs, to study comfortably. And if you need a printer, we've tried and tested some of the best small printers around.

Annie Collyer
Head Ecommerce Editor

Hi! I'm Annie, and I'm the Head Ecommerce Editor at Real Homes. I've been part of the Real Homes team since 2018, when I joined as Deals Editor. Along with covering major sales events — from Black Friday to Amazon Prime Day — I review home must-haves so that you can buy with peace of mind. Mostly focusing on home fragrance and sleep, as well as a few vacuum cleaners, I've tested pretty much every item you can think of that you need in your home. I live on the outskirts of the city in a two-bed apartment with my husband and my pug, Doug. So I am always searching for compact alternatives and ways to save floor space. What about when I am not typing away? Well, you'll find me enjoying an iced coffee (no matter the season) and trying out the latest brunch spots the city has to offer, or booking my next holiday. Where else can you find my words? Livingetc, Homes & Gardens, Ideal Home, Gardeningetc, and Woman & Home.

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