First thing first: You'll want some heavy-duty bags for move-in day. Why? Because they're easier to carry up a flight of stairs than cardboard boxes, and they'll protect your gear from the elements. We suggest these foldable 24-gallon totes, which are made from waterproof polypropylene and outfitted with zippered closures. They can also conveniently double as under-the-bed organizers for your off-season clothes.

Bed lifts are a college student's best friend. Carve out even more storage space beneath your bed with these heavy-duty risers. Each riser features an adjustable, two-tier locking design that gives you an additional three, five or eight inches for bins and boxes.

If you're planning to loft your bed, then go ahead and grab this hanging storage caddy. (You'll thank us later.) The stylish piece is made from felt and features a large pocket for your laptop, plus smaller pockets for your phone, glasses, pens, notebooks, etc. In turn? You won't have to climb off of your bunk if you're studying or on your way to falling asleep.

Sadly, most dorms don't include a full-length mirror. Instead of buying one of those flimsy over-the-door deals, shop this sturdy — and far more functional — hall tree. You can check your outfit in the mirror, hang your backpack or coat on the hooks and kick off your shoes in the lower compartment. Best of all? The mirror can create a faux entryway in your bedroom or common room.

Storage ottomans are definitely the unsung heroes of dorm living. Not only can you use this upholstered cushion as an extra seat for small study groups or impromptu movie nights, but you can also store throw blankets beneath the lid. This ottoman is so cute and compact, we have no doubt that you'll enjoy it all four years.

Do your future self a favor and invest in a desk riser. This sleek wooden stand will lift your laptop to a more comfortable height and help reduce neck and eye strain (especially when you have to pull an all-nighter). At the same time, the integrated shelf will keep your phone, student ID and other essentials within arm's reach.

From smartphones and laptops to e-readers and video game consoles, there are endless things that need a plug in a dorm room. Minimize the visual clutter (and keep your space looking as stylish as ever) with this cable management box, which hides power strips. The bamboo lid can also double as a shelf for personal items.

Bringing your Xbox or PlayStation to school? Keep your controllers neat and within arm's reach via this metal stand. The unit features three arms and a round base and is compact enough to fit on your desk or media stand.

For seasonal items that you don't need immediately (like sweaters and heavy coats), we recommend these fabric storage cubes. You can slide the bags right under your bed or stack them at the back of your closet and use the clear windows to identify what's inside. The zipper closures protect against dust and water damage, too.

Say hello to your new kitchen station. This slender rolling cart is a dream for the dorm with three shelves for supplies and a flat wood top that can serve as a small prep surface or extra storage. You could use it as a coffee cart, kitchen pantry or a catchall for anything else you need a place for. Plus, it's super affordable at under $40!

If you're lucky enough to have an en-suite bathroom, then add this flex shower caddy to your packing list ASAP. The piece is crafted from rust-free silicone (so it's easy to clean), and it boasts two adjustable shelves for you and your roommate. The caddy comes with four hooks, too, just in case you need to hang your razor or loofah.

If you're working with a communal bathroom, then you'll want this mesh shower tote to transport your toiletries back and forth to your room. It'll fit all the necessities, and it even comes with a protective pouch for your phone.

Every second counts when you're rushing to an 8 a.m. class. Keep your hair dryer, straightener, brushes and other styling products at the ready with this clever storage caddy. The heat-resistant frame slides right over the cabinet door and offers an integrated shelf and three slots for your tools.

You can't add towel hooks to the walls, but you can snag this versatile rolling cart for your bathroom. Thanks to its narrow silhouette, this piece can slip right next to your stall shower or between your vanity and toilet. You can also use the top bars to dry towels and bath mats and the lower shelf to store toiletries or cleaning products.

When standard-issue wardrobes and shared closets aren't enough, shop this freestanding clothing rack. We love this specific design because the frame juts away from the wall so you can slide the clothing rack into any awkward corner. Plus, the unit features an integrated shelf for shoes and accessories.

Getting ready for the day is even easier when your supplies are all in one place. We love this plastic makeup organizer because it features multiple slots for brushes, foundation, bronzer and blush, not to mention a drawer for cotton swabs and bottles of cleanser or moisturizer. You can keep the unit on your desk and use the detachable mirror for a closer look.

Laundry might be the least of your concerns now, but trust us on this one: You want a backpack hamper. In addition to keeping your clothes off the floor, this textured striped hamper collapses to be stored out of the way when you're not using it. The bag features two drawstrings and can be carried like a backpack for easy transportation to and from the laundry room.

For those days when you'd definitely rather study or read in bed, you need to snag this stylish bamboo tray. The woven top provides a flat surface for your books or laptop, while the round side compartment makes room for writing tools or noise-canceling headphones.

Don't leave your passport, prescriptions or emergency cash lying around. Instead, keep those valuables organized and out of sight with this heavy-duty lockbox. The exterior shell is fireproof (just in case), and it can only be opened with your key. You can stash the safe under your bed or in the back of your closet.