When I was preparing to go to Phillips Academy I had no idea what to buy. I spent hours making a spreadsheet to budget my shopping and after a year, I barely wear the clothes I bought last summer and feel like I didn’t have anything I needed. Nobody I knew went to boarding school and I was flying in the dark. Luckily you don’t have to.
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- Sweatpants
Many boarding schools are on the east coast which means cold weather. Even if yours is not, sweatpants are a must for warmth and comfort. Adding leggings or even thermal leggings underneath was perfect for cold days when I wanted to be comfy.
Aritzia’s Cozy Fleece Mega Lo-Rise Sweatpant are a reliable option.
H&M’s joggers are a great low-budget version.
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- A heavy-duty winter jacket
Another east coast boarding school essential. Classes are almost never cancelled due to snow so make sure to buy a good quality winter jacket. If possible, this is something to splurge on so it will last for years.
Patagonia is a very good place to shop for warm jackets.
Columbia is a more affordable option, but remember, winter jackets are an investment!
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- Solid-colored t-shirts
Relaxed, comfy basic tees are a must. They are perfect for lounging but can also be dressed up.
Madewell has a great option.
Zara has an affordable and good-quality option, as well.
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- 2-3 Reliable Jeans
As a self-identified jean collector, I have many pairs but having 2-3 jeans that fit well and are in different colors are a must and can add depth to your wardrobe.
Abercrombie has great denim.
American Eagle has a wide variety of jeans.
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- Quality sneakers
Owning a good pair of sneakers is more important for boarding school than you think. You are going to be on your feet a lot and it’s best to be comfortable while moving.
The Hoka Cliffton 9 is an extremely comfortable and reliable shoe.
A lower-budget option is the Under Armour Essential Sportstyles.
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- A reasonable-sized water bottle
A water bottle is essential because you will most likely be active during your time at boarding school. Getting a medium size is important because water bottles that are too big are often hard to transport. Avoid small water bottles because you will have to fill them often.
The Hydroflask is a popular and reliable water bottle.
The Owala water bottle is my personal favorite but, for some, the straw can be too much of a hassle to clean.
While these are great options, a BPA-free water bottle at any price point will work.
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- Shower shoes
Unlike many, I am not going to shame you if you did not know shower shoes are necessary for communal bathrooms. But, now you know that shower shoes protect you from nasty infections and they should be purchased.
Any flip-flops work but if you want a shoe that is made for the shower, these from Amazon are a sturdy option.
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- A duvet and duvet cover
Having a duvet insert and duvet cover gives you much more freedom when it comes to bedding. You can switch up the color of your bedding by buying a new duvet cover and they are easier to wash in a dorm washing machine than a comforter.
Here’s a plain-colored duvet set. Make sure you purchase the “twin/ twin XL” size.
A highly rated duvet insert. Again, get it in a “twin XL”.
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- A good computer
It may be tempting to buy a cheaper computer but investing in a computer that will last will save you more money and make your schooling much easier. If you cannot afford a computer, contact your school and they may be able to provide you with support.
Check out this article on how to receive free or reduced-price computers for low-income families.
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- An open mindset.
Yes, the last item on our list is a corny one but it’s true. Don’t close yourself off at boarding school. Every new experience is an opportunity for you to learn and grow. Don’t take it for granted.
