What to Pack for Your Marshall University Residence Hall

Preparing for your move to Marshall University? To ensure a comfortable and organized transition, here’s a comprehensive guide on what to bring—and what to leave behind—for your on-campus living experience.​

A residence hall room in Marshall Commons

Room Essentials

  • Bedding: Twin XL sheets, pillows, pillowcases, comforter and mattress pad.
  • Laundry Supplies: Laundry basket or bag and laundry detergent.
  • Storage Solutions: Under-bed storage bins, clothes hangers and closet organizers.
  • Lighting: Desk lamp.
  • Desk Supplies: Pens, notebooks and other study materials.
  • Decor: Posters, photos and removable wall adhesives to personalize your space.
  • Curtains: Optional, as windows come with blinds.
  • Cleaning: Broom, dustpan, mop, trash bags and all-purpose cleaner.
  • Electronics: Laptop/computer, alarm clock and a power strip with surge protection.
  • Appliances: If desired, one mini-fridge (under 2.5 amps) and one microwave (under 700 watts) per room.​
Students carry items while moving into their residence halls at Marshall University

Bathroom Essentials

  • Toiletries: Soap, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant and other personal hygiene items.
  • Bath Linens: Towels, washcloths and a bathrobe.
  • Shower Essentials: Shower shoes and a caddy to carry toiletries.

Commons & First Year Residence Halls

  • Shower Curtain: Shower curtain and hooks for FY halls (provided in Commons).
  • Cleaning Supplies: Toilet brush, cleaner and plunger.
  • Rug: Small rug for comfort and to keep the area dry.
  • Trash Can: Small bin with liners for bathroom waste.
  • Toilet Paper: Initial supply to get started.​
  • Storage: Additional storage containers (mirrors do not have storage).
A decorated living room in a Marshall Commons suite at Marshall University

Electronics & Connectivity

  • Television: Optional; must be smart TV to connect to WiFi and accommodate streaming.
  • Internet: Wi-Fi is available campus-wide. For wired connections, bring an Ethernet cable.
  • Streaming Devices: Compatible with campus internet for entertainment.​
A student carries items while moving into her residence hall at Marshall University

Prohibited Items

To ensure safety and compliance with university policies, please do not bring:

  • Hot plates, toasters, toaster ovens or any appliance with an open heating element.
  • Candles, incense or any open flame devices.
  • Oil or halogen lamps.
  • Extension cords, multi-outlet plugs.
  • Space heaters or air conditioners.
  • Pets (except fish in tanks under 10 gallons).
  • Darts.
  • Unauthorized weapons (Campus Carry policy)
  • Alcohol, regardless of age.
  • Smoking devices, including e-cigarettes and vapes.​
Students moving boxes into the residence halls at Marshall University

Packing Tips

  • Coordinate with Roommates: Discuss shared items to avoid duplicates.
  • Label Belongings: Clearly mark your items with your name, residence hall, room number and cell phone number.
  • Pack Smart: Bring only what you need for the semester; you can always retrieve or purchase additional items later.
  • Essentials First: Prioritize items you’ll use daily to ensure they’re easily accessible during move-in.​