The Ultimate College Packing Guide for Your Soccer Student-Athlete
- Jennifer Dunaway
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
Help your athlete settle into college with everything they need to succeed in the dorm, the classroom, and on the field.*

Sending your child off to college is emotional enough—and when they’re a student-athlete, there’s even more to think about. Between housing, classes, and soccer commitments, making sure they have the right gear and essentials packed can give both of you peace of mind.
This guide is designed to help soccer parents make sure their student-athlete is fully prepared for move-in day and the demands of college life.
🛏 Dorm Room Essentials
Most college dorms are outfitted with a Twin XL bed, so be sure bedding fits that size.
Must-Haves:
Twin XL sheet sets (at least 2)
Mattress topper (these make a huge difference)
Small fan (many dorms don’t have air conditioning, this one has a HELPA Filter)
Parent Tip: Include a few personal touches from home—family photos, a soccer team banner, or a favorite blanket can help ease the transition.
🧠 Desk & School Supplies
Balancing practices and academics is part of the college athlete experience. A well-stocked study area can help your athlete stay organized.
Must-Haves:
Backpack or soccer-friendly bookbag
Access to a printer (either personal or campus-based)
Dry erase board or planner
Nice-to-Haves:
🚿 Bathroom Supplies
Whether they’re in a shared suite or communal bathroom, portability and hygiene are key.
Must-Haves:
Towels (2–3 bath towels, hand towels, and washcloths)
Toiletries (shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, etc.)
Hair products and brushes
First-aid kit (include pain relief, cold meds, athletic tape)
Tissues and extra toilet paper (some dorms don’t supply)
🧺 Laundry & Cleaning
Yes, your athlete will need to do laundry—especially when workouts and two-a-days are involved.
Must-Haves:
Laundry basket or bag (mesh or foldable is ideal)
Laundry detergent (pods work great)
Parent Tip: Go over how to use the laundry machines before they leave—it can save you a late-night call later.
⚽ Soccer Athlete-Specific Supplies
This section is key. As a college athlete, your child will have practice and games multiple times a week and needs to be organized and prepared.
Must-Haves:
Cleats, turf shoes (check out Soccer Village, they are an OSMD Sponsor)
Practice gear (plan for at least a full week)
Workout clothes and compression layers
Team gear (warmups, travel sets—these may be provided)
Water bottles (2–3, clearly labeled)
Athletic tape, pre-wrap, braces
Recovery supplements or drink mixes (if approved)
Nice-to-Haves:
Extra charger for their soccer backpack
Ice pack or portable cold wrap
Portable agility tools or jump rope
Reusable snack bags or protein bar stash
Final Parent Reminders
Label everything. From water bottles to cleats, labels help prevent mix-ups.
Coordinate with roommates. Things like mini-fridges, microwaves, or fans can often be shared.
Check with the school and team. Every school and soccer program has its own policies, including what’s provided and what’s prohibited in dorms.
Download a printable version below.
Watching your child become a college student—and a college athlete—is a proud moment. With a little planning (and a solid packing list), you’ll send them off with confidence, knowing they’re equipped to handle dorm life, schoolwork, and the game they love.
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