The list of essential items for boarding students in their rooms isn’t actually hard to figure out. However, without any references, we often end up wanting to bring everything along—thinking that it’s better to be overprepared. But what exactly are the things that are truly useful during the early stages of boarding life?
Let’s break it down in this article!
Essential Items for Boarding Student Should Own
Here’s a list of must-have items for anyone living in a boarding house:
Multi-functional Rice Cooker
While many boarding houses provide a shared kitchen, long queues can waste your time. If your boarding house allows electronic appliances and you’re using prepaid electricity, a multi-functional rice cooker is a must. It can cook simple meals and save you money and time.
Basic Cleaning Tools
Cleanliness is a must, especially when you live independently. At the very least, have a broom, mop, duster, and trash bin for daily cleaning.
Raincoat & Foldable Umbrella
As the saying goes, “better safe than sorry.” Always have these ready to make commuting easier—especially since many boarding house residents use public transport or motorcycles.
Basic Medicine & First Aid Kit
Living independently means being ready for unexpected situations, including getting sick. Prepare basic medications like paracetamol, antacids, wound care, and other common remedies—especially if you have pre-existing conditions.
Foldable Storage Boxes
Portable items are highly recommended for boarding house residents who may have to move frequently. Foldable storage made from fabric and sturdy cardboard is affordable, easy to store, and saves space.
Extra Plastic Shelves
Most boarding houses only provide a mattress, wardrobe, desk, and chair. That might be enough at first, but over time—especially if you use skincare, read books, or have hobbies—you’ll need more storage. Modular plastic racks are easy to assemble and help keep your room tidy.
Hanging Organizer
These help keep clothes neat, especially ones you’ve only worn briefly and plan to wear again soon. They also save wardrobe space and improve organization.
Clothes Iron
An iron is a must if you want to keep your clothes neat and wrinkle-free—especially if you decide not to rely on laundry services.
Eating Utensils
Everyone needs to eat. Make sure you have the basics—plates, glasses, spoons, and forks. Having at least two of each item is ideal in case a friend drops by.
Clothes Hangers
Essential for drying your laundry and hanging towels. Don’t underestimate their usefulness in keeping your space orderly.
Foldable Drying Rack
Most boarding houses have a communal laundry area, but if it’s full, a personal drying rack helps keep your clothes from getting musty.
Power Strip / Extension Cord
Boarding rooms often come with only one power outlet. A power strip ensures you can charge your phone, laptop, and other devices simultaneously—saving both time and hassle.
Gallon Water & Electric Pump
Staying hydrated is vital. Rather than constantly buying bottled water—which is wasteful and costly—opt for a gallon of drinking water and an electric pump for easy pouring.
Shoe Rack
Keep your room tidy and aesthetically pleasing with a shoe rack—especially if your boarding house doesn’t provide one.
Doormat
It may seem trivial, but it’s essential for preventing slippery or wet floors—especially when you’re moving between the bathroom and your bed area.
Schedule Board
Living on your own in a new place can be overwhelming. A creative schedule board can help organize your daily routines and weekly meal plans. It also adds a personal touch to your space.
When Space Starts Running Out…
Becoming a boarding student for the first time isn’t easy. Over time, you’ll likely accumulate more belongings based on your lifestyle and routines. One thing you’ll quickly realize: space is limited.
If your room starts to feel cramped, reorganizing might help—but it’s not always enough. Moving to a bigger room may not be practical or affordable.
This is where flexible storage services like SpaceHub come in. SpaceHub offers monthly storage units in various sizes—from lockers to spacious rooms—so you can store items you don’t need daily without cluttering your living space.
SpaceHub currently operates in four key locations:
- MH. Thamrin
- Bendungan Hilir
- Gajah Mada
- Daan Mogot
Book your unit today and safely store the essential items that matter most to your boarding life.
Learn more: www.spacehub.id
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