Over the next few weeks, anyone visiting Target may end up stuck behind a few parents with their carts full of dorm room necessities (brooms, plastic hangers, mirror, shower caddy, etc.)
Many of those shoppers will rely on tried and true discount stores and big box stores to get the traditional dorm room items. But a lot has changed since those parents were in college. Here are some other resources to consider when shopping for dorm room deals this year:
Dorm in a box: This family owned company offers bundled packages of dorm room necessities such as towels, twin XL sheets, electronic items, tools for organization and more. You also have the option of creating your own box filled with whatever you need. In either case, you will save up to 20 percent over shopping big-box stores or other online sources, the company says. Check the "deals' tab for penny items and check social media for additional discount codes and deals.
Target College Registry: You can register for almost anything these days, why not your dorm needs? Visit Target.com to create, manage or find a college registry. For now, the service is only available online. You can purchase items in-store but you can't print or update registries at the in-store kiosks. The registry will list your name, the college you are attending, the date and all of the items you desire. Target also offers college dorm shoppers the opportunity to create a bundle and save up to 10 percent.
Dormify: This is the place for fashion minded college bound girls who want high design for their dorms. The site offers design advice and inspiration specifically suited to the small spaces. In addition to being able to purchase everything you need from the windows to the walls of your dorm (their reference, not mine,) they also have a blog and style ambassadors at high schools and colleges nationwide that you can consult for design help.
Dorm Co.: Billed as the "college dorm supplies superstore" this site offers dorm deals at low prices. For example, a 44 piece dorm essentials set which includes all bedding, towels, shower caddy, silverware, laundry bags and more costs $169. Shipping is $2.95 for all items with no minimum purchase. The company was formerly a wholesaler who supplied all the big-box stores with dorm stuff, so this is the same gear you would find in stores without a retailer markup.
Tun.com: This has nothing to do with dorms, but once you have settled in, the deals don't have to stop. The University Network is a free app that helps college students nationwide save on a variety of services, restaurants and activities. Download the app and you are able to view and access deals near your school. The deals are typically student discounts or specials that are available when you show a student I.D.
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