Carnegie Mellon University

What to Pack

The following lists are designed to provide you with some general information regarding what to pack. Be sure to coordinate with your roommate(s) to eliminate duplicate items in the room.

What's Already in Your Room

  • Bed with 39" x 80" extra long mattress
  • Safety rails and ladders for a bunked bed
  • Desk and chair
  • Closet or wardrobe (as applicable) and a dresser
  • Window coverings
  • High speed Internet service
  • Basic cable TV service with activated cable TV jack 
  • Routine maintenance (students pay separately for room and public area damages.)
  • Utilities, such as electricity and running water

The Essentials: Things You Will Definitely Need

  • alarm clock
  • backpack
  • clothes (and remember, it gets cold in Pittsburgh!)
  • clothes hangers
  • desk lamp
  • laundry basket or bag
  • linens and towels (sheets, pillows, washcloths, etc.)
  • laundry soap
  • mugs, cups, plates, utensils
  • storage bins
  • toiletries (soap, shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrush, deodorant, etc.)
  • umbrella
  • driver's license or passport

Choosing the Right Cookware for the Residence on Fifth Induction Stove

  • Only use cookware with a base suitable for induction cooking. Look for the induction symbol on the packaging or on the bottom of the pan.
  • You can check if your cookware is suitable by putting a magnet near the base of the pan. If is attracted, the pan is suitable for induction cooking.
  • Cookware made from the following materials is not suitable: pure stainless steel, aluminum or copper without a magnetic base, glass, wood, porcelain, ceramic, and earthware. Do not use cookware with jagged edges or a curved base.

The Extras: Things You May Want to Bring

  • bicycle and bike lock
  • camera
  • computer
  • fan
  • games
  • headphones
  • iron
  • power strip or surge protector
  • stereo, CD player, or speakers
  • television
  • microwave (must be compact and operate under 700 watts)
  • refrigerator (must be smaller than 4.5 cubic feet and operate on 110/120 VAC)

Photo of mother and daughter hugging and a microfridge

Microfridge units are also available for rent through Microfridge Rentals.

Shipping

If you're traveling from far away, you're welcome to mail some of your belongings ahead of your scheduled arrival. Carnegie Mellon's Post Office will begin accepting student packages no earlier than mid-August. More information on how to properly address your mail and where and when to send it can be found on the Postal Services website. For any additional questions, please email Postal Services or call them at 412-268-5616.