Student Apartments Checklist - What Off Campus Housing Bowling Green State Students Need

Whether this is your first year and you're living in an apartment, or you're moving from a college dorm (which requires a little less than what's needed in an apartment), knowing what you need to have prepared for the Bowling Green State University (BGSU) college apartment move can make the process much easier. You don't want to start your school year stressed about buying things or realizing you don't have something you need at the last minute.

From kitchen essentials to local product must-haves, we've broken down everything you'll need by category to make shopping and packing easier. Don't forget to check out our complete printable checklist at the bottom of this blog to take with you while shopping!

BGSU Campus Restore

Before diving into what items you need, we wanted to highlight BGSU's recycling and waste reduction initiative called Campus Restore, where you can find discounted clothing, books, small appliances and furniture, bedsheets, blankets, pillows, and more donated by others in the campus community. Furnishing your first place can get a little expensive, but campus options like this make things a little more affordable for students. Now, let's dive into the products you won't want to forget.

Kitchen Items

Most student apartments in the area will come with your larger appliances such as fridges, ovens, etc., so you will mainly need to worry about your smaller appliances and essentials including:

• Dishes
• Silverware
• Blender
• Pots & Pans
• Spatula, Tongs, Ladle
• Paper Towels & Rags
• Cutting Board
• Food Containers
• Microwave
• Hand Mixer

Bedroom

Your bedroom is your personal sanctuary, so make sure you have everything you need for a good night's sleep and productive study sessions:

• Mattress
• Bedframe
• Pillows & Sheets
• Blankets
• Hangers
• Dresser
• Mirror
• Desk & Desk Chair
• Shoe Rack

Living Room

Creating a comfortable common space will make your apartment feel like home and give you a place to relax with friends:

• Coffee Table
• Decor (Rug, Art, Etc.)
• TV (& Streaming Apps)
• Couch
• Side Tables
• Chairs
• Shelves
• Pillows

Bathroom

Don't forget these bathroom essentials that are easy to overlook until you need them:

• Shower Curtain
• Towels (Body & Hand)
• Bath Mat
• Toothbrush & Paste
• Toilet Paper
• Plunger
• Hair & Body Products
• Handsoap

Internet

Internet is often not the first product thought of when considering a move to a student apartment, but having a strong connection is important to ensure smooth sailing for both your school and entertainment needs. Nothing is more frustrating than your progress being deleted because autosave wasn't turned on in your online document, or lagging during games when you finally get a break from tests and coursework.

When you get your first apartment, you'll want to make sure to get enough speed for your needs from a quality company. At Buckeye Broadband, we offer great prices and speeds for students, such as our limited time $20.27 until 2027 offer. You can call 419.724.9800 for more details. Additionally, with same-day install options, you won't have to worry about being disconnected when you arrive.

Lighting

Not every apartment has overhead lighting, so you'll want to make sure to check if you'll need lamps and find where the outlets are so you can plan your layout ahead of time. Consider:

• Lamps (Floor & Desk)
• Light Bulbs
• Extension Cords
• Batteries

Cleaning Supplies

Keeping your place clean is essential for both your health and getting your security deposit back:

• Vacuum
• Broom & Dustpan
• Glass Cleaner
• Trash Can & Bags
• All-Purpose Cleaner
• Laundry Basket
• Detergent & Dryer Sheets
• Rags or Scrubber
• Various Cleaners (Toilet, Tub, Sink)

Utilities

Make sure to take note of whether your apartment covers utilities or not. If they don't, you will need to reach out to companies to register an account in your name. Common utilities include:

• Gas: Columbia Gas of Ohio - (800) 344-4077
• Electric & Water: City of Bowling Green - 419-354-6246
• Trash/Recycling: Often included with rent, but check with your landlord

Extra Essentials

Don't forget these additional items that can save the day:

• Tool Kit
• Rubbing Alcohol
• Cold Medicine
• Hydrogen Peroxide
• Small Sewing Kit
• Bandaids
• Iron & Ironing Board

Winter Gear

If you aren't from Ohio, you need to prepare for the cold season, and even if you are from the state, it's well known in the BG area how windy it can get. You'll want to be prepared when you leave the apartment, especially if you walk or take the shuttle to campus instead of driving. Essential winter items include:

• Heavy winter coat
• Warm gloves and hat
• Waterproof boots
• Scarves
• Warm socks and layers

Don't Panic If You Forget Something

If you do miss a thing or two, don't panic! In Bowling Green, most stores are very close to one another. You have a Meijer, Kroger, and Walmart all within 10 minutes of campus, and there's a campus shuttle that takes students to Meijer (as of June 2025, it's the green east route) if you don't have a way to get around.

Ready to tackle your apartment shopping? Use our complete checklist below to make sure you don't forget anything important!

Power Your College Experience with Entertainment and Connection From Buckeye Broadband

Starting college in your first apartment is an exciting milestone, and having reliable internet shouldn't be something you have to worry about. With Buckeye Broadband's student-friendly pricing and lightning-fast speeds, you can focus on what really matters: your studies, staying connected with friends and family, and enjoying your free time with seamless streaming and gaming.

Moving into your first apartment is a big step toward independence, but with proper planning and this comprehensive checklist, you'll be well-prepared to make your new place feel like home. Remember, you don't need to buy everything at once. Start with the essentials and build up your apartment over time. Welcome to your new adventure at BGSU!