As many seniors prepare to embark on their college experiences, the process of planning everything dorm-related quickly rises to the top of their to-do lists. Moving up to thousands of miles away and living with a stranger (or two or three) while attempting to find everything you will need in your new home away from home can be incredibly overwhelming. Aside from the long lists of required essentials, there are many obscure items that can make dorm living much more bearable. Some of the following overlooked gadgets make dorm living more practical while others simply provide a decorative element to counter the dullness of a traditional college dorm. So whether you’re looking to spice up your new home or make your new life a little easier, here are a few ideas to consider adding to your dorm room shopping list.

Mini Portable LCD Pocket Projector, $74.99, Amazon

The first on the list of obscure dorm gadgets is a mini projector. This mini projector might not have come to mind at first when buying dorm room essentials, however, it shouldn’t be omitted from your list. Whether it be for “The Bachelor” marathons or binging new Netflix shows, this mini projector is perfect for movie nights and easy to hook up to your phone or computer. Not only is it super simple to use, but it can also double as a way to make friends. Leave your dorm door open, project a classic on the wall and watch your neighbors roll in. This mini projector can be bought on Amazon and can be projected at any time of day on any surface, not to mention, it won’t take up much storage space in your already tiny room, making it a great investment.

Aromatherapy Essential Oil Diffuser and Alarm Clock, $59.99, Amazon

You may need a little relaxation after a long day of sleeping through your morning classes, so, why not get a diffuser? The lavender and chamomile scents will eliminate the stress of your new workload. Even better, this diffuser doubles as an alarm clock. You may not be able to wake up to the smell of homemade pancakes anymore, but this Breakfast Club Fragrance Oil is a worthwhile stand-in. Additionally, a diffuser can be a great alternative to burning candles in your dorm without having to worry about burning the whole building down. Definitely a plus! This diffuser/alarm clock duo can be purchased on Amazon and will be the perfect addition to your new room.

Felt bedside caddy  $22.95, Indigo

With most dorm rooms measuring roughly 12 by 19 feet, storage space very quickly becomes limited. These bedside pockets conveniently tuck into the side of your bed, creating storage for shoes, technology, snacks, books or anything else you may regret bringing from home. Also, for those who have the misfortune of getting the top bunk without a bedside table to store your stuff, these double as a great place to put your belongings. Bedside pockets are available to purchase on Indigo and are a great way to maximize your space.

4-Piece USB Bed Lift Set, $49.99, Bed Bath & Beyond

This four-piece USB bed lift set, available at Bed Bath & Beyond, is extremely practical and perfect for optimizing storage space. Lifting your bed up, these small blocks allow for additional storage and minimize the excessive amounts of extension cords needed. Simply plug your phone, computer or your new diffuser into the outlet attached to these lifts for a convenient way to power anything you may need. These are a great alternative to those already planning to\ buy bed lifts as they have the addition of a built-in USB. The more storage space you can create in that small room, the better!

Shower Speaker, $15.00, Indigo

Honorary mention: A Shower Speaker. While not exactly an essential for your dorm room, this inexpensive and waterproof shower speaker may make this quintessential college experience of the dreaded communal showers a little better. With the assumption that you plan to get most of the communal shower essentials (shower shoes, a shower caddy, etc.) this speaker is a nice finishing touch to your shower shopping list. It can conveniently be attached to any wall and easily connects to your phone, so you can blast your tunes (although not too loudly). This speaker is only $15 and can be purchased on Indigo.

While the transition into college and dorm living can be hard, these overlooked additions will make your new room feel like home. All while practically adding storage space, making the place smell better and helping you enjoy movie nights with your new BFFs.