Packing list tips for GRIP (Genealogical Research Institute of Pittsburgh)

I promised a few people I would share a packing list for this summer’s GRIP. I am teaching the week of July 16-21 in my intermediate level course. People seem to know that I like to be prepared for just about anything. Of course, your packing list will differ depending on whether you fly or drive. These are in no particular order and are directed at those staying in the dorms. A dorm is a dorm, not a 5 star hotel. I have stayed in a dorm room every year at GRIP. If you have other suggestions, please add them in a comment.

a couple clothespins to close a bag of snacks
snacks for between lectures
comfortable shoes (2 pair so one can rest for a day)
laundry bag
headphones (you may need quiet for a while or to listen to a different kind of music than your roommate)
soap, shampoo, conditioner, lotion (remember, it’s not a hotel where these are supplied)
razor, shaving cream
toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant
makeup
prescriptions
disinfectant wipes
post-it pad – leave notes for yourself or a roommate
umbrella (it has rained at times)
sweater or lightweight jacket in case a classroom is chilly
throat lozenges or hard candies in case you get a scratchy throat
chargers and a power strip for phones, tablets, and computers
account passwords
business cards so others can find you after GRIP (Add the surnames you are searching)
water bottle that doesn’t leak and that can be refilled during the week
don’t forget to bring any over the counter or prescription medications
your own pillow if you can’t sleep without it!
mattress pad or topper (some do bring one; sheets and a light blanket are supplied)
thicker towels than what are supplied
small fan (I like the room quite cool but my roommate is the opposite)
desk lamp
cable for Internet, no wifi in dorms
power strip
tissues
hair dryer/curling iron
some hangers
Some paper towels (you really don’t need a whole roll)
paper bags/trash bags (rooms have a small wastebasket)
rubber bath mat
couple file folders for any extra handouts
pad of paper and pens/pencils
computer or electronic tablet for taking notes and for homework
highlighter for marking items in syllabus
clothing (definitely not optional)
headphones (you may need quiet for a while or to listen to a different kind of music than your roommate)
soap, shampoo, conditioner, lotion (remember, it’s not a hotel where these are supplied)
razor, shaving cream
toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant
makeup
prescriptions
disinfectant wipes
post-it pad – leave notes for yourself or a roommate
umbrella (it has rained at times)