The Ultimate Back-to-School and Dorm Room Guide

Ready, set, semester! Whether you're tackling your first dorm move-in or heading back for another year, having the right gear makes all the difference. From beauty must-haves to clever life hacks, time-saving shopping tools, and delivery services, we've rounded up everything you need to kick off the school year smoothly. Turn Your Dorm or Apartment Into a Vibe on a Budget: AliExpress . An incredible online shopping destination for scoring big style and smart savings... and right now they're having a huge sale through August 27th, with deep discounts on some of the hottest back to school gear and stylish decor to make your dorm or apartment feel like your own space. With a few fun and functional finds, you can totally transform even the tiniest space into a cozy, personalized haven. Think cool, calming, and clever -- like a dreamy Japanese lantern for under $9 or a rain cloud humidifier that sets the perfect chill vibe for late-night studying. Small space? No problem. Smart solutions are everything. We're talking a foldable mini washing machine (yep, under $28!), multi-tiered shoe racks to save floor space, and genius 5-layer hangers that help make the most of your closet. Need hidden storage? Faux books with secret compartments are a total steal -- under $6 and cute enough to display. AliExpress is packed with these kinds of unique finds -- from portable monitors and mini karaoke machines (both under $70!) to quirky picks like a capybara backpack or on-trend sneakers for just $27. The best part? You can stack coupons for even bigger savings. They have fast delivery too in as little as five days, delivery guarantees, free shipping on certain things, and free returns within 90 days. Just download the AliExpress app via App Store or Google Play and check them out online at aliexpress.com . The Comfiest Upgrade for Your Dorm Life: LoveSac . Let's be real -- dorm rooms aren't exactly known for their comfort. But if you're looking to turn yours into a cozy little oasis, LoveSac is a furniture brand that totally gets it. Their Footsac blankets are perfect for keeping you cozy during those late-night study sessions. If you're missing the comforts of home, they have a comfy pocket for your feet and come in more than 20 different super-soft fabrics, and some are even heated. Then there's the CitySac. It's the ultimate chill-out spot -- big enough to sprawl out, but small enough to fit perfectly in your dorm. Whether you're reading, studying, or just taking a break between classes, this seat feels like you're sitting on a cloud. Pair it with the Squattoman and you've got the perfect setup. The best part? You can totally customize the look. With over 150 interchangeable covers for their sacs and Squattomans, you can match your mood, your aesthetic, or whatever vibe your room is going for. Ready to level up your dorm comfort? Head to lovesac.com and check it out. Level Up Your Beauty: Milk Makeup Hydro Grip 12-Hour Hydrating Gel Skin Tint . Now a new school season calls for leveling up your beauty routine because as the seasons change, you'll want extra hydration for your skin. Milk Makeup Hydro Grip 12-Hour Hydrating Gel Skin Tint is the first-of-its-kind, weightless gel base you put on before you put on your makeup or even just alone to get a beautiful natural dewy finish. It's made with triple-powered hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, squalane, blue agave, aloe water and hemp seed oil, to boost moisture and visibly smooth your skin, and keep your makeup gripped on for up to 12 hours. It looks like you just put it on - even at the end of the day and comes in 15 buildable shades. Get it for $38 at ulta.com .