If the main objective is to add softness to the mattress, then a pillow-top or egg-crate pad is the way to go. If you are concerned about protecting yourself from dust mites or icky stuff left my by the last person who slept on that bed, then you may want to consider a mattress pad or barrier cover (a barrier cover envelopes the entire mattress). The best thing to do would be to contact your RA (resident assistant) to find out what she recommends... she should know how comfortable (or uncomfortable) the mattresses are and what you will need. It is good to be prepared, but I think that all of the "back to school" advertisements can suck you into buying things that you won't really need or use. So, check with your RA and also take a look at your current mattress... the dorm beds will probably be pretty basic, so if you are used to sleeping on a very soft, fluffy bed, you will probably want a pillow-top.

Do you like a soft bed or a firm bed? You may be assigned a room with an old mattress. I would recommend getting a padded mattress topper, for sanitary reasons as well as comfort. Also, you will probably need twin extra-long sheets; a lot of stores have them on sale this month. Check with your school to see if that is the correct size. Get a bedding set you like, or if you are going to have a roommate, you may want to coordinate colors/patterns with him or her. If you have a comforter, blanket, or afghan that will remind you of home, you may want to bring those. Don't forget a comfortable pillow; many should also be on sale this month. Good luck in college, and don't forget to get enough sleep!

(Can you tell I'm a mom?)

I'm an incoming freshman and I've been dorm shopping lately. A bunch of stores have mattress pads, mattress toppers, egg crate pads, etc. for the dorm bed. Which option (or a combination of options) is the best to get to make my bed as comfortable as possible without going too overboard with the expenses?