Influencers are making money online by recommending dorm products and designs to families, who spend thousands of dollars on back-to-college shopping. Credit...Kendrick Brinson for The New York Times ...

Going off to college is a major milestone in a young person's life, and it's normal for parents to help with some of the expenses and furnishings for dorm rooms. But one mom may have taken it too far.

Dorm life usually means squeezing into twin size beds, maximizing limited closet space, and navigating communal bathrooms. So when you're packing, it pays to be smart. Every item should work hard and ...