Living in the city, everything you need is within just a few blocks – but it pays to figure out where to find the best deal. The Hatchet has created a go-to guide for buying your basics.

Food

…a dorm-friendly meal?
Go to Trader Joe’s at 25th and L streets. They are notorious for their relatively tasty frozen foods section with internationally inspired meals. It’s a bit of a trek from Thurston, but worth it when you want a lower bill than you’d rack up at Whole Foods Market and have time for the trip.

…a cure for my hangover?
The last thing you want to do when you’re hung over is wait for a table before brunch. Head to Bread and Chocolate at 23rd and M streets for omelets, French toast and Pfannkuchen – German-style crepes filled with berries, Nutella, ham or cheese.

…a date night restaurant that won’t break the bank?
Impressing a date can be nerve-wracking, especially when you risk seeing half your class at the Circa at The Avenue. Try Firefly at New Hampshire and N streets for a trendy, intimate dining experience. The space is dimly lit with wooden “barnwood” décor, creating a sustainable “farmhouse” feel. There is a whole list of shareable menu items, along with plenty of vegetarian and gluten-free options in case your date has a diet restriction.

…a good late night eat?
You may have heard of the famous Manouch by now, but there are options other than greasy hot dogs to fill your late night cravings. Try Kramerbooks & Afterwords Café in Dupont Circle. They are open until 1 a.m. during the week and 24 hours on weekends. The menu is full of sandwiches, salads, breakfast items and ethnic foods, and the attached bookstore will put any struggling student straight into study mode.

Fun

…some GW spirit gear or a costume for a mixer?
The bookstore is full of GW garb, but it can get pretty pricey. Georgetown’s Total Fright at 32nd and M streets is open year-round, and sells colorful gear and costumes for any dress-up event.

…decorations to liven up my dorm room?
The poster sale in Kogan Plaza makes shopping for wall art simple, but you will end up seeing a lot of the same Abbey Road or Twilight posters. Instead, head to Rooms with a View in Georgetown, at 33rd and N streets. The store is full of original paper goods and party accessories that will look great on any wall.

…an off-campus escape from the GW bubble?
Get back to some true Colonial roots, and spend the day in Old Town Alexandria, Va. Cobblestones line the streets of this quaint, historic village, and you won’t fall short on unique dining options – cupcake shops included. Shopping and historic attractions provide the perfect day away from the GW hustle and bustle.

Essentials

…some good, but cheap kitchen supplies?
A freshman dorm doesn’t offer much kitchen creativity, but for the essential bowls, plates, cutlery and cups, Bed Bath & Beyond in Columbia Heights is your best bet. They’re always giving out coupons, so make sure to stock up and split the cost with your roommates.

…notebooks, pens or printer paper?
The trip to Staples at 19th and L streets is worth it for all of your school essentials, considering the prices at the GW bookstore and CVS. Staples tends to have great sales for back to school, too.

…storage bins, boxes or shelves?
You’ll be able to find everything you need and more at Bed Bath & Beyond and Target in Columbia Heights, located right across from each other. But for some fun colored storage items, try Paper Source in Georgetown at 30th and M streets. They have really unique items that will give a drab dorm room life and originality.