Packing for and moving into the dorm can be challenging to say the least. Here’s what you absolutely need to know or consider when figuring out what to pack for your dorm:
1. Before buying that microwave or dorm fridge, make sure you know the university’s policy on them. Some only allow students to buy or rent those items provided by the school and some electronic items may not be allowed at all. Others may include them as standard. Here’s looking at you Sacred Heart University!
2. Once you know the policy, talk to your prospective roommate to determine who’s bringing what. No need to duplicate. Remember, space is very limited in your typical dorm room.
3. Bedding – a) Most college beds are twin XL so buy the right size sheets! b) Consider getting spacers (ie: caps for the bedposts) that add height. These come in very handy when you want more height under the bed for storage or when stacking the beds into bunkbeds, which is another good way to maximize floor space.
4. Laundry – Collapsible laundry baskets, detergent and fabric softener sheets, which are not only eco-friendly, but weigh almost nothing and take up very little space. And for those of you worrying about sorting laundry, just wash everything on cold and you won’t have to ever worry about turning your whites pink.
5. Luggage – If you’re driving distance from home, unpack your stuff and send any suitcases back with Mom/Dad. Just keep a weekend bag or backpack handy.
6. Clothing - Only bring what you need for the season. Swap out to winter clothes when you go home for Thanksgiving or winter break. If you need to take a plane or train to get to campus, invest in soft-sided luggage that you can collapse and easily store under the bed or in your closet.
7. Shoes – Get a multi-level shoe rack for the closet or one you can hang off the back of the door or from the closet pole.
8. Mail order – If you are buying any larger or heavier items, just order them online and have them shipped to you once you’re there. No need to overstuff the car.
9. Storage – If you are traveling from afar and hate the idea of packing and lugging all your belongings at the end of every year, don’t. Get a small, short-term storage unit near campus and leave your stuff there.
Hopefully, these tips will help make your move much less stressful!
Best regards,
Honoria DaSilva-Kilgore, Esq.
