No matter if you live 30 minutes or over 10 hours away from where you attend college, moving in is very stressful. Some of the hardest tasks include trying to find the most efficient way to pack and move all your belongings. Being a veteran myself, I have a couple tips and tricks to assist you while you move in.
# 1 Less is More
I know this seems deceiving but trust me, packing light will save your life. After my first two years of college, I finally learned that bringing less stuff gives you more storage space. I know, SHOCKING! This storage space is convenient because you can buy more things at school or bring more stuff from home!
# 2 Space saver bags are your new bestfriend
You can buy a variety pack of different sized space saver bags, depending on what you are storing and packing. The variety pack space saver bags typically cost around $20 making it affordable if you are on a budget. These bags make packing a lot easier because you can fit a lot more things in smaller spaces. Also, you can reuse them!
# 3 Seasonal Clothes
For the love of god, do not bring your winter clothes in the summer. I have learned this the hard way! Only pack clothes you know you will wear (this includes shoes) or bring clothes you can layer over the early months of fall. If you travel back home, you can bring back winter clothes or have your parents send you clothes!
# 4 Toiletries & Jewelry
I also learned this one the hard way. Don’t waste space in your car or suitcase with that quarter full shampoo, conditioner or dry shampoo bottle. You can always buy these things after you move in. Not packing these things you will allow space for more essentials. Try packing bracelets and earrings in small containers so that you don’t lose them. For necklaces I use press-n-seal wrap, like you would normally use in the kitchen. Lay down your necklaces on the sticky side and then take another sheet and lay it on top. It allows the necklaces to stay in place and not get tangled while traveling!
Pro tip: I always pack a couple small bins like these ones from Target: https://www.target.com/p/56qt-clear-storage-bin-with-feather-peach-or-gray-assorted-lids-room-essentials-153/-/A-53968875 (if you are driving) to pack my medicines and other small things so that I don’t lose them!