What to pack for college

Soon you will be packing your bags for college. But, you are not sure what and how to pack for college. Many freshmen have the same dilemma. What boxes and suitcases to use? What items are essentials in college dorms? Making a packing list will help you avoid bringing too much stuff or forgetting something essential. We are here to help you make the packing list that will ensure you will pack the right items. It is a good start and you will start a school year without worries and returning items to your home. If you have too many items to pack, or you are making a long distance move, you should consider hiring the best cross country movers to help you relocate to college with ease.

Are you an incoming freshman this year? We’ll help you pack for college

Be aware that packing can be a very stressful and complicated task, especially when you are a freshman. You are sad because you are leaving your home, parents, and friends. You have to change your life completely and to take a long trip. It is a very confusing time to pack for college all you need. The golden rule is: try not to overpack and do not pack items you won’t use. And remember, packing is a process. Be patient and you will be successful. If you are not sure how to do it properly, the best you can do is to hire long distance movers South Carolina to help you pack and unpack your items safely and efficiently.

Laptop, sunglasses, clothes and shoes in suitcase
Do not overpack when moving to college. Only bring the items you will need for sure.

Packing guide

Bring comfortable clothes and shoes

Moving across the country for college isn’t easy. When packing your clothes and shoes you have to think about the college location and the climate. You need comfortable clothes that are convenient for climate and activities in your college dorm. Also, think about the activities you like to participate in. If you like sports, make sure to pack your sports equipment.
You should avoid overpacking, and pack only a few outfits for formal affairs (presentations and interviews), other clothes should be casual and shoes should be comfortable. To sum up, here is a list of clothes and shoes you should bring:

  • Comfortable clothes and shoes for classes
  • One or two formal outfits
  • Work-out clothes and shoes
  • Bathing suit
  • Light jacket
  • Heavy coat and scarf – If you are moving somewhere with low temperatures
  • Rainwear
  • Slippers
jeans you should pack for college
Pack your casual clothes and comfortable shoes for college

Stuff for Your Room

Call your future roommate or get in touch with your college dorm. Find out how big your room is and what items your room has. In this way, you can easily decide which appliances, decorations, storage boxes…you should bring with you. There are a few items you will need for sure: pillows, clothes hangers, dishes, cups, computer, cell phone chargers, bed linens, desk lamp, hairdryer, paper towels, etc.

Stuff for Bathroom

In a college dorm, you will share the bathroom. So, don’t forget to pack:

  • Shower shoes
  • Soap and shampoo
  • Towels
  • Shaving cream and razors
  • laundry basket and laundry detergent
  • Dishwashing soap
  • First-aid kit
  • Medicines.

Stuff for College – things you will need for studying

  • Computer/laptop
  • folders, Paper, Dictionary
  • Calculator, Day-planner, etc.

Other useful things you should pack for college

When you are done packing your personal items there are a few important things you should bring with you:

  • Important documents
  • Credit card
  • Umbrella
  • Flashlight
  • Sports equipment
  • Batteries, snacks, etc.
Bed in the college room
Don’t forget to pack bed linens for your college room

What NOT to pack for college?

When you start packing for college, you should know what not to pack for college. To know exact what not to pack, you should contact college dorm to check rules and regulations. Most colleges don’t allow the following things:

  • Hotplates and toasters
  • Air conditioners
  • Candles
  • Pets
  • Waterbeds
  • Nail picture hangers

Other important college packing tips

1. Coordinate 

Get in touch with your roommate(s) before start packing. Coordinate who will bring electronics that you can share, such as the television or microwave. The college room is small so coordinate the packing if you want to avoid clutter in your small space.

2. Pack for the Season

If you are able to travel home during the holidays than you should bring the clothes you need for the season. You can swap the seasonal clothes when you go home during breaks.

3. Make an Essentials Box

When you pack all the items you need for college, the last you should pack your essentials. The box with essentials should include items you need for the first days and nights such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, medication, a phone charger, drinking cups, sheets, and pajamas.

4. Pack Light

Remember to pack light because you will carry the boxes if you do not hire professional movers. Do not fill every box to the top of it. Also, avoid packing and carrying heavy boxes. Make sure each box is properly packed so it is easy and comfortable for carrying for each member of your family. And remember, minimalism is the key for successful packing.

 

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