Pack These 9 Things and Thank Us Later
Pack These 9 Things and Thank Us Later
Move-in season is officially here! Thousands of students moved into dorms and apartments this weekend, with millions more getting ready to move in over the next few weeks.
We talked to students and families who just moved in and asked what they were SO glad they packed β or wished they had. Here are 9 of their "why didn't I think of that?" move-in must-haves for everyone still packing.
β¨ Follow us on Instagram for daily tips, trends, and must-know moments along the college journey!
Pack a βFIRSTβ bag β Chargers, scissors/box cutter, wipes, paper towels, medications, water and snacks. Everything youβll want before the boxes are unpacked.
Make the bed FIRST β Especially if itβs lofted. You do not want to be dealing with a mattress topper and fitted sheet at the end of a long move-in day.
Label your moving bags β BED, DESK, BATH, CLOTHES. Youβll know exactly where everything goes when you unload.
Take photos before you unpack β Document any scratches, stains or existing damage before you move everything in.
Check the prohibited-items list β Every school is different, especially when it comes to extension cords, power strips and appliances.
Bring fewer clothes than you think β Dorm closets are SMALL. You can always swap seasonal clothes during a trip home.
Donβt toss packaging right away β Make sure lamps, fans and electronics actually work before getting rid of boxes and receipts.
And parentsβ¦know when to leave π β Help with the heavy lifting, make the bed, take the pictures, give the hugβ¦and let them start their adventure.
The 9 Must-Have Items
1. DOORSTOP
Prop your door open during those first few weeks. An easy way to meet people on your floor.
2. SMALL TOOL KIT
Hammer, screwdriver, pliers, tape measure. A move-in day lifesaver for all the random things that need fixing or assembling.
3. FOLDABLE STEP STOOL
For lofted beds, high closets and that top shelf you definitely can't reach.
4. EXTRA-LONG POWER STRIP
Because the outlet will inevitably be nowhere near where you actually need it.
5. 10-FOOT PHONE CHARGER
A must when your bed is lofted or on the opposite side of the room from an outlet.
6. MINI CLEANING CADDY
Disinfecting wipes, paper towels, trash bags and a mini vacuum. Nobody thinks about cleaning supplies until something spills.
7. COMMAND STRIPS & HOOKS
Bring more than you think you'll need. From decor to cords to bags, something always needs hanging.
8. OVER-THE-DOOR HOOKS
Instant extra space for towels, jackets, bags and wet clothes without taking up precious dorm-room real estate.
9. FIRST-AID + MEDICINE KIT
Thermometer, Band-Aids and basic OTC essentials. You don't want your first drugstore run to be when you're sick.