When I first left high school, I was constantly on the lookout for college moving tips. Moving into college, especially for the first time, can be so stressful. You don’t know what to expect, what to bring, and sometimes, who you’ll be living with! Whether you’re moving into college for your first year or your last year, these college moving tips will help you tremendously as you prepare for this change in your life!
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1. Pack Light
You may read this tip and think that this is a no-brainer. It seems like one of the most obvious college moving tips. I would’ve thought so, too, however, it’s easier said than done. Depending on what big items you’re bringing, like a microwave, fridge, or futon, buy items that can be moved easily. I didn’t, and because I moved out a few months before my roommate, I let her have my futon, simply because I didn’t want to bother with trying to move it. After all, you will be moving out of your dorm in about nine months. Make life easier for your future self.
2. Stick to the Essentials
When I initially went to college, I packed every article of clothing I owned. I don’t know why, because I was lucky to live close enough that I could go home whenever I wanted to get more clothes. Moving your entire wardrobe into your dorm is unnecessary if you’re going to school relatively close to home.
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3. Set up Your Fan First
Chances are, you’re moving into your dorm during the worst heat of the summer. Before you start unpacking or building anything, plug your fan in. Even if you have air conditioning, that tiny dorm room will get hot and humid fast.
4. Pack Clothes in Suitcases
Whether you’re driving or flying to your destination, packing your clothes in suitcases is the easiest option when you’re moving into a dorm. I made the mistake of packing all of my clothes in huge, plastic storage crates. When the elevator broke and my brother and I had to carry the storage crates up eight flights of stairs, we were not happy, to say the least. Put your clothes on hangers and then pack them in suitcases. It will save you time and a headache.
5. Figure out What You’re Given
Know what your school gives you. It could save you a ton of money. Some schools will give you a microwave and fridge, and others will give you neither. Some may have wireless Internet and a free printing service, while some may require you to purchase both. Look into what your school offers before you buy any unnecessary items!
6. Bring Tools
Bringing a toolbox never even occurred to me when I moved into a dorm. I didn’t realize that “moving in” would turn out to be a code word for “spending hours trying to assemble a futon without any real tools.” You may be excited to get into your dorm and decorate with all of your cute new home décor finds; the actual move-in necessitates a tool box.
7. Talk to Your Roommate
There’s a pretty good chance that both of you together have almost everything you need before you move in. You may have an old printer lying around, and she might have a wireless router. You may have an older sibling’s microwave, or maybe you already purchased one. It is so important to talk to your roommate before you buy anything, though. Worst-case scenario, you both bought refrigerators that you can’t return. Collaborate with your roommate, even if you don’t get along. It will save you so much money in the long run.
What are your college move-in tips? Let me know in the comments!
Comments
Katie: You can also ask your parents to send you your clothes as the seasons change. Then you won't have to worry about bringing too much with you.
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