Packing for your student living space requires a delicate balance. You want to bring everything you’ll need to be comfortable and avoid needing to hit the stores as soon as you arrive to look for items you forgot. At the same time, though, it’s important to avoid bringing too much, as it will be difficult to transport everything and your bedroom may feel cramped if it’s too full of stuff. To ensure you don’t fall into either of these traps, follow these dos and don’ts.
Do: Make a Packing List
You may be tempted to pack things as you think of them. However, this way of packing puts you at risk of forgetting something important and increases the chance you’ll bring things you don’t need. Before you do anything else, write a list you can check off as you go along. This will reveal anything you need to purchase and give you time to search for good deals.
Do: Coordinate with Your Roommates
Reach out to your roommates to ask them what they’re bringing to the apartment. There are many items only one person needs to bring, including a coffee maker, vacuum cleaner, and an area rug for the living room. Coordinate between you to prevent someone buying an item another roommate already has.
Do: Bring Clothing on Hangers
Since you’ll need hangers for your clothes, it makes sense to pack your clothes on their hangers. Instead of folding and then unfolding everything, you’ll be able to transfer your clothes straight to your closet. Keep all your clothes in the same place and minimize wrinkles by slipping a garbage bag over a bunch of clothes on hangers.
Don’t: Pack Out-of-Season Clothing
If you’ll be returning home on your breaks, there’s no point packing clothes you won’t need for several months. Just bring in-season clothes and switch out your wardrobe whenever you go home.
Don’t: Forget Toiletries
Eliminate the need to go shopping as soon as you arrive by bringing toiletries with you. Since the grocery stores in your college town may not stock some of your favourite brands, it may make sense to bring large supplies.
Do: Have Plenty of Towels
Laundry is a chore most college students hate. Pack plenty of towels to reduce how often you need to do a load. Having several towels will also be useful for whenever a friend sleeps over.
Do: Go Shopping for a Professional Outfit
If you don’t already have a business outfit, including this on your shopping list. You’ll need professional attire for job fairs and interviews.
Don’t: Use Boxes or Suitcases
Pack items in storage containers rather than boxes or suitcases. These will provide you with somewhere to store your belongings in your apartment, such as in your closet or under your bed.
Do: Prepare an Overnight Bag
When you arrive at your student housing, you won’t want to unpack everything immediately. Put everything you’ll need to survive your first night or two in a separate bag. This should include a change of clothes, pyjamas, toiletries, your phone charger, important documents, and any medications you take.
Don’t: Try to Do Everything on Your Own
Rely on your support system to help you pack for college. Ask family members or friends to go shopping with you and to help you transport your belongings.
You’ll be able to pack less for college if you move into a fully-furnished apartment. Foundry First is offering student accommodation near Fanshawe College. Each of our spacious suites is equipped with modern amenities, including stainless steel appliances and quartz countertops. Apply now before all the spots are taken.