A Freshman's Guide To College Packing
Start writing a post
Lifestyle

A Freshman's Guide To College Packing

What all freshman should know about packing for college.

8
A Freshman's Guide To College Packing
Jessica Bolduc

For any freshman starting their new life at college, this fall will surely be a time of both discovery and excitement. However, it might also come with its fair share of stress. Last year, as I began making preparations to move into my new dorm, I found myself hung up on one thing in particular: packing. This was something that I hadn't really given much thought to until I'd actually gotten out my suitcase and started to fill it with clothes. As I began to realize that I wouldn't be able to bring everything, packing became a sort of battle between what I thought I would need and what I really wanted to take.

If you're a freshman this year, you might find yourself in the same predicament, but fear not! This past year has given me far more insight into what should and should not be taken to college, and I have some tips that will help you decide what's really worth bringing.

The main thing to keep in mind when packing for college is that you'll want to make sure your clothes are well suited to the weather conditions at your school. For example, someone in the heat of Texas would probably not need to pack the same clothes as a student in the New England area. However, if you plan to go anywhere in the Midwest, be prepared to experience the full range of seasons. For the fall semester, a good mix of both short- and long-sleeved shirts, as well as shorts and jeans, would be advisable.

Also, don't forget about breaks. For those who plan to return home, breaks are a great opportunity for a wardrobe shift, especially if you anticipate a seasonal change. Fall break is the perfect time to exchange the tank tops and sandals for flannel and boots. By switching out your clothes in this way, you will be able to maximize your storage space, while also giving your style a fresh vibe.

When deciding what else to bring (besides clothes), the most important thing to remember is that less is more. If your haven't used something for three years, it's obviously not a necessity. Remember that your storage space isn't infinite. As far as large items are concerned, the only thing I've found to be useful is a mini fridge. Microwaves may come in handy as well, but I never had one, and I never really found myself wishing I did. However, this was mainly because we had a communal kitchen on our floor. This is something you may want to research before going out and buying a brand new microwave. The kitchen--if you have one--will usually include a fridge as well, but unless you don't mind food thieves, it would be best to store your goods elsewhere.

Entertainment appliances, in my opinion, are a bit of a packing gray area. Some people (myself included) find it useful to have TVs in their room, for all your typical Netflix marathon emergencies. However, I've found that most people go without and never have any regrets. This is because the year is 2016, and anyone can watch TV shows and movies from the comfort of their laptop. TVs may be useful for large groups of people, but if you're just watching by yourself, they're not necessary. The only exception to this would be if you plan on bringing a gaming system. I'm not much of a gamer, but I did have a Nintendo Gamecube in my room (yes, they still exist), so having a TV to go with it was rather convenient. However, none of these things were extremely essential to me. My advice concerning entertainment would be to take what you're comfortable with, but don't feel like any of these things are necessities.

Finally, if you have any doubts about what to bring, just ask yourself one question: "Is this something I'd be uncomfortable living without for the next few months?" If the answer is yes, then you should probably take it. Even if you forget to bring something important, most things can be shipped or brought back over a break. Also, remember that you'll probably end up with more space than you'd originally planned. Dorms may seem small, but they're designed with storage in mind. Besides, as the year goes on, you'll get the feel for what you can and can't fit. Also, don't forget that this should still be an exciting time for you. Stress might come later; for now, just enjoy your first year of college!

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life.

46957
college students waiting in a long line in the hallway
StableDiffusion

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Keep Reading...Show less
a man and a woman sitting on the beach in front of the sunset

Whether you met your new love interest online, through mutual friends, or another way entirely, you'll definitely want to know what you're getting into. I mean, really, what's the point in entering a relationship with someone if you don't know whether or not you're compatible on a very basic level?

Consider these 21 questions to ask in the talking stage when getting to know that new guy or girl you just started talking to:

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

Challah vs. Easter Bread: A Delicious Dilemma

Is there really such a difference in Challah bread or Easter Bread?

29776
loaves of challah and easter bread stacked up aside each other, an abundance of food in baskets
StableDiffusion

Ever since I could remember, it was a treat to receive Easter Bread made by my grandmother. We would only have it once a year and the wait was excruciating. Now that my grandmother has gotten older, she has stopped baking a lot of her recipes that require a lot of hand usage--her traditional Italian baking means no machines. So for the past few years, I have missed enjoying my Easter Bread.

Keep Reading...Show less
Adulting

Unlocking Lake People's Secrets: 15 Must-Knows!

There's no other place you'd rather be in the summer.

953958
Group of joyful friends sitting in a boat
Haley Harvey

The people that spend their summers at the lake are a unique group of people.

Whether you grew up going to the lake, have only recently started going, or have only been once or twice, you know it takes a certain kind of person to be a lake person. To the long-time lake people, the lake holds a special place in your heart, no matter how dirty the water may look.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

Top 10 Reasons My School Rocks!

Why I Chose a Small School Over a Big University.

167675
man in black long sleeve shirt and black pants walking on white concrete pathway

I was asked so many times why I wanted to go to a small school when a big university is so much better. Don't get me wrong, I'm sure a big university is great but I absolutely love going to a small school. I know that I miss out on big sporting events and having people actually know where it is. I can't even count how many times I've been asked where it is and I know they won't know so I just say "somewhere in the middle of Wisconsin." But, I get to know most people at my school and I know my professors very well. Not to mention, being able to walk to the other side of campus in 5 minutes at a casual walking pace. I am so happy I made the decision to go to school where I did. I love my school and these are just a few reasons why.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments