1. Get there early!!

I know that getting there early isn't the best idea for the people who don't like waking up early. But being there earlier rather than late is worth it. Get a cart or dolly to help with the heavy stuff. Make sure you know the parking areas ahead of time, too. Parking is only for a limited time due to unloading and the elevators are REALLY crowded! I had to get onto a waiting list to get a big cart.

2. DO NOT OVER-PACK

I know we all want to take as many cute decorations and clothes as we can to college. Trust me, YOU WON'T NEED IT. When I was packing, I only decided to bring the clothes that I always use (AKA laundry clothes). Why? Because if that piece of clothing is in your laundry, you probably wear it.

Moving in is hard if you don't have an organizer or plastic containers. They will be your best friends while moving in. I learned the hard way.

3. Shop the day of move-in, not before!

If you're wondering what to get and what you'll need or aren't sure about what to take, WAIT UNTIL YOU MOVE IN and get settled. Once you've settled in, you'll know what's missing or what you need. Don't waste money on what you can get later. Budget and get what's necessary. Don't waste money on decoration because you won't need a lot of it.

4. Cheap stuff!

I know it's hard to figure out where to buy your bedding and stuff. I went last minute shopping at Target, Marshalls, etc. BUT LET ME TELL YOU THAT COSTCO, TARGET, AND BJ'S ARE THE SPOTS TO GO.

1. DO NOT GO ALONE UNLESS YOU WANT TO CRY IN TARGET (LIKE I DID).

2. IT WILL TAKE MORE THAN 5 HOURS.

3. BE PATIENT.

5. LISTS

I will tell you one thing right now: MAKE A LIST OF IMPORTANT STUFF NOT TO FORGET! Make sure you make appointments at doctors and double-check that list of numbers for emergencies! Lists will be your best friend for move-in day! Once you're done unpacking, you write down the stuff you need to by so they don't slip your mind! (This way, you know what you need to get done, what prescriptions that need to be refilled or transferred, what mail you need to forward.) Lists, lists, lists! They will save your life. It's a good habit to pick up!