Now that summer is coming to an end it's time to tackle packing up for college. Whether this is your fourth time, or your first, it never seems to get any easier. Here are some tips to prevent you from going absolutely insane when you wait until the night before to get going.
1. DON'T wait until the night before.
Pack up some shoes that you don't normally wear and a few t-shirts starting a couple weeks in advance. Every little bit counts. When crunch time comes it'll make you feel better to have gotten started.
2. DON'T pack your whole room.
As tempting as it is to bring all six of your coffee mugs and those shorts that you haven't worn since sophomore year of high school, don't do it. It takes up extra space and will just stress you out when it's in your tiny dorm, unused.
3. DO make lists.
Make lots and lots of lists. Make a list for every pair of jeans you need to bring, all of the snacks you need to buy, and and also every last minute toiletry that you think of throughout the days leading up. Once you accomplish something on the list, cross is out. You'll see that you're making progress. Don't be scared to add to the bottom of your list either, you gotta do what you gotta do.
4. DON'T wait until 10 minutes after you're supposed to be on the road to pack your car.
Have everything tightly packed and ready to go in a corner of your house by the door. Pack the car the night before, or early the next morning to avoid sudden "oh no this doesn't all fit" episodes.
5. DO let your parents help you.
Believe it or not your mom pretty much knows what count bed sheets to get, as well as how to fit an extreme amount of clothes into your suitcase. This will take some of the pressure off of you so your mind will be a little more free to efficiently finish up.
6. DON'T bring all of your clothes at once.
Not only should you only bring clothes that you've worn in the past year, but limit yourself to one season. For now only bring your summer clothes. Unless you are going to school in a different climate, or won't be able to make it home until thanksgiving, shorts and tank tops are good for now.
Tip: I would definitely allow yourself to maybe bring at least one sweatshirt or sweater. You never know if you'll be in a cold auditorium type room during orientation, or if your roommate will keep your dorm chilly. Don't be under prepared, just cautious of what is being thrown in your bag.
Hopefully these simple tips will help you alleviate some stress leading up to the big move. Good luck this semester and remember to stay organized!
