It’s almost that time of the year… Time to move out of our residence halls and move back home for the summer. This process is nearly as stressful and sad as moving in for the first time, the only difference being you’re moving away from all your friends instead of moving away from your family.

1. Start early.

Up to two weeks before, begin packing away some things you won’t use or need between then and move-out day.

2. Pitch anything you've never used.

While packing everything away, throw out things you don’t like, never wore/used, or don’t see yourself using in the future. The less stuff you have on move-out day, the better.

3. Get rid of your food.

Perishables and non-perishables alike. Eat it, give it to your friends, but make sure you get rid of it. It’ll take up space as you pack and if it’s perishable it’ll go bad quickly.

4. Try to send stuff home early.

If you live nearby or have a car on campus, try to get some stuff you don’t need home early. If your parents come visit, make sure they take some unnecessary items home with them as well.

5. Use vacuum bags.

I cannot stress enough how wonderful vacuum bags are. They take a pile of clothes on top of a bed and make it small enough to fit into a backpack. (And if you don’t have a vacuum, ask around or ask the front desk of your residence hall if you can rent one out.)

6. Pack essentials last!

You don’t want to be left without a phone charger the night before you move out and have a four hour car ride home.

When it comes to going back home, most residence halls probably have a policy as to how long you can stay once finals are over. Hopefully with these tips you can get out quick, saving both you and your parents the stress of move out day.