Lydia Pearson
August 20, 2024
Starting university is an exciting chapter filled with new experiences, independence, and the chance to meet new people. However, before you can settle into your new life, you need to tackle the challenge of moving and packing efficiently. Whether you're moving into a dorm or shared housing, these tips will help you pack smart and make your move as stress-free as possible.
Start by making a checklist of everything you need to pack. Break it down into categories like clothing, toiletries, electronics, study supplies, and kitchen essentials (if you're in self-catered accommodation). A checklist will help you stay organized and ensure you don't forget anything important.
Before packing, find out as much as you can about your new accommodation. How much storage space is available? Is there a communal kitchen or will you need your own appliances? Knowing these details will help you pack only what you need and avoid bringing unnecessary items.
Moving is the perfect time to declutter. Go through your belongings and decide what you really need. If you haven’t worn that jacket in a year, or you’re unsure about those old books, it’s time to donate or recycle them. The less you bring, the easier your move will be.
You won’t need your entire wardrobe right away. Pack clothes that are appropriate for the current season and leave the rest at home. You can always swap out clothes during holiday breaks, saving you space in your room.
Maximize your packing space with these techniques:
Label your boxes with both the contents and the room they’re destined for (e.g., "Clothes - Bedroom"). This will make unpacking easier and quicker, especially if your parents or friends are helping you move.
Keep a bag of essentials with you for the first night. Include toiletries, a change of clothes, important documents (like your university acceptance letter and ID), chargers, and any medication you might need. This will save you from rummaging through boxes after a long day of moving.
Put all important documents, such as your passport, student ID, accommodation contract, and bank details, in a secure folder. Keep this folder with you during the move to ensure it doesn’t get lost or misplaced.
If you’re moving into a shared kitchen, avoid bringing too many kitchen supplies. Coordinate with your roommates to see what each of you can bring, so you don’t end up with five toasters. A few basic items like a pot, pan, and a set of utensils should suffice.
Toiletries can be bulky and heavy, so bring only what you need for the first few weeks. You can easily replenish items like shampoo and toothpaste once you’ve settled in. Consider using travel-sized bottles to save space.
Bring only the electronics you need for studying and entertainment. A laptop, phone, and charger are essentials, but think twice about bringing bulky gaming systems or desktop computers unless you really need them.
While you might be tempted to buy new supplies when you arrive, it’s a good idea to bring some basics like notebooks, pens, and a planner. Having these on hand will help you stay organized from day one.
If you’re sharing a room or apartment, coordinate with your roommates to avoid duplicating items. For example, if one person is bringing a mini-fridge, the others can focus on bringing different essentials like a microwave or kettle.
Think about how you’re getting to university. If your going by car or even better still a van you can bring more items, but if you’re taking public transport you’ll need to pack lighter. Consider shipping some items ahead of time if you have limited luggage space.
Moving day can be chaotic, so plan ahead. Arrive early to beat the rush, especially if you’re moving into a dorm with limited parking. Have your essentials bag ready, so you can settle in quickly without having to unpack everything right away.
When you arrive, start by setting up your bed and unpacking your essentials. This will give you a sense of home right away. Then, move on to unpacking clothes and setting up your study area so you’re ready for the start of classes.
Finally, make sure to stay connected with family and friends during the move. A quick call or message to let them know you’ve arrived safely can ease any homesickness and help you feel supported as you settle into your new environment.
Moving to university is a big step, but with these packing tips, you can make the transition smoother and more enjoyable. Happy moving, and best of luck with your studies!
