A Packing Guide for Student Movers

A Packing Guide for Student Movers

When most students hear “college,” they think of one thing: MOVING—moving to a new city, moving into a cramped dorm room, and making new friends all at once. For some, it’s the first taste of independence, and it can be both exhilarating and daunting.
The key to a successful college move is preparation. By following these simple tips, you can make sure your transition to college life is as smooth as possible.

Make a Packing List

This may seem like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many people try to wing it when packing cardboard boxes for college. Creating a packing list will help university students stay organised and ensure you don’t forget anything important.

Start by listing everything you’ll need for your new dorm room, including bedding, furniture, and décor items. Then, think about the things you’ll need for classes and everyday life, such as clothes, toiletries, and school supplies. You can even list items you want to bring for fun, such as photos and posters. Just make sure these non-essentials have their own boxes. You need to pack only the essentials first if you need to save space and are not familiar yet with what you’ll need when you first move in.

Pack Essentials When Moving to Your Student Accommodation

No matter how well you plan, there’s always a chance your luggage will get lost during your move. One of the best moving tips is to have a carry-on bag with everything you’ll need for the first few days of college to avoid being stranded in your new address without your essentials.

This should include a change of clothes, toiletries, medications, your ID and any important documents, and some cash. If possible, try to fit everything in a single backpack or small suitcase so you can easily carry it.

Invest in Space-Saving Items

If you’re moving into a small dorm room, you’ll need to get creative with your storage. Look for space-saving items to help you maximise your space, such as under-bed storage bins and over-the-door organisers.

You can also invest in multipurpose furniture, such as a futon that can be used as a couch during the day and a bed at night. And don’t forget about storage solutions for your clothes, such as vacuum-sealed bags and rolling racks. You can have everything you need in your new house without taking up too much space. Steer clear of heavier items like furniture and cabinets.

Label Everything

Once you start packing, losing track of what’s in each box can be easy. To make unpacking a breeze, label everything with your name and the box’s contents. You can even colour-code packing materials and use packing tape to add labels or markings on your moving boxes. You will also need garbage bags to line the large boxes and prevent them from getting wet when the moving company comes in to pick them up.

You can also colour-code your boxes by room, so you know where to put each one when you arrive at your new dorm. And if you’re organised, you can make a packing diagram to help you keep track of everything.

Moving is a little more challenging for international students, since their boxes need to be shipped from overseas. If it’s possible, try to bring only lighter items and just buy the things you can once you arrive at Uni. Bulky items are expensive to move from your home country, and fragile items might get damaged in long-distance travel.

Pack a First-Aid Kit

You never know when you’ll need a bandage or cold medicine, so it’s always a good idea to pack a small first-aid kit. This should include items like bandages, over-the-counter medications, and antiseptic wipes.

You can also pack any prescription medications you take and a copy of your insurance card in case you need to see a doctor while you’re away from home.

Packing Tips: Put Electronics in Bubble Wrap

In today’s world, it’s hard to imagine life without our electronic devices and electrical items. When packing for college, including all the essentials, such as your laptop, phone, and chargers.

You might also want to bring some entertainment devices, such as a TV or video game console. And don’t forget about any necessary accessories, such as extension cords and surge protectors.

Bring Along Some Home Comforts

Moving to a new place can be overwhelming, so bringing along some items that will make you feel at home is essential. This might include photos of your family and friends, your favourite pillow or blanket, or even a small plant for your dorm room.

Some everyday items can help ease the transition to college life and make your new dorm feel like home.

Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute

Packing for college is a big task, so starting early is essential and avoiding procrastination. Start making your list of what you need to fill a few weeks before your move-in date, and begin packing your belongings a few days in advance.

This will help ensure that you don’t forget anything important and give you time to relax and enjoy your last few days of summer before college begins.

Get Some Help When Packing Boxes

Moving can be a lot of work, so don’t hesitate to ask for help from your family and friends. They can assist you with packing, driving, and even unpacking once you arrive at your new dorm.

If you’re short on time, it would be best to hire removalists from a local company to do the heavy lifting for you. This can be costly, but it would save you time and effort. Removalists are well-versed in packing and moving, so you can be sure that your belongings will arrive safely at your new dorm.

Have a plan for moving day

On the day of your move, it’s crucial to have a plan and be organised. Make sure you know when you need to be at your new dorm and map out the best route to get there.

It’s also a good idea to pack a small bag with your essentials for the first few days, such as toiletries and a change of clothes. This will help you avoid digging through boxes when you first arrive.

Moving to college can be a big adjustment, but following these packing tips can make the process a little easier. With a bit of planning and some help from your friends, family, and the assistance of professional removalists, you’ll be all set for your big move.