First off, moving to your first college dorm is a big step in your life. Take a minute and be proud, okay? Good. Now that we’ve got that out of the way, let’s get down to business. As you and your family prep for this major transition, the key here is to stay organized.
Let me say that again…
Organization is everything.
This will make the move a lot smoother and less stressful which is really important since more likely than not, emotions will be running high. So, whether you’re a freshman or a seasoned pro, these tips will help you get settled in and ready for your new life as a college student.
Now, without further adieu, here are 8 tips you won’t want to forget:
1. Pack Less Than You Think…Way Less
Trust me, your dorm room is not just a relative dimension in space. It won’t magically expand to fit all your stuff. And chances are, you’re going to be sharing that tiny, boxy room with another human being. Who also has stuff.
Bring only the essentials - nothing more, nothing less. If you’re living close to home then take advantage of that. Keep any items that don’t fit in the “can’t live without” category at home for you to use on the weekends.
Things like toiletries, clothes, bedding, mini fridge (yes, this is an essential item one cannot survive college life without), lamp, shoes, any “desert island” products you can think of, and so on.
The extra large throw pillow that takes up half the bed? That can probably stay at home.
Your future self will thank you (and me) when you’re not buried underneath a mountain of unused items.
Pro tip: If you’re looking to really double down, I’ve got a little secret for you…
Ship your stuff ahead of time.
This will save you so much time and put you way ahead of the game. Plus, you’ll probably save yourself a few tiffs with your folks.
Companies like Juujbox can take the hassle out of moving day by shipping your belongings directly to your dorm.
Believe me, it'll feel less like a drama packed episode of reality TV and more like a smooth transition into your new home.
Skip the chaos, traffic, and elbow-jabbing crowds. Your boxes can be waiting for you, neatly stacked and ready to be unpacked, while you stroll in with just your essentials.
2. Make Good Choices - Furniture Wise
College isn’t typically known for being a haven of wise decisions but rest assured, this one will pay off in many ways! Here it goes…
Don’t haul large, clunky furniture into your dorm room and try to make it fit into a teeny tiny space. It won’t work and your roommate will probably hate you. Dorms come with the basics: bed, desk, and questionable carpet. Stick to small, multi-functional furniture.
Remember, the less you bring, the less you have to take with you when you move out or drag up the stairs when the elevator inevitably breaks.
3. Wheel Wagons Are Your New Best Friend
Some schools have moving carts, some don’t. If yours does, then there will likely be a long line. Skip it and take a foldable wheel wagon with you instead. You can buy one from Amazon, Target or any other major retailer.
They’re handy, easy to use, will save you loads of time, and better yet, it’s like having a mini moving truck that fits in your trunk.
Pro tip: Laundry baskets aren’t just for dirty clothes. They make excellent carriers for your random knick knacks. Plus, they’re easy to stack and carry. Convenience is what it’s all about.
4. Laundry and Shower Must-Haves
Remember when I talked about “desert island products” earlier? Yeah, well, consider a shower caddy to be one of those things. Lugging shampoo, conditioner, soap, and your dignity back and forth is much easier with one.
And before I forget, unless you enjoy the smell of week-old gym socks, do your laundry before the big moving day. You’ve got enough to worry about without a laundry crisis on your hands.
5. Manners Matter
Let’s be honest, bunking with strangers isn't ideal. So, get the awkwardness out of the way and if you can, introduce yourself before move-in day. Chat about the important stuff like quiet hours, study habits, and who gets the top bunk.
Don’t be afraid to speak up and lay down some boundaries. What are some of your non-negotiables?
Take some time to think about it and write them down. But remember, it’s their room too. Mutual respect goes a long way in maintaining harmony.
6. Organized Packing
Earlier I said organizing is everything and now that we’ve come full circle, we can talk about why and how.
The day of moving will be chaos. Guaranteed. Make no mistake, if you’re not as organized as humanly possible, you will regret it. Divide and conquer: categorize your belongings and pack similar items together.
That way, unpacking will be a breeze and you’ll avoid the dreaded “where did I put my phone charger panic?” panic.
Invest in some home organizers if you can. They make a huge difference and take up very little space. When everything has a place, you’ll start to feel more relaxed and more at home. I promise.
7. Get To Know Your New Home
This might seem like an extra step but it’s one worth taking. Before you start unloading your stuff in your dorm, take a reconnaissance mission around your residence hall. Find the laundry room, cafeteria, your new go-to coffee hang out, and study areas with a decent vibe.
Don’t be the freshman that’s wandering around like a lost puppy on day one.
8. Plan Your Goodbyes
Last but not least, this tip might be the hardest one. Saying goodbye to your family is gut wrenching but better when you’re in the privacy of your own home. Not the dorm.
Though it might sound a bit mechanical, consider scheduling a heartfelt goodbye with the fam prior to the move-in chaos.
Tears are optional but highly probable.
The Wrap Up
Moving into a dorm doesn’t have to be as stressful as it normally is. With a little planning and a lot of preparation you’ll be well on your way to enjoying life as a college student. Remember, this is an exciting time and being organized can help you make the most of it.
Good luck!
