Shopping and Packing Tips
What to Get and How to Make It Fit
Does shopping and packing to go away to college feel like an overwhelming task? It's a good idea to start early and be as organized as possible.
Be a Savvy Shopper
Make a budget and stick to it—and keep in mind that not everything you take to college needs to be new. You may already have many of the things that you'll need. Coupons, warehouse clubs, and frequent-buyer cards can help you stretch your buying power. Discount houses or consignment shops can also be bargain goldmines. Try these places first and then fill in as needed. Older brothers and sisters, or friends, may be able to pass along some of the necessary items as well.
What Do You Have? What Do You Need?
Before you start shopping, take an honest inventory of what you have. Separate out the nice-to-haves from the essential items—if you still need them, you can retrieve them during one of your homecoming breaks. If you've still got more than you can manage during your trip, separate out some of the nonessentials and arrange to have them shipped to you after your arrival.
Getting Your Stuff to the Dorm
If you're flying to school, not driving, you'll need to think about how to get all of your stuff there. There are a few options to consider. You can shop at home, and ship all of the things you will need to school. Airlines may also let you pay extra to air freight your packages. That can be an expensive option, so compare prices before making a decision. You may also want to do your shopping once you get to school. This might be easier if you have a way of getting all your things back to the dorm. It can be hard juggling all of your shopping bags on public transportation.
More Packing Advice
Here are a few more tips to help you with your planning:
- Shop early—it minimizes stress and promotes family harmony. You don't want to spend your last few weeks at home arguing with Mom and Dad about what you're planning to take with you.
- Don't forget the things that will make your dorm room feel like home—photographs of family and friends, important mementos, or anything else that will make your new room your own space.
- Don't bring a full four-season wardrobe. Remember that most dorm room closets are fairly small. You'll be able to retrieve extra stuff from home during breaks.
- Don't overestimate how often you'll be doing laundry—21 pairs of socks may seem like a lot, but three weeks fly by when you're busy settling into college life.
- Be realistic about your lifestyle. If you never iron and your idea of getting dressed up is changing from torn jeans to khakis, then you won't want to fill up your limited closet space with an ironing board you won't use or dress clothes you're not going to wear.
- Check with roommates to avoid duplication—space is tight (so are electric outlets, generally) so divvy up the large items.
- Duffle bags are great—they can be stored under a mattress when not in use. (Just don't forget they're there!)
