Prepare for the Big Move to College in California: What to Pack and How to Bring it There
The move to college can come in many forms. Some California college students move in with extended family near the school while others move into a dorm full of other young students. Some move across town while others move across the country, or even across ‘the pond!’ No matter the specifics, relocating to attend college is an exciting and emotional step for both parent and student. Preparing well for the physical move to college can alleviate some unnecessary stress from the other demands of getting oneself to college.
For most college students, your living space will be smaller and provide less storage space than you expect, so think minimally. You can always buy things once you arrive. Additionally, if you are flying, you could save quite a bit of money by packing within the limits of your airline ticket and buying needed items once you arrive. Whether you purchase or pack the following items, consider the list below as a good place to start. Additionally, you may need to see the space and furniture/items provided in your housing before making a trip to the store. To round out the list, think of the communal items that you may share in your home (hair dryer, hamper, drying rack) that you cannot go without and plan to purchase your own.
What to Pack
Essentials:
• Bedding and towels (2 sets)
Storage/décor:
• Special hangers for belts, scarves, pants, skirts, ties, etc.
• Hanging closet organizers/shelves
• Command strips and hooks for hanging*
*Many dorms do not allow holes in the walls.
Laundry:
• Detergent
• Hamper
• Drying rack
Bathroom:
• Shower caddy
• Shower shoes
• Hair dryer, straightener, etc.
First-aid:
• Band-aids
• Thermometer
• Advil/Tylenol
• Cold/flu medicine
Important documents (originals or copies):
• Birth certificate
• Social Security card
• Passport
Other:
• Electric kettle
• Water-filtering pitcher
• Earplugs and/or an eye mask
• Desk fan
• Desk lamp
• Mini tool kit
• Extension cords and power strips
• Duct tape
Essentials for your hobbies/passions, such as:
• Sketch pad/art supplies
• Frisbee
• Running gear
• Baking recipes
• Anything else that helps you relieve stress!
Packing & Shipping Methods
Now that you have completed your list, how are you going to transport the items? You have your choice of:
Cardboard boxes (which collapse nicely upon arrival)
Plastic bins (which can help organize your space, but can also unnecessarily take up space when not in use)
Suitcases (which usually have wheels for easy transport and protect their cargo nicely, but also can be bulky and in the way when not in use)
Find the best solution for your needs, which will depend on if you’re flying or driving.
Tips To Save Space
While some sites will advise you to separate and organize your items for easy unpack, you can save a lot of space by using your clothes to wrap and protect your fragile items during transport. Again, choose the solution that best fits your needs and circumstances. Remember to balance and evenly distribute the weight. You do not want to carry a large box full of books, unless you want to wear a back brace to your first day of class. Use smaller containers for heavy items (books) and larger containers for light items (bedding and clothing).
Loading Your Car
Lastly, how can you most efficiently load the car (if applicable)? Place the bigger and heavier items in first. Fill the spaces around the bigger items with your smaller items. Be sure no items will shift during the drive, and be sure to load the items in a way that will maintain necessary visibility during your drive.
Learning What Matters
College is an opportunity for learning and growth. Let that opportunity begin with the journey there as you learn what are life’s essentials and how to care for them as you relocate. These lessons will help you far beyond the next four years.
As always, Camelot Moving & Storage, based in Valencia, California, is ready to help you through this exciting journey!