Dormify Team
Freshman Planning Guide: 1 Week Before Move In
If you’re counting down, you’ve only got one week left until college move in day! Packing for college should be your top concern this week. Start thinking about how you’re going to pack everything, both in your suitcases and in your car. You may be wondering what to pack for a college dorm—packing clothes for college is obvious, but don’t forget to think about the small details that might get overlooked, like DIY projects for your room. Thinking something along the lines of “What should I bring to college freshman year"? We’re here to help! Check out our college packing list for a college apartment or dorm to get started.
Meanwhile, here’s what’s on the must-do list for this week:
- Pack! And we mean actually pack. Don’t let those burning “How should I pack for college?” questions get in the way of ACTUALLY packing for college. Use that college packing list and then get your clothes and shoes into suitcases, wrap breakable things in bubble wrap, and make sure you’re using all of the space you have efficiently.
- DIY your heart out. You know those dorm room DIYs you’ve always wanted to do? Make it happen. Do some DIY decor projects that bring in the colors, patterns, and details of other items in your room, like your bedding and rugs. If your friends love crafting too, invite them over for a DIY party!
- Get shipping. If you’ll be going to school far enough away that you can’t drive, you may need to ship some of your stuff. Now’s the time to do that so that it arrives in time. Double, triple, quadruple check the address to make sure it’s going to the right place and is clearly labeled with your name.
- Buy your favorite school supplies. You may not be in elementary school anymore, but back-to-school shopping is still a must. School supplies like notebooks and binders can be overpriced at the university bookstore, so it’s not a bad idea to snag them closer to home. P.S. A cute planner is a must!
- Gather your toiletries. Think about the products you use on a typical day—face wash, makeup, hairspray, shampoo, and so on—and take note. Decide if you’d rather stock up before you leave, or buy the necessities after you move in.
- Share your new address. You’ve got a new home, so make sure to tell your friends and family how to get in touch … and maybe drop a little hint that care packages and letters are always welcome!
- Plan for the weather. Look up the typical weather in the town you’re moving to and pack accordingly. If you’re moving somewhere with weather that’s drastically different from where you live, you might need to get some seasonal weather-specific items, like a heavier coat or snow boots.
- Make a move-in kit. Something super helpful to add to your list when packing for college: A kit containing the handy essentials for your move-in day. You might include some of these:
- Power strips: Your dorm may not have enough outlets for all your gadgets, so these increase your options.
- Hanging kits: Pack one of these damage-free hanging hardware kits (for concrete and brick walls, or for plaster and drywall) to ensure you get your deposit back after you take down that amazing gallery wall.
- Damage-free hooks: Another must-have for preventing wall damage.
- Washi tape: Use it to frame wall art or as a decorative accent on a desk and shelves.