Posted in Moving Preparation, Moving Tips&Tricks on September 2, 2022

Kate Holland

A true grunge and rock music fan born in Seattle, Kate has moved across the country and started writing about her experience.

Tips and Tricks That Will Make Moving to College Easy

Are you one of the lucky people moving to college across the country this fall? If so, congratulations! It’s an exciting time in your life. However, before you start packing up your room and hitting the open road, there are a few things you need to know.

Moving out of state for college will likely bring forth a feeling that is a mix of relocation anxiety and excitement. It can be stressful to think about all the changes that are coming your way, but with some relocation tips and tricks, you’ll make the transition much easier. Relocating to a new city alone can be tough, but following these simple guidelines will help ensure a smooth move. All you need is to organize properly, prepare a to-do list and have some good luck up your sleeves.

Before Moving to College, Create a Checklist

What could be more rewarding than crossing off the last item on your “relocating to another state” checklist of tasks? Finding the drive to pack might be challenging, especially when you’d rather be spending quality time with your friends. Making a list of your to-dos may keep you motivated and organized, especially if you include breaks and rewards. With some helpful hints, relocation hacks, and a list of the unique must-do things and must-haves, moving away for college will be a breeze. So, here’s how to move to college and keep your sanity in the process.

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Don’t Forget About Your Budget

Attending Uni is a time of new beginnings, independence, and self-discovery. But it’s also a time when your budget might feel a little tighter than usual. Between tuition, books, rent, and other expenses, it can be easy to forget about your living and moving budget. But don’t worry! There are plenty of ways to save money on your move to college. Here are a few tips:

Organize your move and everything that comes after. Make a list of everything you need to pack, and then figure out what you can live without. This will help you avoid overpacking and spending too much on moving supplies.
Shop around. Compare prices of long-distance moving services by each white glove moving company that was recommended to you and different storage units. Don’t forget to factor in discounts, coupons, and deals. Don’t choose the first relocation company you come across.
DIY when you can. If you’re able to do some of the work yourself, you’ll save money on costs. You can pay for packing services but instead of investing in an auto transport service, drive by yourself (especially if the college is not too far away).
Be patient. Don’t wait until the last minute to start packing or making arrangements for your move. The sooner you start, the more time you’ll have to compare prices and find the best deals.
Get creative. If you’re on a tight budget, get creative with your packing materials and supplies. Use old suitcases or cardboard boxes instead of buying new ones.

With a little planning and effort, you can save money on moving across the country for college. So don’t forget about your budget! These tips will help you keep your costs down and enjoy your new adventure.

A girl calculating rental costs and how much there is to pay

Be careful when you make a financial plan

Get To Know Moving Day Guidelines

The process will go more smoothly the more information you have in advance. Additionally to coronavirus-specific precautions, be sure to find out the tips for the move-in day, such as:

Dollies and rolling carts are provided by your school, or do you need to provide your own?
Where and how long can a car be parked until you unload all the packed books, clothes, and other belongings?
Do you have a set time slot or can you appear at any time?
Do you have to carry your belongings up the stairs or is there an elevator?

What Do You Need to Rent an Apartment – How to Submit a Perfect Application

If Possible, Reach Out to Your Roommate

Discuss timing and furniture needs with your roommate in the weeks leading up to the move-in day preparations. By deciding who will bring what, you can save money and space. Are both of you relocating within the same day? Dorm rooms aren’t enormous, so the fewer boxes and people there at once, the better. If possible, space out the hours when you each unload and unpack after the move.

A guy and a girl sitting on the floor eating pizza

Having a roommate can be beneficial in many ways

Find Out if the Room Is Already Furnished

Finding out if the room is already furnished and communicating with your roommate go hand in hand. Since you already have a microwave in your room, there’s no need to debate who is in charge of it. Basic pieces of furniture, including a desk, a dual bed, and a dresser, are typically already set up in dorm rooms. However, understanding that your room has a minifridge and neither overhead illumination nor desk lamps is helpful information that will save you from packing unnecessary furniture, buying things you don’t need, or spending your initial day in the dark.

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Make a List of Things You Need to Bring

Packing for college can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be! By following this simple packing list, you can be sure to have everything you need for your dorm room.

Pack some bedding: A comfy mattress is essential for a good night’s sleep. Don’t forget to pack sheets, a blanket, and a pillow.
Bring all the clothing you’ll need: Of course, you’ll need to pack clothes for every season. Be sure to mix and match items so you can create multiple outfits.
Bathroom items are a must: Don’t forget the basics like shampoo, conditioner, soap, and a toothbrush. You might also want to pack extras like shaving cream and a hair dryer.
Pack electronics: A laptop is a must for college life. Be sure to bring along chargers for all of your devices. You might also want to pack an extra power strip.
School supplies: From notebooks to textbooks, you’ll need plenty of supplies for classes. Don’t forget to pack a backpack or tote bag to carry everything in.
Food: Don’t forget to stock up on snacks and non-perishable food items. Ramen noodles will become your best friend!

By following these simple packing tips, you can be sure to have everything you need for your dorm room. With a good plan for the move and some preparation, college life can be a breeze!

If you need some additional advice on all things regarding dormitories, watch the fun video below.

Don’t Forget to Bring College Dorm Essentials

The best way to get ready for college move-in day, which is quickly approaching, is to be prepared. You will soon discover the move-in day customs and regulations that each school has in place. But certain things are common to everyone. So, whether you’re traveling with your entire family or on your own, there are several things that countless seasoned parents are aware of as necessary goods.

IKEA Storage Bags Are Very Useful

The key to a successful move-in is in these bags. These bags are compact, strong, and simple to pile in the car. They can be used as laundry bags, under-bed storage containers, or be folded and stored until you return home in the spring.

Folding Platform Cart With Four Wheels

If you want to get your belongings where they need to go without effort, a rolling cart or a dolly will prove to be of unparalleled help. This simple thing will make the move-in day at college go so much more smoothly.

Surge Protectors Are a Handy Thing

There are never enough electrical outlets in a dormitory, and many universities forbid the use of extension cables. However, if you invest in a good surge protector, you can have 12 additional outlets, 2 USB ports, and a 6-foot wire.

Bring a Fan With You

If you’re like most college students, you probably don’t even think about bringing a fan to your dorm room. But trust us, once you experience the heat of summer in your un-air-conditioned dorm, you’ll be glad you have one! A small fan can make a big difference in your comfort level, and it’s a lot cheaper to run than an air conditioner.

A Toolset Is Necessary

One of the most important things you can do when moving into a dorm room is to bring a toolset. This will come in handy for many different things, from hanging pictures to fixing a loose doorknob. If you don’t already have one, now is the time to invest in a small tool set. You’ll be glad you did when you need it!

First-Aid Kit Counts as a Must

A first-aid kit is an important item to have in your dorm room. It can come in handy for minor cuts and scrapes, as well as more serious injuries. A basic first-aid kit should include band-aids, antibiotic ointment, gauze pads, adhesive tape, scissors, tweezers, disposable gloves, pain relievers, and antihistamines. You may also want to add additional items, depending on your needs. For example, if you have allergies, you may want to include an EpiPen. If you have diabetes, you may need to include extra supplies, such as glucose tablets or insulin.

Bring a Door Stopper to Secure Yourself

One of the simplest and most effective ways to secure your dormitory door is to bring a door stopper with you. Door stoppers are relatively small and inexpensive, but they can be a lifesaver in an emergency. If you feel like your door isn’t secure enough, or if you just want an extra layer of protection, this is a great option.

Pile Up Enough Water Bottles and Some Snacks

One of the best things you can do for yourself when living in a dorm room is to make sure you have plenty of water and snacks on hand. Staying hydrated and keeping your energy up are both essential for being able to focus and get through your day.

Water bottles are an easy way to make sure you’re always drinking enough water, and they’re also great for taking with you on the go. If you have a small fridge in your room, it’s also a good idea to keep some snacks like fruit or yogurt on hand so you can grab something quick when you need it.

Command Strips and Hooks Are Popular Among Students

Hooks and strips are a great way to bring some personality and style to your dorm room. These simple decoration items can be used to hold pictures and posters or even just add some color to your walls. Many students choose to use command strips or hooks in order to avoid damaging their walls with nails or tape. Plus, these items are usually very inexpensive, making them a great option for budget-minded students.

In the End, You Shouldn’t Move In Without Cleaning Supplies

One of the most important things you can do when moving into a dormitory is to bring your own cleaning supplies. This way, you can keep your space clean and tidy without having to rely on your roommates or the school’s cleaning staff.

Hire Long-Distance Movers to Help You With Heavier Items

It’s no secret that college can be a tough adjustment. Not only are you dealing with a new environment and new people, but you’re also likely carrying a lot more stuff than you did in high school. If you’re looking for a little help with the heavy lifting, consider hiring white glove movers to help you get your belongings to college.

While it may seem like a lot of money to spend on white glove moving services, it’s worth considering if you have a lot of heavy furniture or appliances that you need to move. College dorms are notoriously small, so there’s often not a lot of room for larger items. If you’re trying to figure out how to move everything yourself, you may find that it’s simply too difficult (and stressful!) to do on your own.

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