A Packing Guide for Moving to University

1. A Packing Guide for Moving to University

2. Going to university is a big step for many young adults to take. However, moving to university can be stressful, especially the packing process. The stress of packing can be exacerbated by unawareness of how to pack properly.

3. Moreover, it’s important to know what to pack and how much you’ll need. Every university provides basic furniture and other items, so students don’t have to bring them themselves.

4. While keeping this in mind is ideal during the packing process, there are some specific things you should take and some you should leave behind. Below is a quick guide on how to pack and what to bring or leave when moving to university.

5. How to Pack Before you start to pack, get a list of all the items the university provides. This will help with organization, as well as ensure you only pack essential items. Once you have the list, start the packing process.

6. Packing is a process because it involves several steps. These steps include: • Creating a “to-do” list for guidance (when needed) • Obtaining packing materials, e.g. boxes, bubble wrap, tape, markers, etc.

7. Decluttering your room • Dividing your belongings into four categories: “donate,” “throw away,” “take” and “leave behind” • Throwing away and donating any items you don’t want

8. Organizing your belongings into manageable categories, such as electronics, kitchen supplies, hygiene products, etc. • Labelling the boxes accordingly

9. Packing all the things you’re taking and putting them in one, accessible area or corner of the room • Securing a truck or large vehicle for moving your belongings to university • Cleaning after your things are packed

10. While you’re packing take care not to overstuff the boxes, place bubble wrap around all fragile items and loosely wrap all electronics in anti-static materials. Additionally, make sure all your items are secure in their boxes.

11. What to Leave Behind Universities provide many of the essential supplies students will need daily. Therefore, there are certain things you can leave at home. Plus, dorm rooms are typically small, providing little storage and room for excess items.

12. The rooms are also fully furnished, so there’s no need to bring even the smallest piece of furniture. This may also be the case with McMaster student rentals, which are often furnished.

13. However, furniture isn’t the only thing you should leave behind. Although desirable, other items you definitely won’t need and shouldn’t bring, include: • A television • Gaming console

14. Printer • Kitchen appliances • Sporting equipment • Food • Any clothing and shoes you won’t need

15. Ideally, these things should be left behind if you’re moving into a dorm. But if you’re moving off campus or into one of the Hamilton apartment rentals feel free to bring them all with you.

16. What to Bring Although there are many things you should leave behind, there are also many others you should bring. Most importantly, you’ll need: • A small, basic first-aid kit • A laptop and tablet (if applicable)

17. Kitchen supplies, e.g. cutlery, a small number of bowls, plates, cups, cling wrap and/or foil, food storage bins and a pitcher, knives, kitchen shears, towels, dish storage bin and oven mitts • Clothing and shoes

18. Basic tools or small tool-kit, screwdrivers, thumbtacks, a flashlight, a small hammer, etc. • Extension cords, power strips and/or adapters • Removable wall hooks for possibly hanging decorations, towels or coats and hats

19. Bedding and pillows • Bathroom supplies, e.g. a hairdryer, anti-slip bath mat, flip flops, a few bathroom cleaning supplies, towels and collapsible laundry baskets • A few ‘must-have’ books

20. Decorative items to help personalize your room, including posters, photos and any personal trinkets or accessories • Hygiene products, e.g. soaps, shampoos and conditioners, toothpaste, toothbrushes, hairbrushes and combs, skincare and haircare products, etc.