Dorm Room Packing Tips

Published September 02, 2015

Are you off to university?

Well you’re not alone. It’s hard to believe the summer is wrapping up and the stores are bustling with back-to-school students once again.

Some of you will be leaving home and will set up your own home away from home in your dorm room or apartment. For many students this can be a daunting task, but don’t worry, with a little planning and organization the process should go very smoothly.

Here are some tips and tricks that may assist you in preparing for your big day.

First, always pack properly. This is important because it will help with the unpacking process on the other end. Use coloured duct tape on your boxes, carefully labelling what’s inside. Cardboard boxes are great because you can break them down easily once you’re done and place them in the recycling bin. We all know there is a very limited amount of space for storage in a dorm room.

Use chalkboard paint on your portable storage containers. Or purchase chalkboard labels at Michaels. This idea is great for large desk organizers as well as your bathroom articles. Over time if you decide to change the contents of the container just wipe the chalkboard clean and rewrite the label.

A shower caddy makes a great organizer. Use it for jewelry, pens and pencils, room keys and other small items that you need to access on a regular basis.

A plastic hanger fitted with inexpensive plastic shower rings makes a fantastic scarf holder. Simply purchase a package of plastic shower rings and clip them on to the clothes hanger. Insert one or two scarves into each shower ring and hang in your closet.

Another great item to have on hand is magnetic tape. This is great to apply to the inside of desk drawers and bathroom cupboards. This tape will hold bobby pins, barrettes, paper clips and other small items.

Don’t forget about bringing a small first aid kit. You can purchase these at local pharmacies. Keep it in your desk drawer.

Another idea is to label your phone and computer chargers. These are items that are always borrowed or lost so it’s a good idea to personalize them.

The Internet has many great websites that offer “ultimate dorm room packing lists.” These are wonderful for using before you go. It may be a good idea to find one and print it off as a final checklist.