TOLEDO, OH (WTOL) - Packing for college is tough. While you can always run to the store for things you forget, the selection will most likely be picked over or gone.
It will also be frustrating to navigate through the crowds of students and parents who also forget essential items.
To save you both time and money, here are some tips to remember before heading off to college:
- Be prepared for the weather. You won’t want to walk to class soaking wet from the rain. Make sure to bring an umbrella, rain jacket, and rain boots. Otherwise you will end up buying an overpriced school logo one at the campus store. If you plan to go home for Thanksgiving, hold off on bringing most of your winter items because there will not be enough space.
- Staying organized is key. Bins, totes, and organizers can help you keep your things separated when you have limited space. More importantly, it will save you time when you can’t find your calculator fifteen minutes before the test.
- Think vertically not horizontally. You will most likely have a roommate to share your space with. Instead of spreading your things out, try to look for items that are narrow and tall. Also consider items that can stack on top of each other.
- Be prepared for public restrooms. Don’t forget to bring shower shoes (flip flops or sandals). Also, it’s important to remember a shower caddy to carry back and forth from your room to the bathroom. You won’t be able to leave any items in the bathroom (unless you want everyone else to use them).
- Plugs will be limited. If you have a laptop, cell phone, lamp, hair dryer, etc. you’re going to need some power. Bring a power strip to ensure both you and your roommate have enough plugs. This will be a lifesaver! It’s also a good idea to bring extension chords in case your bed is on the other side of the room.
- Parents, bring the tool kit. If you don’t end up using it for your child, you might need to help their roommate. There always seems to be something that needs to be adjusted, put together, or fixed.
- Minimize your risk of getting sick. Always try to keep hand sanitizer on you. A pack of wipes can always be useful to wipe down your desk or door handle. You will be in a tight space with many other people so it will be easy to catch something. Consider grabbing a pack of Emergen - C or vitamin c vitamins as well if you want to be cautious.
