WordofMany

student packing suitcase for college dorm room

College packing list

top 5 mistakes to avoid when packing for college

By Ava Harrison

Published: 19 May 2025

Packing for college? Exciting, right? But let’s be honest, it can also feel like trying to cram your entire life into a few boxes. I remember my own move-in day… I brought way too much stuff, including a panini press I used exactly twice. So, trust me, I get it! Let's talk about how to avoid those uh-oh moments and pack like a pro.

overstuffed suitcases college dorm room | Image: Supplied

Mistake #1: Packing Everything You Own

Okay, this is the big one. Resist the urge to bring every single item you own. Seriously. Dorm rooms are notorious for being tiny. Think studio apartment, but smaller. You’ll quickly realize that half of what you packed is just taking up precious space. Do you really need those five different pairs of boots? Probably not.

Solution: Edit, edit, edit! Be ruthless. Think about what you actually use daily or weekly. Focus on essentials first. Bring only what is important! Consider what you can buy when you get to college, and don't forget to communicate with your roommate to avoid duplicate items (two mini-fridges? No thanks!).

student overwhelmed by too many items in dorm room | Image: Supplied

Mistake #2: Forgetting the Essentials

On the flip side, it's easy to get so caught up in what not to bring that you forget the absolute must-haves. Imagine arriving at your dorm late at night, only to realize you forgot a pillow or a phone charger. Nightmare fuel, right? This actually happened to my roomate Sarah, she even for got toiletries. Lets just say it wasn't her best day.

Solution: Create a checklist of essential items well in advance. Think bedding, toiletries, basic medications, a first-aid kit, and of course, chargers for all your electronics. Trust me, a little planning goes a long way. If you forget something, don’t worry! Most campuses have stores nearby where you can grab necessities. But it’s better to be prepared.

checklist of essential items college packing | Image: Supplied

Mistake #3: Not Considering the Climate

This seems obvious, but it’s easy to overlook. What’s the weather like at your college? Bringing your entire winter wardrobe to sunny Southern California is probably not the best idea. Similarly, packing only shorts and t-shirts for a school in upstate New York during winter? You're going to be freezing all the time!

Solution: Research the typical weather conditions for the entire academic year. Pack clothes that are appropriate for each season, and don't forget essentials like rain gear, a warm coat, or a sun hat. Layers are your friend, they are so important! Also, consider investing in versatile pieces that can be worn in multiple seasons.

student freezing in dorm room unprepared for cold weather | Image: Supplied

Mistake #4: Ignoring Dorm Room Restrictions

Before you start packing, check your college’s dorm room rules. Many schools have restrictions on certain items, like space heaters, candles, or certain types of cooking appliances. You don't want to arrive on move-in day only to find out you can’t use that awesome new lava lamp you bought.

Solution: Visit your college’s website or contact the housing department to get a list of prohibited items. Follow the rules! It’ll save you from potential fines or having your stuff confiscated. It's all about a smooth move in!

dorm room rules and regulations college | Image: Supplied

Mistake #5: Waiting Until the Last Minute

Procrastination is the enemy of successful packing. Trust me on this one. Trying to throw everything together the night before move-in? Recipe for disaster. You’ll forget things, make poor decisions, and end up stressed out. Don't do that to yourself.

Solution: Start packing well in advance, even a few weeks before move-in day. Create a packing list, gather your supplies, and pack gradually. This will give you time to think through what you need, edit your choices, and avoid that last-minute panic. Take it easy, one step at a time.

stressed college student packing last minute | Image: Supplied

So, there you have it! Avoiding these common packing mistakes can make your college move-in day a whole lot smoother and less stressful. I hope it helps! Think of packing like a puzzle - each item has it's place, you just need to figure that out. Good luck and enjoy your first year!