Packing for College

For the fifth time we are sending a child off to college, each one has been a bit different but we have learned that less is the best idea, the oldest one currently in college will have a different list this year as he will be living off campus for the first time.

Here is the packing list we have :

Sheets for x-long twin - they pack 2 sets and the boys might have never used the second set but it was there.

Blankets and Pillows- they take the ones from their beds.

Dishes- water bottle, coffee cup, bowl, spoon and fork. My daughter is a coffee drinker so we will be sending her to school with a coffee maker.

Fridge- we have sent the kids with a small fridge, they haven't needed microwaves as they had access to them in common areas.

Bathroom supplies- I do two towels and a basket with the shower items they need.

Laundry- their basket from their rooms at home and I do buy the laundry pods as it's easier then carrying a bottle to the laundry.

Medical- a small tote with things like cough drops, pain reliever, Kleenex, band aids, first aid cream, items found in a household first aid kit. I have gotten more then one call from a college kids asking what to take for a nasty cold.

School Supplies- I send enough for them to start the year so a few folders, pencil, pens, etc. Not a lot because unlike high school you will for the most part get to pick if you like a binder, or a folder. If they like wooden pencils don't forget a pencil sharpener.

Odds and ends - a good umbrella we have had good luck with this one Gustbuster Umbrella after going though a few other brands.  Desk lamp, computer, cell phone and for one son that didn't have much storage a small bookcase. A folding camp chair can also be handy. Printer depends, one son needed one until he got a job at the library and then he printed there. Another doesn't have much to print off and had a school printer in the study area of his dorm that he used. Other odd things packed this year a hammock, two pet rats, and a turtle.

Clothing-  hangers for the closet and clothes that they like, packing for college is a great time to clean out the closet at home.

If they find after a few weeks that they need something there is always Amazon or the next time they come home for a visit.

Last but not least the priciest thing textbooks. 

College is a time of change for everyone and it is a great time to focus on new beginnings for all. I like to remind myself that this what I have been working toward for 18 years to help them grow from young children into young adults.