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Packing for College

10 Must Haves

By Char Torkelson

Unless your teen has a private room, most rooms (and roommates) require you store your extra items in storage containers that slide easily under the bed or into a closet area. Check the size and appropriate height so the container will actually go under the bed. With more than one person in a room, space becomes an important commodity. Also remember a storage carrier for personal toiletries such as shampoo, soap and toothbrush that can easily be toted to the bathroom. Although your teen may pack many things in boxes or large bags, a suitcase or duffle is great for traveling back and forth from school to home during vacation. Here's a list of important miscellaneous items: umbrella, batteries, bug spray, tanning lotion, shaver, important papers driver's license, Social Security card, financial aid paperwork. Don't forget musical instruments, sheet music, Bible, favorite book, playing cards, photos from home, hand-held vacuum, cell phone, savings/checking account information, favorite music, sunglasses, address book, stamps and envelopes, nail clippers, mug, utensils and paper towels.

Checking off a list as you pack may seem too organized, but it saves extra trips, calls home for items to send and spending money unnecessarily. Another time- and money-saving tip is to look carefully at the size of the typical dorm room on tours of the school before move-in day. This may also give you an idea of what to bring and what not to bring. Too much may be just as difficult as too little. And remember, packing for your teen's second year will be much easier!