Moving day is both exciting and overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time living away from home. Between packing up your life, figuring out what you actually need, and making your new space feel like home, it’s easy to feel a little lost. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Here are some practical tips to make your moving day a breeze.
1. Start Packing Early
Procrastination might be your best friend when it comes to revision and assignments, but not when it comes to moving. Start packing at least a few weeks in advance. Begin with items you won’t need immediately, like off-season clothes or extra bedding. This will give you plenty of time to organise and avoid the last-minute scramble.
2. Declutter Before You Pack
Take this opportunity to get rid of stuff you don’t need. Less clutter means less to pack and unpack. Plus, it’s a great excuse to donate or sell things you no longer use.
3. Label Your Boxes
Label each box with its contents and which room it’s going to in your new place. This will save you a lot of time when you’re trying to find your kettle after a long day of moving. You can even colour-code boxes by room for an extra level of organisation.
4. Pack an Essentials Bag
If you won’t arrive till late pack a bag with all the essentials you’ll need: toiletries, a change of clothes, a phone charger, snacks, and anything else you can’t live without. That way, you won’t have to dig through boxes when you’re exhausted after moving.
5. Plan Your Route
Whether you’re moving across town or to a new city, it’s worth planning your route. Check for any roadworks or traffic that could slow you down and if possible plan another route just in case.
6. Get Help
Moving is a big task, and you don’t have to do it alone. Ask friends or family for help, especially if you have large items to move. More hands are helpful when carrying all your belongings to your new room.
7. Inspect Your New Place
Before you start unpacking, do a quick inspection of your new accommodation. Check for any damages or issues and report them immediately. It’s important to get these sorted out before you settle in.
8. Make It Home
Once everything’s inside, start by setting up your bed and bathroom. These are the places where comfort is key, and getting them sorted first will make your new space feel like home right away. After that, take your time unpacking the rest. Add personal touches like photos or fairy lights to make the space truly yours.
9. Meet Your Neighbours
Moving day is a great opportunity to meet your neighbours or flatmates. Say hello, introduce yourself, and maybe even offer to help if they’re moving in too. Building a friendly relationship early on can make your living experience much more enjoyable.
10. Stay Calm and Enjoy the Experience
Moving can be stressful, but it’s also the start of an exciting new chapter. Take a deep breath, stay organised, and remember to enjoy the process. It’s all part of the adventure of student life!
Moving day doesn’t have to be daunting. With a bit of preparation, some help and the right mindset, you’ll be settled into your new student accommodation in no time. Good luck, and enjoy your new home from home!
If you are struggling with what to pack, here are 10 essential items you should take to uni.
