An image of WSP

The TL;DR
Here's my advice on:
  • How to make moving and packing for NYU feel fun and less stressful!
  • Being mindful about what you pack. (Thinking of bringing 5 winter coats? Think again!)
  • Tips on staying organized. (LISTS! LISTS! LISTS!)
  • Pitfalls to avoid. (Procrastination? Don't know her!)

It’s August! That means (if you’re like many incoming first years) it’s almost time to move into your NYU residence hall! Between packing for NYU, meeting roommates, and transitioning into college life, there’s a lot to consider.

The first step is always packing, and honestly it is so tricky to navigate the 15,000 things you feel like you need to bring with you to college. It can get overwhelming pretty quickly. Having a game-plan before you start and knowing exactly what you need to bring can save you time, money, and make you feel less stressed.

Anjana and fellow ambassadors pose with an NYU sign wearing purple gear.

The Do's of Packing

1. Create a thoughtful packing list!

Before you dive into the packing process, take a moment to create a thoughtful and comprehensive list of essentials. While it’s tempting to buy everything you see, remember that your room will be a shared space with limited storage. So, be strategic about what you bring. Some essentials that I highly recommend bringing from home include, medicines (think Tylenol, NyQuil, etc…), ID’s (an often overlooked item), room decor (bringing pieces that remind you of home can ease the transition to college), toiletries and personal items (especially for the first few nights when you’re still unpacking), and electronics.

2. Organize like a pro!

Organizing is the key to a stress-free packing experience. Start by creating a packing checklist that covers all your needs. Categorize and label your items, especially if you’re bringing stuff in boxes. Packing by category allows you to check off items more efficiently and prevents overpacking. When it comes to space optimization, be mindful of your room’s limited area. Avoid bringing bulky items that you probably won’t use much, and instead, focus on versatile pieces that serve multiple purposes.

3. Packing Techniques

You have all your things ready to go, what next? Packing for NYU smartly can save you time and space. Invest in packing cubes to neatly organize your clothes and roll them up to maximize storage. For fragile items, use bubble wrap to ensure they arrive intact. Utilize suitcases and under-the-bed storage spaces to keep your room clutter-free, as you won’t need to find a place to store all your bags. And remember, heavy items go at the bottom to keep your belongings balanced during transportation. Lastly, use any empty spaces in your boxes or suitcases as fillers to optimize space and prevent items from shifting during the journey.

Two students hold hot beverages and smile.
With my roommate on one of our outings to Maman!

The Don'ts of Packing!

1. Say No to Overpacking

As a chronic over-packer I will say, you don’t need 15 winter coats (it breaks my heart to admit it). Stick to your well-thought-out packing list, and if you find you need something later, many essential items like bedding, towels, and bulkier room decor can easily be purchased at stores near campus.

2. Beat Procrastination!

Moving to college is a significant life event, and you might find yourself procrastinating on your packing for NYU in order to slow the process down. However, packing early and sorting everything out will save you from last-minute panic and ensure you meet any weight guidelines if you’re flying. So, start early and take your time organizing your belongings. You got this!

3. Avoid Bringing Duplicates

Before you start packing, communicate with your roommates to ensure you’re not bringing multiples of the same items. This open communication will save space and prevent unnecessary clutter. Talking about your room and how you want your space to look and feel is also a great way to get the conversation started with your future roommates!

Moving into college is an exciting milestone, and mastering the art of packing can make this transition smoother and stress-free. By following the do’s and don’ts of packing, you can ensure that you bring everything you need while avoiding unnecessary clutter and potential headaches.

Plan ahead, pack smartly, and don’t be afraid to seek advice from others who have gone through the college move-in experience. And lastly, have fun!

I am currently a senior in the Class of 2025 at the Tandon School of Engineering studying Business and Technology Management concentrating in Strategy, and I also have a minor in Bioethics. I am originally from India but I grew up in Dubai, so I’ve kind of been all over the place. When I’m not working for Admissions Ambassadors or studying you can find me at the closest boba shop or bookstore. And I spend the rest of my free time being an avid Taylor Swift fan.