Packing for NYU: The Essentials!

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.

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!