Back To School: Moving Day Tips And Checklist

Getting ready for back to school? Make sure to check out this week's featured blog on back to school moving day tips and preparation checklists.

As summer draws to a close, you'll need to start thinking about back-to-school preparations. 

However, as much as you've enjoyed your time off away from campus, it can be a daunting prospect thinking about getting organized on your return. 

Here are some tips ahead of moving day, as well as a checklist to ensure you've got everything you need.

Top Tips For Moving Day

Whether you're getting ready to move out of town for school, or maybe you're just moving across town into a dorm with your friends, be sure to set aside some time to get yourself ready for September!

Purchase School Supplies 

No matter your degree subject, you'll likely have a required reading and equipment list for the semester. 

It's a good idea to go out and buy as much of this as you can before you get back to class. This way, you'll be as prepared as possible for the semester ahead. 

Many professors stipulate that they want you to have gotten to grips with the reading material before you start class, so make sure you buy your books early so you can have them ready before you arrive back on campus.

It's not just books you'll need; you should also consider what materials and equipment you'll be required to bring. 

Below is a checklist to give you a guide of what you'll need to buy. 

• Textbooks/journals
• Binders/folders
• Laptop
• Stationary (pens, pencils, highlighters, erasers)
• A planner or agenda

Of course, this is just a rough guide, and depending on your course, you'll need to supplement with your specific course requirements. 

If you study maths, for example, you'll likely need a whole lot more stationary (calculators, compasses, rulers etc.). 

Check with your college or university for a detailed guide of what you should bring for your first week. 

Wardrobe 

This might seem a little obvious, but giving your wardrobe a little thought can help the semester go more smoothly. 

For instance, if you're embarking on any internships, you'll want to have some professional clothing at the ready. If you're invited to a formal occasion on campus, you'll want to have something a little fancier at your disposal. 

Equally, you'll need to plan around the season and the climate of your school. 

If you're in California, with its warmer climate, then you don't have to worry about heavy-duty boots and thick coats. 

However, if you're in Maine, these things are a must for the colder months ahead.

If you play for a sports team, you should also check what kit you'll need to get hold of for training and competing. 

Here's a quick checklist to use as a guide:

• Clothes for class
• Professional/business clothing
• Sports clothing
• Casual clothing
• Formal attire
• Comfy campus shoes

Workspace Equipment

Even if you plan on doing most of your studying at the library, you'll need to set up a dorm workspace. 

This will keep your work organized as well as give you somewhere for those late-night study sessions. 

To create an effective work environment, you'll probably need to get some furniture. 

A desk and office chair is the most basic set-up. 

You might also want to get other stuff for extra comforts, like a lamp, bookcase, or filing cabinet. 

If you're short on space, you'll need to get smaller furniture items, even foldable items that can easily be stored away when you're not using them.

Here's a quick list of essential workspace items:

• Desk and Comfortable Chair
• Lamp
• Filing cabinets
• Bookcase
• White Board
• Calendar

Think About Transportation

Even if you're living on campus, you'll still need to think about how you're going to get around. 

When it comes to getting to class, going on foot or a bike is healthy and cheap.

As for getting out around town, bringing your car might seem like the easiest option. But it can get expensive quickly, and for some, driving isn't an option. 

So make sure to check out the public transport services around campus and assess whether they're a good option for you. 

Checklist:

• Campus shuttle timetable 
• Local bus timetable 
• Bicycle/scooter/skateboard
• Parking permit (if you bring your car)

Making The Most Of Your Summer

College or university are all-around great experiences, but they can also be full-on stressful at times. 

For this reason, it's a great idea to unwind and enjoy your vacation as much as possible while it lasts. 

You'll be grateful for the experiences once you're back stuck at your desk studying. 

However, as well as fun and relaxation, this time off from study can be an excellent opportunity to get some other stuff done. 

If you want to get ahead financially for the coming semester, you could also look into getting a summer job. 

This looks good on your CV, and the extra money will be a real help once you're back at college.

If you're keen to make yourself as employable as possible, you could also check out internship and work experience opportunities. 

Here are some other things you can do while you're away from school for the summer:

• Refresh your resume 
• Check out jobs and internship opportunities
• Take the time to travel
• Visit friends and family

Getting Back To School

There you have it, a comprehensive list of things to start buying and packing ahead of the start of the next school year. 

Ensure you check out your university website to double-check exactly what you'll need for your specific course!

And, in the meantime, spend as much time with friends and family as you can, get out on day trips, travel and have fun!