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My first semester at college was a time of learning. I had never lived away from home for more than a week and I had never lived long-term with non-family members, so I had quite a bit to get used to. I learned a lot from both my own practices and those of my roommates. I would like to give you a few tips on how to pack for college.

1.) Know your living situation. Will you have one roommate or three? Will you have a closet to yourself? How deep are the drawers in the college-issued dresser? What other "personal space" will you have (if any)? These are all things to consider before packing.

2.) Don't bring your whole wardrobe. Look at what you wear on a weekly basis. It's the same 5 tops and 2 pairs of pants, isn't it? Yeah, I thought so. The truth is, you have excess clothing. We all do. And, it's okay to bring a few items you won't wear all the time. But, packing so much that you encroach on your roommates' space is a big no-no. They have clothing too, you know!

3.) Plan your packing around your travel plans. Are you coming home for the winter months? Good, then you can pack fall and winter clothes only and then bring back spring and summer clothes upon returning.

4.) Don't bring useless items. One roommate I had brought a massive amount of "nick-nacks" for which she had no space. One of the items, I kid you not, was a glass hand sculpture that was eventually shoved in a drawer somewhere. A few personal decorative or sentimental items is one thing. But, anything that is simply going to take up space because you can't get over your pack-rat habits isn't acceptable. It is imperative that you are considerate of your roommates.

5.) Remember: Wal Marts are everywhere. Research where your college is located. If possible, visit ahead of time. Get to know the area a bit. Find a Wal Mart nearby. You can buy food, cleaning supplies and most anything that you don't already own (but need) there. Don't travel with it. Plus, if you buy some stuff after arriving, you'll have a better idea as to where you can put it.

With these 5 tips, I hope you will have an easier time packing. Trust someone who knows: you need less than you think. And, anything else...well, that's what Fed Ex is for!

Learn more about this author, Chelsea Clark.
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