Freshman Planning Guide: Last Days Before Move In

Did anyone else feel like the summer flew by in an instant? College move-in day is just around the corner. Now’s the time to bring back that packing list you created at the beginning of the summer. You want to make sure you have everything you want and need on day one—and beyond!

First things first: How early should you move into your dorm? That depends. Check your college’s website or contact the residential life office to make sure you know the nitty-gritty details for your school, but generally freshman move in day is around three to four days before the first day of classes. 

A few days before your college move in day, check these to-dos off your list: 

• Set aside anything you’ll need (or you think you’ll need) for orientation. There’s nothing worse than waking up and realizing that important things are still in a box you haven’t unpacked.
• Look over your packing list. Make sure you have all the dorm essentials covered—plus the fun stuff that’ll make your new room feel like yours, too.
• Make sure all of your stuff fits. Whether you’re taking your car or need to fit your life into suitcases and boxes, you don’t want to be surprised on the morning of college move-in day. Check, then double check! 
• Buy extra hangers. You’ll need them. Trust us on this one. 
• Print out any pictures for your dorm room. Choose a stylish photo display or set of cute frames to showcase pics of your family, friends, pets or snaps from your epic summer to give you a little piece of home at school!
• Make a bucket list of all the things you want to do over the next four years. Include things that you’ve always wanted to do, plus things that are specific to your college. The best part? You can keep updating it as you think of new ideas!
• Say goodbye—or just see you later! Get together with all of your friends for one last hang before you all go off to your new schools. Make sure you get in all the hugs before you part ways.

Even if you’ve spent time away from your parents, shared a room with someone, stayed up 'til sunrise writing a paper, or accidentally let six hours slip away while talking to a friend, college is unlike anything you’ve ever experienced. It’s a time where you’ll learn as much about yourself (even in the first few days!) as you’ve ever learned in your entire life. You’ll laugh, cry, dance, scream—and you’ll probably surprise yourself, too. But there’s no need to stress about what's ahead—we’re here to help you get ready for the best years of your life!

Still have questions? Check out Dormify’s College Dorm + Apartment Checklist to make sure you have everything you need for move in, and follow us on Instagram and TikTok for more helpful tips and advice.