Smooth move: Student-tested packing tips for new Hoos

The excitement of move-in weekend at the University of Virginia can quickly turn overwhelming when you’re staring at a pile of stuff, wondering what will fit in your new dorm room. 

Before diving into specific recommendations, remember this piece of advice: less is more. If you don’t use an item weekly, leave it at home. Still on the fence about something? That’s your answer – don’t bring it. Dorm rooms offer minimal storage, and you will want every inch of space you can get. 

Since packing needs vary from student to student, UVA Today asked four experienced dorm dwellers for their recommendations on what to bring to Grounds and what to leave at home. 

What to bring: Air purifier, small coffeemaker

“(An air purifier) is essential for a dorm room,” she said. “Due to the lack of fresh air flow, dust collects a lot. The air purifier collects a lot of the excess dust and helps with sickness prevention.

“My Keurig helped me in my first year so much,” she added. “Whether it was morning coffee, tea or hot chocolate, I used it constantly. It saves so much time and money instead of buying coffee every day.”

Consider getting a single-serve pod-type coffee maker (1,200 watts or less are permitted in the dorm rooms, per Housing & Residence Life policy).

What not to bring: Your entire wardrobe from home

“It seems enticing to bring your entire closet from home, but you’ll quickly realize you’ll only wear the clothes you absolutely love and are comfortable in. Plus, you’ll collect lots of UVA merch while at school.”

What to bring: Shower caddy and shower shoes

“Since you need to carry all of your toiletries to and from the shower, having an easy way to transport them, along with shoes for hygiene, is essential,” Thorton said.

What not to bring: Brita Filter

“I grew up drinking city water and have no issues drinking straight from the tap, so I found it unnecessary and ended up not using it,” he said.

What to bring: Emergency bag of assorted medicine

“Make sure you have DayQuil, Tylenol, Advil, Tums, etc. … because chances are you’ll get sick at some point, and you won’t want to walk all the way to the Corner to get medication.”

What not to bring: Every Single T-shirt from home

“You will get so many free T-shirts in the first few months of school, and you won’t have extra room in your closet.” 

What to bring: A fan

“While the AC is effective, there’s nothing better than sitting in front of a fan after walking back from classes in August,” she said. “It can help to circulate air in the room and is great if you and your roommate have different temperature preferences.”

What not to bring: Workout equipment

“I brought workout equipment like resistance bands, ankle weights and a foam roller,” she said. “I never used them because I went to the Aquatic and Fitness Center instead. Use the resources available on Grounds and save room when packing.”