Okay, deep breath. The last final is done, and the urge to just chuck everything into a heap and set it on fire is real. I’ve been there. But listen—taking one afternoon to be smart about this will save you so much money, stress, and tears later. Mostly tears when you find your favorite mug in pieces.

Let’s get into it. This isn’t corporate advice. This is from me, someone who has hauled more futons and mini-fridges than I can count.

Step 1: The “Why Do I Even Have This?” Pile

Do this NOW. Before you even think about boxes. Go through every drawer, every corner of your closet. Be ruthless. Here’s how to decide:

• Haven’t used it since Halloween? Probably donate it. That shirt seemed like a good idea in September. It wasn’t.
• Broken, gross, or that mystery Tupperware? Trash. Just let it go.
• Textbooks? Check online prices. If you can sell it back for more than $20, do it right now. The rest? Honestly, you won’t open them again. Sell ’em or donate ’em.

The goal is to only pay to store stuff you genuinely need next year. You don’t need to pay $50 a month to store a $10 Target lamp.

Step 2: Beg, Borrow, but Don’t Steal Your Supplies

Forget flimsy boxes. You need the good stuff.

• Boxes: Hit up your local grocery or liquor store. Just ask nicely in the morning—they have tons of sturdy boxes they’re just going to break down. Liquor boxes are especially strong and often have dividers, perfect for glasses or mugs.
• Tape: Get the heavy-duty stuff. That flimsy transparent tape is a lie. It will fail you.
• Marker: Steal a permanent marker from your roommate. I won’t tell.
• Ziploc Bags: You’ll see. They’re magic.

The Real Way to Pack (That No One Tells You)

Heavy Stuff in Small Boxes:

Books are back-breakers. Put them in a small box. Trust me. Your future self, carrying it up three flights of stairs, will thank you.

Wrap Your Breakables:

You don’t need fancy bubble wrap. Use your towels, your t-shirts, your sweatpants. Wrap your plates and bowls in them. It saves space and protects your stuff. Two birds, one stone.

Take Pictures BEFORE you disassemble:

That bookshelf from IKEA? Snap a pic of how it’s put together. Take a close-up of how the cords are plugged into your TV. This is a lifesaver in August.

THE MOST IMPORTANT TIP:

Put all screws, bolts, and tiny parts in a Ziploc bag. TAPE THAT BAG to the item it belongs to. Tape the leg bolts to the bottom of the desk. Tape the mounting bracket to the back of the TV. You will lose them if you don’t. This is not a debate.

Where to Put It All (The Big Question)

Your uncle’s damp basement is free, but it’s also a prime spot for mold, mice, and misery. That smell never comes out of your mattress.

This is the part where I tell you what we do. We see students every single year who tried the “free” option and ended up with ruined stuff. It’s heartbreaking.

Our storage spots are dry, secure, and—this is the key part—climate-controlled. That means no crazy heat warping your records or melting your candles. No humidity, making your clothes smell like a locker room. It’s just a clean, safe, boring room where your stuff sits exactly how you left it. We have small units that are perfect for a dorm room’s worth of stuff and won’t break your budget. It’s peace of mind, so you can actually enjoy your summer without that nagging worry.

Label Like You’re Getting Paid For It

Don’t just write “Jessica’s Stuff.” You will forget. Write what’s in it and, crucially, what ROOM it’s for.

• “KITCHEN – Plates & Coffee Maker”
• “BEDROOM – Winter Clothes & Photos”
• “DESK – School Supplies & Textbooks”

When you’re exhausted and moving back in, you can tell your friends to just put the boxes in the right room. It cuts unpacking time in half.

Last Pro Move:

Pack a separate “Day One” box. Put in a roll of toilet paper, a towel, your phone charger, a change of clothes, your shower caddy, and some snacks. Tape a big “OPEN THIS ONE FIRST” sign on it. When you get to your new place, exhausted and hungry, this box will feel like a gift from the gods.

You got this. Make a playlist, order a pizza, and just power through it. Then go start your summer. Your stuff will be safe and sound, waiting for you.