As you begin packing for college, you may find yourself staring at your closet and wondering, “How many clothes should I bring?” It’s a valid question because you want to be prepared for all occasions without overpacking. Below is a comprehensive guide on what to pack, along with some tips to keep in mind.
The Everyday Essentials
Start by considering what you’ll wear daily. Depending on your style and preferences, this might include jeans, shorts, t-shirts, sweaters, or athleisure wear. A good rule of thumb is to pack enough casual clothes for two weeks. That way, even if you don’t do laundry every week, you’ll have enough clean clothes to get you through.
Dress for the Seasons
Consider the weather at your college location. If you’re going to a school with four distinct seasons, you’ll need a variety of clothes to accommodate the changing weather. Bring along a selection of both lightweight and warm clothes, but don’t forget that you can swap out items when you visit home during breaks.
Dressing Up
You’ll likely need some dressier clothes for events like presentations, job interviews, or formal occasions. For men, this might include a suit, a couple of dress shirts, a pair of dress pants, and a tie or two. For women, a dress, a skirt, or a couple of blouses could come in handy. One or two professional outfits should suffice.
Workout Clothes
If you plan on hitting the gym, participating in intramural sports, or just like the comfort of workout clothes, be sure to pack several sets. Three to five outfits are typically enough, but adjust based on how often you plan to do laundry.
Sleepwear and Loungewear
For lounging in your room or late-night study sessions, comfortable pajamas or lounge clothes are essential. Three to four sets of sleepwear should be enough.
Shoes
Bring a variety of shoes for different occasions – casual shoes for everyday use, athletic shoes for workouts or long walks across campus, and dress shoes for formal occasions. Depending on the weather, you might also need boots for winter or sandals for the warmer months.
Undergarments
Pack enough underwear and socks to last you at least two weeks. For women, remember to bring enough bras, preferably of different types to suit different outfits.
Accessories and Outerwear
Don’t forget essential accessories like belts, ties, or jewelry that pairs well with multiple outfits. If you’re headed to a colder climate, pack warm items like gloves, a hat, and a heavy coat.
Less is More
While it’s tempting to bring your entire closet to college, remember that dorm room space is limited. It’s better to bring versatile pieces that you can mix and match for various occasions.
The Laundry Factor
Think about how often you plan to do laundry. If you don’t mind doing laundry weekly, you can get away with bringing fewer clothes. If you dislike laundry or will have limited access to machines, consider bringing a bit more.
Tips for Packing
When packing, roll your clothes instead of folding. Not only does this save space, but it also reduces wrinkles. Vacuum seal bags can be a lifesaver for bulkier items like winter coats or sweaters.
Deciding how many clothes to bring to college doesn’t have to be daunting. Focus on packing versatile pieces that you love and will wear frequently. Remember that you can always add to your college wardrobe by shopping at local stores, ordering online, or grabbing more clothes during a visit home. After all, college is a fresh start, and it’s the perfect time to curate a wardrobe that reflects your unique style.