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How (Not) to Pack

Definitely wait until 20 minutes before leaving--any earlier is just ridiculous.

Lianne Anderson

Dec 12, 2016

Emory University

150

With finals coming to an end soon for most college students, it is time to pack up for a month or so of being home. It's always a little strange to be living out of a suitcase in your own house, but either way, it is time to start packing. Since I am definitely the worst packer, I decided it would be a fantastic idea to make a list of my pro-tips for those curious about how I do it.

1. Do not start packing until the night before (or the morning of)

You want to start packing in advance so you're not rushed the day of? Silly you--half the fun of packing is that rush of fear when you realize you haven't packed half the stuff you need but you leave in 10 minutes.

2. Definitely pack way more than you think you will need (just in case)

If you're questioning if you should put it in your bag, just throw it in there. Your bag may be 500 pounds but at least you will have the extra 20 t-shirts that you packed just in case the first 20 aren't an option.

3. Make a list so you feel productive even if you don't start packing

Sometimes I make a list a week or so in advance of packing and then I tell my mom I've already started packing because in theory I did in my mind.

4. Blasting music while packing makes it more fun

This is assuming you have finally begun the process.

5. If you don't know where to start, take a break

6. Packing can be a team effort

Before I left for college, I still hadn't packed so my friends came over and basically packed my life for me.

7. Packing is like a game

With only 20 minutes, how much can I get to fit into this small suitcase, arrange it like a puzzle so it can still close, and still manage to overpack while still forgetting at least a few necessities?

8. Don't forget to pack food

You're going to forget something necessary (most likely) but don't let that necessity be food.

9. If you have over-packed, make other people carry your bags as far as they're willing

10. On the trip back, pack even more stuff so it will be even harder to pack for home than the first time around

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This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.

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