So, you’ve secured a private room at your chosen BYU-Idaho apartment. Now, what are you going to put in it? 

One of the nice things about having your own room is that you have freedom to arrange and decorate as you want. You can pretty much arrange things how you would like, as long as you don’t damage the space, giving you so much more personalization and independence. 

The purpose of this article is to help you make decisions on what to pack for a living arrangement like this and to help you get settled in your apartment overall.

College Packing Decisions

When packing for college, you make decisions about what to bring and what to leave at home. Ideally, you want to pack the essentials but avoid overpacking. 

Here are some suggestions:

Pack Seasonally

Start by packing seasonally. This increases the utility of the few items you do take with you to college. Getting this right prevents things like coats and scarves from taking up space in your luggage for summer semesters. 

Label Boxes For Easy Unpacking

As you pack for your apartment, it’s good practice to label your boxes. This lets you put them in the right rooms when you arrive instead of spending time lugging them from one part of your space to another. 

Customize

Finally, take things that let you customize your space. Pack items that speak to the person you are and can motivate you during your college studies.

Packing for Solo Apartment Spaces

So, what items do you actually need to pack for a private room? As a general rule, prioritize personalization and comfort. If you have a space that’s yours for future semesters, you want to make the most of it. 

Here’s a rundown: 

Bedding

Start with various bedding items. These will keep you comfortable at night and support the sleep you need to maximize your studies. 

At a minimum, here are items to bring: 

  • Twin XL sheets (2 sets)
  • Comforter or duvet
  • Pillows (2–3)
  • Mattress topper

The mattress topper is particularly important if you want to keep the mattress clean and remain comfortable. It provides an extra layer of coziness. 

Storage

You also want to think about storage, depending on how much of your own stuff you’re planning to bring. Think under-bed storage bins, drawer organizers, closet hangers, hooks or adhesive strips for hanging items, and desk organizers. You want to ensure you have all your bases covered. 

Other Items and Extras

Lastly, you want to think about the miscellaneous items you might want for the main space. These could include things like throw blankets, desk lamps, white noise machines, and fans. 

Personal touches are also a nice addition. You could bring your favorite plant pot, posters, photos, décor items, scent diffusers, and rug. 

College Apartment Packing Checklists

In this section, simple apartment packing checklists are provided for rooms in your new apartment. 

Before you start, think about what items will be for your individual use and what will be shared. Consider how many roommates will be living in the apartment and the layout of shared spaces.

You should also ask what the apartment already provides. Hillcrest provides an online list of what is provided for residents. Study what’s included and then think about what else you might need to bring. 

If you can work with your roommates prior to move-in, that’s also a good idea. Coordinating with others improves packing and generally and can make life easier as you work to arrange for all bases to be covered in locations like the kitchen. 

Following are checklists of what to pack for your BYU-I-approved housing:

Bathroom

  • Shower caddy: You'll need something for all your toiletries, including soap, shampoo, conditioner, and so on.
  • Towels: Consider bringing two bath towels, two hand towels, and two washcloths.
  • Toiletries: Remember to bring the basics, like a toothbrush, toothpaste, and shampoo. Don’t forget to bring accessories like razors, sponges, and anything else you might use at home. 
  • Toilet paper and tissues: You may want to bring some to make sure these are available while you are moving in and first getting settled. Also, consider keeping extra packs under the bathroom sink.
  • Cleaning supplies: Good basics include a multi-surface spray, plenty of wipes, and a toilet brush.

Kitchen, Laundry, and Cleaning

  • Microwave-safe dishes: Pack several suitable plates and bowls for quickly reheating meals. 
  • Utensils and other items: Pack forks, spoons, and knives, as well as items such as a can opener and spatulas.
  • Dish soap and sponge: Have these on hand so that you are not caught without them later.
  • Laundry basket or hamper: These containers are handy to keep dirty clothes together and out of the way. 
  • Detergent and dryer sheets: Keep these in your apartment storage or in a laundry area. 
  • Stain remover: This is a little item that can matter a lot. Spills can and do happen. 
  • Trash bags: It is an inconvenience to not have these ready as you move in and start living in your apartment.

Avoid Overpacking

Along with the suggested items to bring for your private room and apartment, there are items that may be best left at home. Reducing the amount of items you bring helps ease the loading and unloading aspect of moving, can aid in you making the most of your space, and is a way to prevent clutter. 

One way to avoid overpacking is by refraining from bringing excessive décor. You may want to select a few items to personalize the space, helping your apartment feel like home. 

Also, keep the amount of clothes and shoes to a manageable, reasonable level. 

Finally, you don’t need bulky furniture. Cut down on this where you can.

Private Room Housing at BYU-I

Hillcrest offers private rooms at BYU-I-approved housing, providing residents with individual spaces at a complex with many apartment amenities. We invite you to reach out concerning private room availability, to schedule a tour, and to apply for housing.