For the majority of college graduates in the United States, not all will immediately lock down gainful employment. In fact, many will return home to crash with Mom and Dad for a short period of time while they walk the fine line between total adulthood and still having their laundry washed for them. If you and your recent college graduate find him/herself in this situation, fear not: here are a few tips to make moving their essentials a seamless transition.
First and foremost, a sturdy set of luggage is important; one large, one medium, one small suitcase. You will be surprised exactly how much (if not all) clothes and shoes will fit into one of these. If your child doesn’t have to worry about a weight limit, then don’t. When they start packing, pack smart; don’t just throw every piece of clothing in one randomly. The last thing they want is to have to search through all of their suitcases for the one pair of jeans that of course weren’t with the others.
Plastic totes are honestly a lifesaver, especially if you are crazy weird about everything being in its rightful and organized place. Hefty makes smaller, flatter totes that are perfect for packing shoes, towels, or office supplies. Even better, they slide quite nicely into your car or under your bed for prime storage space. Save the huge, cumbersome totes for the big stuff, like dishes, electronics, etc.
If their car has the “dry cleaning hooks” in the backseat, invest in a clothes hanging bar, which can be found at your local Walmart or Auto Zone for about $15. This little tool really comes in handy when it comes to all hanging clothes (this is a special shoutout to your daughters with bursting closets). From closet to car, they really won’t have to worry about stuffing their hang up clothes into a garment bag or folding them up in a suitcase.
The rule of thumb is this: don’t make moving too hard on yourself. Pack things that go together together, find some lightweight storage containers that are easy to move from the house to the car and back, and you’ll be shocked at how quick and painless moving can be. Save the furniture and electronics for the professionals (or your husband).