Whether you’re a local or international student you’ll need to build up your packing finesse and the task will be even more challenging especially for the latter. If you’re a fresher or starting your postgraduate degree after a long break from university you’re going to need to be even more strategic. Let’s take a look at some efficient packing shortcuts:

Roll up your clothing

Simple but often triumphed by its lazier cousin, the stacking technique. Not only does this maximise space but it also minimises wrinkles. Wrap each article of clothing into a bundle, keeping smaller items like underwear and t-shirts in the central layer while larger ones like sweaters and blazers on the outside.

The power of vacuum

Ever heard of vacuum bags? Well, if you haven’t these are your new lifesavers! They are widely available in your local DIY or household store at rather affordable prices (I’ve managed to find them at home and in the UK). Most of us already have a vacuum cleaner or hoover as they say it here so plug one in and watch satisfyingly as your puffy sweaters shrink. Take my word for it when I say that it can buy you around double your existing space!

Don’t wait for space, make space!

Make use of the large unused spaces in items like shoes where you can slip your socks as they would take up a lot of space if they were folded and organised as a large pile. Small electronic items such as phone chargers and thumb drives or any medication that you will need to bring along can be put into the pockets of your clothes.

Another way to free up room in your baggage is to wear your heaviest and bulkiest clothing items which are likely to be your coat and boots. This way you’ll stay nice and warm throughout the flight and you can keep your inner layers light to not overheat yourself. It’s also great if you’re arriving in September which marks the start of autumn as the weather starts to become a bit breezier.

You can’t bring everything

Let’s face it, as much as we want to this is a rather impossible task, so remember to only pack what you really need. For example, just bring travel-sized versions of the current set of toiletries you are using and you can get the rest in Boots or Superdrug on your arrival. If you go on trips often and have previously harnessed the use of luggage organisers then we’re on the same page. They prevent leakage and poking from sharp objects, are lightweight, more sustainable than plastic bags, and save us time from having to scavenge through large piles of items. Need I say more?

You may also think that bringing your bed sheets and duvet covers will save you from having to fork out extra resources. However, it can truly be a hassle to bring it all the way over only to have to bring it back home again when your course finishes. Plus, there’s always an option to donate them once they’re no longer needed. In fact, there are many cheap bedding suppliers around the UK which I will touch upon in a future blog – so look out for that!