The Packing Hack That Will Save You So Much Precious Dorm Closet Space

I cannot fathom how I did three college move-ins without this product in my life. These moving bags are seriously a game-changer! They’re designed to fold up for easy storage, but truly, they fit so much when they’re unfolded. The straps make the bags far easier to haul than boxes and suitcases — in fact, they’re so easy to carry that I was able to have one on each shoulder and roll a suitcase at the same time (bringing only suitcases to college could never).

Bringing a plastic bin along to college is a good idea because you can pack it to the absolute brim for move-in, then use it as under-the-bed storage for the rest of the semester. These bins are a more friendly storage option than suitcases because you can easily see what's inside, instead of digging through a suitcase to find what you need. I suggest using these for the items you only use occasionally, like extra linens, laundry supplies, or tools.

Sure, you could collapse your hamper and put it into a suitcase with no problem, but why not take advantage of the extra space a hamper provides? You’re already bringing it, so let it live up to its full potential. Cloth hampers are great for soft, squishable objects like throw blankets and pillows. I’m also a big fan of putting vacuum-sealed bags into hampers for moving because it makes them easy to carry, and I find they do better in a hamper than a suitcase because of their awkward shape.

Speaking of compression bags ... space bags of any kind are a must if you want to save some serious room while packing. These particular bags are especially helpful because they don’t require a vacuum to get an airtight fit. Simply roll out the excess air through the bottom of the bag and you're good to go!

Boxes are a great idea for your sturdier items that may need to remain upright or on their side. If you want to go the box route, set aside some dish towels or T-shirts to use as wrapping and box fillers. The beauty of the boxes is that you can break them down to store easily and use them again later — or just recycle ’em!

Fabric storage cubes are a smart option in case your dorm has limited drawer space. When moving, you can use them to store snacks or any other objects you may need to keep handy while traveling and unpacking. Similar to the laundry hamper, this is something you'll probably be bringing to college already, so instead of packing it away, put it to good use.

If you like the idea of an open-top storage cube but want something a little sturdier, consider these colorful, stackable storage baskets. Once you’re done using them to transport all your miscellaneous items, you can keep using them to store the same items, unlike bringing a suitcase to college.

This duffle bag is expandable, rolls on detachable wheels, and comes in the cutest colors. That’s a win-win-win. With a zipper closure, this bag is well-equipped to hold all your stuff during the move, plus it makes a great multi-purpose bag to use throughout your semesters. This bag can easily roll your laundry between your dorm and the laundry room, carry your groceries, and collapse to a smaller bag for day trips or errands.

Utilizing under-bed storage is one of the smartest ways to maximize space in your dorm, and these fabric boxes are the best way to do it. They have two handles and a hinged lid, plus the little bit of structure makes them stackable (but they do collapse). Consider them if you’re attending college in a place that experiences multiple seasons and you want to swap out seasonal clothes, or you just want to hide your cleaning supplies.