Moving into college is a stressful time. Everyone is tense and not sure what to expect. Students often pack too much and bring things that create clutter or they forget something very important.

Students often stress over packing for college, and rightfully so. There are so many guides to moving in and must-haves that it’s hard to figure out what is actually necessary.

“I know I brought a lot of stuff I don’t need,” said Katelyn Pinkham, freshman in English. “If you use it on a daily basis, pack it. If not, leave it at home.”

Iowa State’s ‘What to Bring’ list is a great place to start as it is specific to campus. Go through it and pick the necessities, such as a toothbrush, bed sheets and laundry detergent. Your list should be practical; think about what you can’t live without.

“Be conscious that you have to take it all back,” said Paloma Mate-Kodjo, residence hall community adviser and sophomore in biology.

Overpacking can lead to future struggles. Everything that is packed needs to be transported to college and back home.

Students also accumulate more things while at college, meaning there’s more to pack for the ride home. If there are too many boxes or the dresser is overflowing, then take items with you each time you travel home or send them home with someone who visits.

The packing problem of forgetfulness that people experience can be an agitating hassle. Personal belongings are important too. Some students have journals or blankets they’re emotionally attached to. Jot down these objects in phone notes or on a post-it.

Students also forget helpful items that seem obvious.

“Bring hangers and cable cord for the TV,” said Trevor Kliever, residence hall community adviser and senior in interior design “You’d be surprised by how many people forget to bring them.”

It’s best to create your list and check off each item as you pack. Many families push off the packing process until a week or even a few days before move-in time. This makes for an even more taxing situation.

The sooner you make a list and double check it, the sooner you can begin to organize what you have. If the boxes, tubs and crates are ready to go the morning of, then the whole family can focus on the departure.