Illustrations by Larsha Flowers
Every semester, students and parents pack themselves, along with suitcases and boxes, into cars ahead of college move-in days. This usually bittersweet semester ritual, however, becomes a little more bitter when students realize they have neglected to pack these five basic items.
1. Extension cords
This realization usually comes when it’s time to charge phones at night. Without long changer cables, students may depend on extension cords to actively use personal devices while they are charging.
That first night in a college dorm or apartment without an extension cord can be frustrating.
2. Power banks
College campuses have so many activities for students, especially at the start of the semester.
Between adding new friends on socials and snapping pics to send to the fam, students find their phone batteries draining rather quickly. That is when the regret of not bringing a power bank sets in.
3. Handheld vacuums
Vacuums are often taken for granted when they are sitting in pantries, coat closets or garages. On the flip side, however, they are heavily missed when dust and crumbs start accumulating.
With Houston being allergy central, having at least a handheld vacuum helps to keep the upholstery from triggering endless sneezes. It also keeps room furniture clean from the remnants of late-night study and snack sessions.
4. Umbrellas
While umbrellas are on the list of regrets for students all across the nation, they rank especially high for those coming to Houston.
Houston’s weather is a lot of things and unpredictable is definitely one. A sturdy umbrella seems so insignificant until students experience their first downpour in the city.
5. Can and bottle openers
Last but not least, can and bottle openers also make the list of random things that students regret not bringing to campus. This may sound trivial or like a drinker’s problem, but many non-perishable food items require an opener.
Since fall semester begins in the peak of hurricane season in Houston, having a can or bottle opener can make life easier, especially when the electricity is compromised.
And while these may seem like items students can easily run to the store and get, nothing beats being able to have them handy like they usually are at mom’s house. So, if you or someone you care for is getting ready for college move-in, make sure these items make it onto the packing list.
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