Toiletry bag? Check!
Laundry hamper? Check!
Toaster? Do I really need one?
Moving to college is exciting. The anticipation of starting fresh in a new place is thrilling. With classes, roommates, and adventures on the horizon, it can be easy to overlook the things you'll need day-to-day.
Whether you're coming to BYU-Idaho from another part of Idaho or traveling across the country (or world), it's easy to bring too much, or worse, forget something important. At Cedars, we've compiled this complete Rexburg, BYU-Idaho-specific college packing guide to help you stay organized as you begin this new adventure. Let's jump in!
Pack in Categories
Instead of thinking about individual items, the best way to pack is to organize by categories. Here are a few essential areas to keep in mind when packing for college:
- Bedroom essentials
- Bathroom supplies
- Kitchen basics
- Laundry items
- Cleaning supplies
- School supplies
- Electronics
- Clothing
Coordinate With Your Roommates Before You Move In
A classic rookie mistake, buying everything you may or may not need, isn't the way to go. At Cedars Housing, each apartment houses six students, but most apartments don't need six of everything. (Imagine trying to store six toasters, plungers, and vacuum cleaners in your shared apartment—definitely not ideal.)
A few weeks before move-in, start a group chat with your roommates and divide items you can anticipate sharing. This small effort will save everyone money, and it's a good way to connect with your roommates before the semester begins.
Items that can be shared include:
- Vacuum
- Broom and mop
- Swiffer
- Trash can
- Toaster
- Air fryer
- Blender
- Pots and pans
- Measuring cups
- Mixing bowls
- Cleaning supplies
- Iron and ironing board
- Tool kit
- Plunger
- Toilet scrubber
Pack for Rexburg's Weather
One of the biggest adjustments for many BYU-Idaho students is learning just how much the weather changes throughout the year. In Rexburg, we experience all four seasons. And it's likely you'll spend plenty of time walking between your apartment and campus.
Winter
If you're arriving for the Fall Semester, expect cold temperatures, snow, and icy sidewalks. And don't underestimate how important warm clothing becomes when you're walking to an 8:00 a.m. class.
We recommend bringing these winter essentials:
- A warm winter coat
- Waterproof boots with good traction
- Gloves or mittens
- A winter hat or beanie
- Thick socks
- Sweaters and hoodies for layering
- A scarf if you're sensitive to the cold
If you're bringing a car, don't forget an ice scraper and snow brush. And check out our winter driving guide, so that you can stay prepared for Rexburg's cold season.
Spring
Spring in Rexburg changes quickly. Some days feel like winter, while others are perfect for walking around campus.
Here are a few things to remember:
- A lightweight jacket
- Rain jacket
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sweatshirts or hoodies
- Umbrella
Summer
Students staying for the spring semester and summer session usually get to enjoy the best weather in Rexburg.
Embrace Rexburg's warm season and bring:
- Shorts
- T-shirts
- Athletic clothing
- Comfortable shoes
- Sunglasses
- A reusable water bottle
No matter the season, comfortable walking shoes are one of the best investments you can make.
Bring Clothes That Work for BYU-Idaho
Most students are already aware of BYU-Idaho's Honor Code, but it's worth thinking about your wardrobe and the university's clothing-specific expectations before packing everything into boxes.
Choose clothing that's comfortable, practical, and appropriate for campus life. Because university standards can change over time, it's always a good idea to review the current BYU-Idaho Dress and Grooming Standards before arriving on campus.
Don't Forget Workout Clothes
If you plan to use the BYU-Idaho Fitness Center, pack athletic clothing that complies with the university's current fitness center guidelines.
Athletic shoes, approved workout shirts, and appropriate athletic shorts or pants will help you get the most out of campus recreation without any surprises.
Church Clothes
Many students attend church every Sunday, so it's helpful to bring at least one church outfit.
Business Casual Clothing
You may also want one business casual outfit for:
- Job interviews
- Career fairs
- Presentations
- Devotionals
- Networking events
- Internships
You probably won't wear it every week, especially during your first semester, but you'll be glad you packed it.
Electronics You'll Be Glad You Packed
Your laptop is probably already on your packing list, but don't overlook the smaller electronics that make everyday life easier:
- Laptop and charger
- Phone charger and backup
- Portable battery pack
- Headphones
- Power strip
- Extension cord
- Flashlight
- Batteries
Kitchen Essentials You'll Actually Use
Even if you don't consider yourself much of a cook, you'll probably prepare more meals than you expect.
Some kitchen basics include:
- Plates and bowls
- Cups and water bottles
- Silverware
- Pots and pans
- Cooking utensils
- Cutting board
- Can opener
- Measuring cups
- Mixing bowls
- Oven mitts
- Food storage containers
- Dish soap
- Drying rack
- Trash bags
- Paper towels
If you enjoy baking, you may also want an electric mixer, baking sheets, or measuring spoons, but these are great items to coordinate with roommates before buying.
Cleaning Supplies You'll Appreciate Later
Not many people get excited about packing cleaning supplies. But future-you will appreciate having them on hand. Keeping your apartment clean becomes much easier when you already have the supplies you need.
Don't forget:
- Laundry detergent
- Laundry basket or hamper
- Broom
- Mop or Swiffer
- Multi-surface cleaner
- Glass cleaner
- Disinfecting wipes
- Magic Erasers
- Duster
- Toilet cleaner
- Toilet brush
- Hand soap
- Paper towels
The Small Things Students Always Forget
It's often the inexpensive little items that end up requiring a last-minute shopping trip. Double-check that you've packed:
- Command hooks
- Hangers
- Corkboard
- Desk lamp
- Zip-top bags
- Storage containers
- Earplugs
- Shower curtain
- Shower mat
- Flashlight
- Batteries
- First aid supplies
- Prescription medications
- Scissors
- Reusable grocery bags
These small items don't take up much space, but they can make your apartment much more comfortable during your first week.
Make Your Apartment Feel Like Home
College isn't just about having a place to sleep; it's where you'll study, relax, celebrate, and build friendships. Adding a few personal touches can help your apartment feel more like home from the start:
- Family photos
- A favorite blanket
- Decorative pillows
- A calendar or planner
- Small plants (if allowed)
- Wall décor that complies with apartment guidelines
- A corkboard for reminders and photos
A Few Final Move-In Tips
As move-in day gets closer, here are a few simple ways to make the transition smoother:
- Label every box with your name and the room it belongs in.
- Pack an overnight bag with toiletries, medications, chargers, and a change of clothes so you don't have to unpack everything on your first night.
- Keep important documents (your ID, lease information, and any school paperwork) in a folder that's easy to access.
- Charge your phone before arriving.
- Bring a few snacks and a reusable water bottle. Move-in days are busy, and it's easy to forget to eat while you're unpacking.
Most importantly, don't stress if you forget something. Almost every student realizes they left an item or two at home. That's a normal part of moving to college, and most things can be picked up at local stores after you arrive.
Ready for Move-In Day?
Packing for college is about more than checking boxes; it's about setting yourself up for a successful semester. With a little planning and a packing list you can trust, you'll be ready to settle into your new apartment and focus on what really matters: starting your next chapter.
If you're preparing to move into Cedars Housing, don't forget to download our printable Cedars Housing Packing Checklist before move-in day. It's a simple way to stay organized and make sure nothing gets left behind.
And if you're still looking for BYU-Idaho-approved housing, we'd love to welcome you to The Cedars community.
