Our last packing post focused on clothing and how best to approach planning and shopping for the fall. Today’s post provides a quick look at technology and consumables.

With 3 weeks + before most boarders arrive on campus, this is a good time buy a bundle of non-perishable toiletries and hard goods that you’ll need. The toiletries are easy, you buy what you prefer and use.

Your technology choices can take some time. Make sure you know which platform (Mac/Windows) your school prefers. Many work with both. But, some schools are wedded to one OS over the other and are therefore focused on supporting only one. Know your school’s position on the all important platform question.

Know which graphing calculator you’ll need for math class.

If you’re bringing a computer that you’ve had for while, make sure that it’s in good working order. Make sure that everything works.  Make sure that the machine has enough memory and check that your printer work. Ink cartridges are a great item to buy ahead of time and bring to school.

Toiletries
Bring enough razors, shampoo, tampons, soap, etc. to last until Christmas. The school store will have some, but it may not stock your favorites and getting into town to buy more will be more difficult than you think with a busy schedule.

Remember, if you’re flying to school, you will want to purchase these items at your destination to avoid taking too much luggage.

Graphing Calculator
TI-83 or TI-84 are most common models- ask your math department which is required. If you don’t have one, you can often find a used one on e-bay or amazon.

Computer
If you plan to upgrade or get one for the first time, ask the school which one- Mac or PC- is most easily supported. Nowadays, either platform is usually fine.