Get ready to pack up and say goodbye to your hall!

Once exams are over and summer is just around the corner, it’s time to face the final challenge of the academic year: moving out of your hall🧳. Whether you’re heading home, travelling, or preparing for a new chapter, here are some handy tips to help make your move-out as smooth and stress-free as possible.

📦 Pack Smart

• Try to begin packing one to two weeks before your check-out date to avoid a last-minute panic.
• Before you pack, have a clear-out. Not everything needs to make the journey home. Sort your stuff into three categories: keep, donate, and bin. Be ruthless – those leaflets or expired snacks don’t need to follow you!
• Label your boxes clearly using masking tape or sticky notes. Write what’s inside and where it’s going (e.g. utensils – home). This will save loads of time when unpacking.
• Make the most of what you already have: parcel boxes, suitcases, and tote bags, which all make great packing containers.
• You might also want to use vacuum bags to pack duvets or bulky items. You can find these at shops like Primark, IKEA, Argos, and more.

👕 Donate Well

• Don’t just throw things away — donate them! Most halls provide British Heart Foundation Re-Love sacks where you can drop off unwanted clothes, accessories, shoes, books, and even small electronics.

• If a Re-Love sack isn’t available, simply take your items to a nearby British Heart Foundation shop. Before donating, check their website to see which items they can and can’t accept.

• Got spare kitchenware or extra bits and bobs? Consider donating to other local charities, such as the British Red Cross, or post in your hall’s WhatsApp groups — there’s always someone who’ll be glad to take them off your hands.

📦 Store Easy

• Not taking everything home? No worries! Companies like Big Yellow, Access Self Storage, Safestore and Lovespace offer convenient storage solutions for students. You can easily get a quote online and choose the one that suits your needs best.

• 📦 Top Tip: Lovespace offers £10 off for students, and they’ll even collect and deliver your boxes – ideal for international students heading home for the summer.

Saying goodbye to your hall may feel bittersweet 😢, but with a little planning, you can wrap up the year on a smooth note. Happy packing and enjoy your well-earned summer! 🌞