Time to Pack Up for College.

• Position: UNIVERSITY LIFE

It is time to pack your bags, fly the nest, and make it on your own--at least until Thanksgiving so make sure that you have everything you will need for those crazy first months of college. Sock brand Heat Holders provides some suggestions.

For your room:

* Bedding, including a comforter, duvet, duvet cover, pillows, covers, sheets, and mattress protectors.

* An inflatable mattress and sleeping bag for guests.

* Any furniture you are providing yourself, such as beanbags, chairs, side/coffee tables, etc.

* Decorative items to make it feel like home, such as photos, posters, canvases, rugs, ornaments, string lights, and stuffed animals.

* Practical items, including alarm clock, wall organizer/whiteboard, folders, stationery, fan, mirror, safe, and trash can.

For your safety:

* First aid kit containing antiseptic cream, cleansing wipes, bandages, medical tape, etc. These can be purchased prestocked.

* Health insurance documents. Make sure these stay in a safe place, in case of emergency, and let your roommate(s) know where they are.

* Any other insurance documents you may have.

* Any prescribed medication you are taking, plus scripts and the contact details for the nearest pharmacy for refills.

For your appearance:

* Clothes--not all of them, of course. Pack according to the weather in the state where you will go to school. Start with your favorite, cannot-live-without pieces and add essentials.

* Fancy dress basics. There will be parties--and they will be themed, so try to pack something you can build on or improvise with.

* Hair products, including gels, mousses, serums, hairbrush, straighteners, dryer, and curling tongs--everything you need for a great night out.

* Jewelry--you will not need your family's entire vintage heirloom collection, just a few staple pieces to keep you looking nice and feeling comfortable.

For your hygiene:

* Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, washcloths...