What to Pack for Boarding School

With your child’s excitement building for the big move, packing can become one of the most enjoyable parts of preparing for boarding school. Each child and school will have their own needs, but there are several things every child should have to aid their integration into boarding school. If you’re in any doubt about what to include when packing, get in touch with the school and ask if there is anything, in particular, your child will need.

Grab a pen and paper and jot down each one of the following for your shopping list:
 

1. Clothes and Hangers 

It may seem obvious, but there are some things to consider when it comes to packing up your child’s wardrobe. Depending on the upcoming season, pack appropriate clothing to match all potential weather conditions. If you’re not able to travel to and from the school that often, plan ahead and prepare for all eventualities. 

Don’t forget to include your child’s uniform. Get in touch with the school to make sure you’ve purchased the right shirts, blazers, and trousers. If they’re into sports, pack the clothing and equipment they need to participate. 

To stop your child’s clothes from ending up in heap on the floor, provide them with plenty of clothes hangers.
 

2. Bedding and Laundry 

Beds and mattresses will be included in your child’s room, but they may need to come with their own bedding. 

On your list, add two sets of sheets (one for the bed and one for laundry), a comforter and pillows. Again, consider the climate your child will live in and potential changes to the weather. If it’s going to get cold, pack an extra blanket to keep your child cosy at night.
 
For laundry days, things like a bag, detergent, and clothes rack for drying are all essential. (plus a reminder list of washing machine instructions from mum or dad).  Some or all of the above may already be provided. Be sure to check in with the school beforehand so you only purchase what your child will need. 
 

3. Toiletries and Hygiene    

Toiletries might be quite low on your child’s list of priorities, so it’s up to you to make sure they have everything they need to stay clean. Pack up all the bathroom essentials: toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, and hair products are all a good place to start. 

Towels and washcloths are also essential. Like bedding, it’s wise to pack at least two to allow for laundry rotation. If it’s summer or your child will be living in a warm climate, give them the protection they need with bottles of sun lotion and a baseball cap. 
 

4. Personal Touches

Many of the things you’ll pack are practical everyday items we need to go about daily life – but be sure to leave room for items that fulfil a different need. Your child’s room is vital to making them feel like boarding school is home. You can help foster this by packing personal items that are meaningful to your child.

Inject some character into your child’s room with trophies, books, or mementos that are unique to your child. If it’s posters or pictures, bring some picture-hanging strips in case the school doesn’t allow you to put nails in the wall. 

5. School and Stationery Supplies

To help your child get the most out of their time in the classroom, they’ll need a range of stationery and school supplies. Choose a backpack big enough to hold all your child’s books and required tech devices, and pack it with pens, pencils, highlighters and a planner.

Speaking of technology, they may already own a laptop or tablet that can help them with their schoolwork. Couple it with a USB drive for storing files on the move. 
 

6. Alarm Clock

One final, vital piece of equipment. Your child’s new routine will require discipline – starting with rising out of bed without your help. With an alarm clock, there’s no excuse if they aren’t up and out of bed in time for class!