Over the last few decades, we’ve become an invaluable home base for countless families on college move-in day.
Thanks to our relatively close proximity to schools like St. Francis University, Mount Aloysius College, and even Penn State University, we’ve become much more than a popular destination for railfans and a favorite stopping point on Pennsylvania road trips.
Here’s what we’ve learned: Move-in weekend doesn’t have to be chaotic, but it does take a little planning. Whether you’re packing up the car, renting a small U-Haul, or flying in from out of state, steal some of our favorite tips to help make move-in as smooth as possible.
5 College Move-In Tips
Here are some of the best move-in day tricks we’ve learned after years of watching parents and students come through The Station Inn:
1. Pack Smart, Not Heavy
Instead of stuffing huge boxes that take two people to lift, use smaller, lighter containers like clear plastic bins or soft duffel bags. These are easier to carry up dorm stairwells and fit better in tight car trunks. Plus, clear bins help you (and your student) see what’s inside without opening everything at once.
2. Label Everything
It’s amazing how quickly bags and boxes get mixed up during move-in, especially when hundreds of students are all arriving at the same time. Use bright, easy-to-read labels with your student’s name, dorm, and room number on every item. Pro tip: Color-coded tape can help you organize by room or category (clothes, bedding, kitchen stuff, etc.).
3. Pack A “First Night” Bag
No one wants to dig through ten boxes looking for a toothbrush or a phone charger after a long day. Pack a small overnight bag with essentials: pajamas, toiletries, a change of clothes, and any chargers or medications. Your student will be grateful when they can crash in comfort at the end of move-in day.
4. Make Your Travel Plan (And A Backup)
Double-check your directions, parking details, and any move-in day instructions from the school. If you’re traveling a long distance, plan for rest stops, snacks, and gas fill-ups—especially if you’re hauling a packed car. And, of course, have a backup route in case of unexpected construction or traffic jams.
5. Stay Somewhere Relaxing
You’ll want a soft bed, a quiet space, and good coffee after the long haul. That’s where we come in! Instead of stressing out in a crowded hotel, stay at The Station Inn, where you can unwind on the porch, watch the trains roll by, and enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep before or after move-in day. We explain much more in the next section!
Move-in day is a whirlwind of emotions – excitement, stress, and exhaustion all rolled into one. As you prepare to send your student off to St. Francis University or Mount Aloysius College, why not make this transition a little smoother?
Instead of battling the crowds at a boring hotel, consider a stay at The Station Inn Bed & Breakfast. Our charming inn offers a peaceful retreat just a short drive from both campuses.
Why Choose The Station Inn?
- Home Away From Home: Enjoy the comfort and personalized service of a bed and breakfast. Our friendly staff is here to ensure your stay is exceptional.
- Home-Style Environment: We’re not fancy, and we’re not very formal. There are no doilies or homemade jams here. While many of our regular guests love trains, you don’t have to be a railfan to enjoy our relaxing, low-key vibe.
- Relax and Recharge: After a long day of moving, unwind on our porch with a good book or simply watch the trains pass by.
- Delicious Breakfast: Start your day off right with a homemade breakfast that will fuel you for the day ahead. (We have plenty of coffee, too.)
- Unwind and Connect: Our cozy common areas provide a perfect space to relax and reconnect with your family.
Let us take care of the little things while you focus on supporting your student as they embark on this new chapter. With comfortable accommodations, delicious food, and a serene atmosphere, The Station Inn is the ideal place to rest and recharge during college move-in weekend.
