Go to college—without going crazy

August 13, 3:14 PMLoyola University Chicago ExaminerHalle Miroglotta

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     Space Bags are a life saver for moving

Nineteen years old. Undeclared major. Fresh notebooks on the kitchen table. Half-packed boxes cluttering the living room.

If this profile seems familiar, you probably are (or know someone who is) about to move back to college. If it's your first time going to college, nerves are undoubtedly setting in. If you're an experienced college mover, you are likely feeling more annoyed than nervous. Fact: Whether your college is twenty minutes from home or half-way across the country, packing is not a fun task.

Since I've already done "the college thing" for a year, packing has been considerably easier this year than last. With the wisdom that only a dorm-dwelling college student can impart, here are my favorite tips and tricks for saving space, saving money, and saving sanity:

1. Space Bags. Seriously, why didn't I know about these earlier? These handy bags are relatively inexpensive, can be found online or at most Target-esque stores, and are the only reason my belongings will fit into the car. Simply fill the bags with blankets, mattress pads, bedding, bathrobes, or clothing and then vacuum out the air. The amount of space you will save is unbelievable. If you want the numbers, the Space Bag website says you can store four times the amount of stuff in the same amount of space. If you don't want the numbers, believe me.

2. Milk crates are indispensable. They are cheap to buy, easy to find, and sturdy to use. On the road, they serve as packing boxes. Once you are in your dorm or apartment, they turn into furniture. It's magic.

3. Never underestimate the power of curb shopping. If you need a small table or some kitchen chairs, don't stick them in the car. In fact, don't even bother buying them in the first place. It's August, folks, and leases are up all across the country. Once you get to school, find the nearest residential neighborhood and wait until garbage day. In the past week I have driven past an armchair, two TVs, a baby cradle, and a dining room table. A buddy of mine once found a working mo-ped on someone's curb. All I'm saying is, you will be amazed at what people throw away. If you are able to find what you need on a curb, then you saved yourself money. If you have to buy it once you get to school, then you saved yourself space in the car. Either way, you luck out.

Finally, and perhaps most importantly:

4. Small stuff adds up. You don't need those three back-up tubes of toothpaste. You will be okay without your nostalgic knick-knack collection. You'll make it through the year even if you don't bring every pair of shoes you own. I promise.

Want to add tips from your own moving experiences? Comment below and share your know-how!