What to Pack and What to Leave for Boarding School
Boarding schools are an excellent place for kids to blossom into independent, self-confident individuals! Did you know, in the US alone, thousands of kids are joining boarding schools every year?
It is a fantastic idea if you are also considering sending your child to a boarding school. It does not mean that you love your kid any less. Instead, it is a brave decision to make.

This is a collaborative post.
However, packing for this adventure is slightly different, but no worries – we’ve got your back! This article explores what’s essential for boarding school life.
So, why wait? Let’s dive in and gear up for the ride!
Packing Essentials
Before you pack, you will need to collect all the things that your child might require in the boarding school.
Fortunately, the back to school shopping has been made easier with online platforms offering all the necessary items in one place.
You can order all the things and get them delivered at home. And to help ensure that you have all the essentials, we’ve created this checklist:
- Clothing: As your kids will be away for a long time, they will need various clothing for different occasions. Therefore, you should pack seasonal outfits like light summer wear and warm winter layers. And, if their school has any uniforms, pack that first. You can also keep some comfy casuals for leisure time and weekends with friends. And, of course, socks and underwear to keep it fresh and funky!
- Toiletries: Ensure your kids stay fresh and confident at all times! Pack personal hygiene heroes like toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, and shampoo. And, if needed, remember to include menstrual products for your daughters.
- Bedding and Linen: You should check with the school about bedding provisions. If necessary, pack bed sheets, a cosy blanket or comforter, and a pillow with pillowcases.
- School Supplies: You can confirm with the school which textbooks they provide and what stationery the kids need to bring. Then, pack their pens, pencils, notebooks, a sturdy backpack, and more according to the requirement. Do they like to write? Young writers will always appreciate a nice journal.
- Gifts: If they won’t see you for Advent, Easter etc then consider adding a small Easter gift or an Advent calendar to their bags.
So, parents, get ready to watch your kids go on an incredible boarding school journey carrying the right essentials. They’ll have a blast making new friends and creating unforgettable memories!
Items to Not Pack
Parents, now that you know what you must pack, let’s read what you must not fill in their boarding school bags.
Safety and convenience are essential, so please avoid sending prohibited items like weapons, dangerous substances, or anything illegal.
Likewise, it would be best to pack only what is necessary, as dorm space can be limited. Leave behind valuable and sentimental treasures, such as expensive jewellery or irreplaceable mementos.
Remember, boarding school life is about growth and making memories, so keep it light and joyful!
Tips for Efficient Packing
- Create a checklist to stay organised.
- Utilize space-saving packing techniques like rolling clothes.
- Coordinate with roommates to share certain items.
- Label belongings with your child’s name and contact information.
- Prioritise essential items and leave non-essential ones behind.
- Use packing cubes or organizers to keep things tidy.
Anything Else?
Packing stuff for your kids to send them to a boarding school is full of multiple emotions. On the one hand, you are happy to send them to a place that will ignite their future.
While on the other hand, you’re worried they should have everything they need in your absence.
Hence, we hope the above packing list helps you pack the essentials for your kids without worry. Ready, set, go – boarding school awaits!