Going home for the break, without dragging your whole room with you

First, decide what’s coming back with you

Most students overpack for home and underplan for coming back. Before anything goes in a suitcase, sort your room into three piles: comes home with me, stays in Brisbane, and doesn’t need to exist anymore.

The “stays in Brisbane” pile is usually bigger than you think: winter clothes you won’t need, kitchen things, books, bedding, desk bits.

Check your lease before you lock the door

• Read the end date and notice period in your agreement.
• If you’re keeping the room, confirm rent payments continue while you’re away.
• If you’re leaving the room, book your final inspection and photograph everything.
• Ask your housemates or manager about anything left in shared spaces.

Pack for storage like future-you will open it

• Use sturdy cardboard boxes and don’t overfill them.
• Write a short contents list for every box.
• Keep liquids, food and anything flammable out of storage.
• Vacuum-seal doonas and jackets to save space.
• Keep valuables and documents with you.

The week before you fly

• Pause or cancel subscriptions you won’t use.
• Tell your bank you’re travelling.
• Check your visa conditions and university dates for your return.
• Empty your fridge and clear your mail.

Coming back

Plan the return before you leave: where you’ll live when you land, and when your things need to arrive. If you’re moving into a new place, your boxes can go straight there.