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The Ultimate Packing Checklist for Boarding School
Starting the school year with everything you need for class sets the stage for a successful and memorable academic year. Whether you're headed to a traditional boarding school or a military high school, following a thoughtful packing checklist can make all the difference in your transition. Gathering all boarding and military school necessities—then packing them wisely—will help you start your school year on the right foot.
Blacksburg, VA, high school students will find a unique blend of traditional school experiences and military discipline at Massanutten Military Academy. Established in 1899, our academy combines a daily structure and consistency with a strong focus on leadership and STEM-based academics. At Massanutten, character development and service lie at the core of the educational experience, empowering students to reach their highest potential. Call our Admissions Office at (540) 459-2167 today to learn more.
Below, a comprehensive guide to help you pack efficiently:
The Importance of a Well-Planned Packing List
Historically, boarding school move-in day is full of hustle and bustle as students and their families navigate the excitement and chaos of a new environment. A smart packing list helps new and returning students alike navigate this chaos. With everything carefully considered and organized, students can focus on acclimating to their new surroundings, making connections, and starting classes strong rather than scrambling to replace forgotten items.
Essentials for Every Boarding School Student
Between maintaining personal hygiene and keeping up with academic responsibilities, students must be well-equipped for all aspects of dorm life. Therefore, every boarding school student should pack:
- Personal Hygiene Items: Dental care essentials, shaving items as needed, fingernail clippers and nail file, shower essentials, bathrobe, comb, and hairbrush.
- School Materials: Paper, pens, pencils, binders, calculator, and alarm clock.
- Bedding and Linens: Twin-size bed sheet set, comforter, standard-size pillow, pillowcases, bath towels, hand towels, and washcloths.
Gathering these basics is necessary to immerse in the boarding school experience.
Specific Items for Military School Cadets
Packing lists for military boarding schools often differ from those for traditional boys and girls boarding schools due to military environments’ unique demands. In addition to standard personal hygiene and school supplies, cadets must pack specific clothing and uniform care items that align with the school’s military dress code and discipline standards. For example, Massanutten Military Academy cadets are expected to bring:
- Clothing Items: White crew neck T-shirts (no tank tops, v-necks, or civilian clothes).
- Footwear: Two pairs of sneakers for physical training and daily wear.
- Shoe and Uniform Care: Black shoe polish, a shoe brush, a polish applicator brush, and shoe shine rags.
Furthermore, returning cadets are expected to bring all uniforms and gear issued in the previous school year. This is a non-exhaustive list; students should confirm packing expectations with their school.
Boarding School Packing Tips
Packing always presents a challenge, especially when space is limited. But creative packing solutions can help. Rolling clothes instead of folding them can save space in suitcases and footlockers, saving room for bulkier items like bedding. Labeling all belongings, especially uniform pieces, is critical to avoid mix-ups in shared living spaces. Finally, reviewing the school’s specific packing guidelines will ensure compliance and prevent prohibited items on campus.
Explore Educational Opportunities at a Military High School Near Blacksburg, VA
With the right preparation, military high school students are set to thrive and succeed in their new setting. At Massanutten Military Academy near Blacksburg, VA, we provide cadets with the skills and support needed to build leadership, tackle obstacles, and forge a successful future. Learn how high your student can soar by calling (540) 459-2167 today!
You know your child can do more but is not getting the attention needed in their current environment to reach their full potential. We know that choosing the right school for your child can be difficult because each child is so unique. We believe students should experience school as it should be, a place where children are educated in an environment that leads them to thrive and encourages their maximum potential.
Massanutten Military Academy is a co-educational, non-profit military boarding and day school in Virginia for students in 8th-12th grades with postgraduate studies. We welcome all faiths and live by our motto: Non Nobis Solum (Not For Ourselves Alone).
Massanutten Military Academy admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school administered programs.
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