Tips for First-Year Move-In

Two volunteers wearing light green shirts moving a large box through Coughlin Hall's lobby during move-in weekend. Abov the volunteers on the wall is a welcome sign reading "Welcome Class of 2028."

August 08, 2025
Becky Doyle '22, Admission Counselor

Welcome New Zags!

We are so excited to welcome a new group of students to campus in just two short weeks! Our Housing & Residence Life and New Student & Family Programs Offices have published some great information to help students and families make Welcome Weekend and move-in as smooth as possible. Check out our tips below!

Move-In Steps

Be sure to review your assigned move-in time and check your email for specific instructions. Once you arrive on campus, our staff and student volunteers will help guide you through the unloading process, direct you to parking, and answer any questions.

Upon arrival, students can park in the BARC parking garage and head to Foley Lawn for a one-stop check-in experience. There, first-year and transfer students will check in for Parent and Family Orientation and pick up their housing key and ZagCard. Returning students should bring their ZagCard to check in and receive their housing key.

Once check-in is complete, students can move into their residence hall. For a full breakdown of what to expect—including maps, steps, and tips—visit the move-in webpage.

Packing List

It can be hard to know what to bring and what not to bring to campus. Here is our list for what to bring and what not to bring to campus!

In addition to essentials like bedding and toiletries, consider bringing items that help personalize your space, like photos, small storage bins, or a cozy throw blanket.

Check out the official New Student Packing List below for must-haves and restricted items—and don’t forget to coordinate with your roommate so you don’t double up on things like mini fridges or microwaves!

Bring

Bedding & Bath

  • Blanket
  • Comforter
  • Extra-Long Twin Sheets (Lower division housing)
  • Full Size Sheets (Upper division housing)
  • Mattress Pad
  • Pillow(s) & Pillowcase(s)
  • Shower Shoes/Flip Flops
  • Shower Caddy
  • Towels & Washcloths

Room Comfort (Optional)

  • Area Rug
  • Desk Lamp & Bulbs
  • Fan (Large &/or clip)
  • Floor Lamp & Bulbs
  • Refrigerator (max. 4 cubic ft.)
  • Wall Decor

Laundry

  • Cleaning Supplies
  • Laundry Detergent
  • Laundry Bag/Basket
  • Paper Towels
  • Clothes Steamer (optional)
  • Drying Rack (optional)

Storage & Organization

  • Hangers
  • Hanging Storage Solutions
  • Mirror Full Length (optional)
  • Underbed Storage

Study/Electronics

  • Notebooks, Binders, & Folders
  • Computer & Charger
  • Cell Phone & Charger
  • Ear Buds/Headphones
  • Power Strip
  • Gaming System (optional)
  • TV & Coaxial Cable (optional)

Personal Supplies

  • Soaps & Shampoo
  • Toothbrush & Toothpaste
  • Hair Products/Hair Dryer
  • First Aid Kit
  • Prescription/OTC Medications
  • Thermometer

Recommended Items

  • Backpack
  • Bicycle
  • Brita Water Filter
  • Can Opener
  • Cookware
  • Dishware/Silverware
  • Dry Erase Board
  • Flashlight & Batteries
  • Food Storage Containers
  • Pictures/Posters
  • Plants
  • Recreation Equipment
  • Reusable Water Bottle
  • Sunglasses
  • Umbrella/Raingear
  • 3M Command Strips

Do Not Bring

  • Candles (Acceptable Alternatives: Essential oil diffuser or wax melter)
  • Cooking Appliances (hot plate, griddle, camping stove, BBQ's, crock pots, etc.)
  • Firearms/Weapons
  • Heaters/Halogen Lamps/Heat Lamps
  • Portable AC Units
  • Pets
  • Large Furniture Items


Move-in is an exciting milestone, and a little preparation can go a long way. With these tips and resources, you'll be ready to settle into campus life and start your Gonzaga journey with confidence. Welcome home, Zags—we can’t wait to see you on campus!

 

Learn more about Housing & Residence Life and New Student & Family Programs.: