Coming straight out of university, you successfully secured a job at a large consulting company located in downtown Toronto. Due to the nature of the job, you are required to put in extra hours and the two hour commute to and fro work adds on to the stress you already have. You decide it is time to move out and live closer to work so you can lessen the burden on your commute.

Moving out from a place you have lived in for more than half your life and having to decide on what to take with you and what to leave behind can be tricky. Similar to any adventure, it is easier when you plan ahead.

• Know the size of your new place – you will probably not have as much as space as you had at home and there may be a chance you will be sharing this space with someone else.
• Pack only the things you will use – moving means downsizing. This is a great time for you to go through everything you have and let go of the possessions that no longer fit your lifestyle.
• Reduce duplication – if you will be sharing your dorm room or apartment, discuss with your roommate(s) before you pack and arrange to share things like coffee machines, microwaves, hair dryers, etc.
• Focus on quality – purchase the best furniture you can afford. If you are feeling creative, check out garage sales and think of ways to repurpose items that other people no longer want. Make sure the furniture is multi-functional, chairs are comfortable and lighting is task-specific.
• Choose low maintenance bedding and accessories – be realistic and practical. You have better things to do than laundry and cleaning.
• Personalize your space – pack your favourite posters, great photos of friends and family and a bulletin board to keep track of really important dates and events.
• Check out the dollar stores – dollar stores carry a great deal of organizational supplies like file folders, storage boxes, stationary and lot other interesting stuff.
• Go through all your clothes before you pack – if you have not worn it in the past year, do not take it with you. Donate it or pitch it.
• If you forget something, it is not a big deal – you may be moving out of the house, but you are most likely moving to a place that has stores that sell the stuff you will need.
• Phone home – if you are moving out of town, find out your long-distance phone plan and the most cost-effective way of keeping in touch with family and friends.

When you move out to live on your own with a friend, it is exciting and nerve wracking at the same time. But it is definitely a way to mature and live independently.

Perhaps going through this list helped you in determining the necessities you will be bringing with you to your new home. Read more on some simple organizing tips that will come handy when you start packing for your move.