1. Pack only what they will need to get through the first semester. Resist the urge to buy too much ahead of time ...much of it will come back having never been used...if it comes back at all. Most college towns have a Wal-Mart or Target if you forget something.
2. Buy white towels and sheets. Boys need visual reminders that their stuff is dirty. If they don't see it, it doesn't exist. Also, whites can be bleached at Christmas.
3. Most important kitchen item: Large, plastic garbage bags. They will not buy these on their own.
4. Most important bathroom item: Toilet paper. They will not buy this on their own.
5. Invest in plastic, stacking storage drawers...great for closets and easy to move.
6. Best decorating tip: Buy motivational and baseball posters ahead of time before they are left to "decorate" on their own.
