There’s something about that first move-in day. The boxes, the nervous excitement, maybe the slight panic over whether you packed your phone charger. Moving into
University of Southern California Off Campus Housing can feel like a huge step—more freedom, more space, and a little more responsibility than a dorm ever demanded.

Still, it helps to be prepared. Having a checklist keeps the process from spiraling into chaos. And trust me, it’s a lot easier to enjoy the moment when you’re not digging through tape rolls or realizing you forgot your shower curtain.

First, the Basics

Let’s start simple. There are the things everyone forgets until it’s too late.

• Bedding (sheets, pillows, comforter—an extra set helps when laundry piles up)
• Towels and a shower mat
• Basic cleaning supplies: paper towels, multipurpose cleaner, vacuum or handheld sweeper
• A small toolkit—screwdriver, hammer, measuring tape
• Laundry basket and detergent (clothes pile up faster than you think)

The idea isn’t to move in with everything you’ve ever owned. It’s to bring enough that you feel settled, and then add what makes sense once you’re here.

Apartment Essentials

When you live at GW, a lot of the heavy lifting is already done for you. Fully furnished spaces mean you won’t be dragging a sofa up the stairs or worrying about whether your desk fits. But there are still small touches that make the space yours.

• Extra lighting—lamps or string lights can make a huge difference
• Kitchen basics: cookware, plates, utensils, dish soap, trash bags
• Storage bins (under-bed containers are lifesavers)
• A first-aid kit and spare batteries
• Reusable water bottles or a Brita filter—hydration is underrated

Explore our floor plans to see what’s included and what you might still want to bring.

The Personal Stuff

This part always takes longer than expected. Maybe it’s the photos, the plants, or that one blanket you’ve had since freshman year of high school. Whatever makes a space feel like yours, bring it.

It’s easy to think you’ll decorate later, but those first few nights feel better when you’re surrounded by familiar things. A corkboard, framed pictures, maybe even your favorite mug—those details matter. They turn “temporary housing” into something that feels like home.

Tech and School Gear

With classes just steps away, you might assume you’ll have everything ready once you unpack. Still, double-check:

• Laptop and charger (plus a backup flash drive)
• Extension cords or a power strip
• Headphones for late-night study sessions
• Printer paper and basic school supplies

If you’re moving into GW, the Wi-Fi is already handled—one less thing on the list.
See our amenities for more about what’s included.

Groceries and Daily Living

The first grocery trip always feels like an event. Go light at first—you’ll quickly figure out what fits in your pantry and what you actually use. Start with:

• Breakfast staples (oats, eggs, or granola bars)
• Coffee or tea supplies
• Snacks for long study days
• Basic seasonings—salt, pepper, olive oil, maybe one spice you overuse
• Cleaning wipes and paper goods

Living in University of Southern California Off Campus Housing gives you the freedom to cook, host, and live a little more like an adult—but that doesn’t mean you need a gourmet kitchen setup on day one. Build as you go.

Final Tips Before Move-In

Try to arrive early enough to unpack before classes start. It’s tempting to wait, but setting up your space ahead of time makes the semester feel smoother. You’ll know where everything is, you’ll feel grounded, and—most importantly—you’ll have time to explore.

And if you’re living at GW, you’re already a few steps ahead. Being right on USC grounds means you’re close to everything that matters: class, campus events, and the kind of community that still feels connected, even when you’re technically “off campus.”

Ready to see it in person?
Schedule a tour and get a feel for what move-in could look like—boxes, excitement, and a space that’s ready for you.