3 Tips to Stay Organized in Temporary Living

Emory Keel's previous blog work separate from ECON 325 portfolio

Via Letusorganizeit.org August 3rd, 2021

Like many people, I often dream about my forever home. For me, it will be nestled in the Denver, Colorado suburbs with a big porch. However, until then, I have frequently moved in between college dorms, apartments and now across the world in Oahu, Hawaii. For my summer staycation, I had to adjust and make do with temporary and sometimes less than ideal organization of my belongings. Whether it’s a summer internship that takes you to a new city, a month-long vacation or a temporary job relocation, Let Us Organize It is here to share some of our tips and tricks for how to stay organized while living in a space for a short amount of time.

1. Buy items second-hand:

Remember it’s only for a short amount of time. There is no need to buy an expensive whole living and bedroom set. There are many websites and places to buy quality and stylish furniture pieces at affordable prices, such as Facebook Marketplace, Craiglist, Goodwill, Habitat for Humanity, and estate sales. My roommates and I spent a week when we moved into our apartment searching all these places to find furniture without breaking the bank. When the time comes to move, you can always post an estate sale or sell them quickly on the same websites. Downsize and Keep Essentials only

Less is more. Do your research about the area and nearby activities. Pack logically and realistically. For example, when I moved to Hawaii for the summer, I knew I did not need to bring my winter jacket and clothes. However, I did need to bring my entire bathing suit collection. Let Us Organize It is all about decluttering and downsizing your home to allow for maximum functionality. This is the same for your temporary space. You don’t need your entire shoe collection or every kitchen gadget Target has to offer. I would recommend allowing yourself to bring or buy daily tools and, if need be, buy anything else as you see fit.

2. Multi-purpose items

We all love a good “kill two birds with one stone” situation. The key to short-term living is finding functionality in the items you do have. Bringing or buying items that can serve you many uses will help with lighter living and an easy move. An over-the-door shoe holder can also be multi-purpose storage for cords, snacks, and more.

3. Throw away items

Some things are cheaper and more convenient to buy than to bring, such as laundry detergent or snacks. I purchased a few items for my temporary living situation: a clothes rack, hangers, and plastic drawers from Target. All of the things were affordable and have been super helpful in organizing my clothes and miscellaneous items. Then when I go to move, I can easily donate or throw them away. Look for convenience when buying things to fit your needs for your living situation best.

Emory's clothing organization at her summer home in Hawaii

Whether at your forever home or your in-between apartment, Let Us Organize It wants to help share all of our favorite tips and tricks for organized living.