SW will allow two checked bags per passenger, but you (the adult who’s doing drop-off) can probably get away with having all your stuff in a carry-on. So that’s at least 4 big suitcases (depending on how many adults) for the student. You can order items to pick up at a local Target/Walmart, and you can see if the college post office will hold packages (and for how long). Also, if your kid needs to switch out clothes seasonally, that can be done at Thanksgiving break (or just ship boxes of cooler-weather clothes sooner). They just need the necessities to start. They can add to their dorm room and supplies later if need be.
We’ve tried our best to moderate purchases and go as minimal as possible. That being said, both D20 and D23 swear by their white noise machine.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B093P2D8SS/ref=twister_B09732M2Z1?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
It gives them white noise if they need it, also works as small night light, good variety of sounds to choose from as well as light colors. It is actually quite small, so doesn’t take up a lot of room.
In some statesvyou get all four seasons in the same day. DS is bringing clothes for all seasons. It might mean an extra bag now (while there are 3 of us traveling), but it also means less to manage on his other flights throughout the year.
Getting his stuff there doesn’t seem like it’s going to be too difficult as we’ll buy a lot while we are there. Although S23 had some good insight a few days ago. “Mom, how are we going to get everything home?” Mind blown…
Yes, I live in one of those states (CO). But it depends on altitude. At 10,000 feet, yes. At 5280? Maybe here and there between October and April (well, May), but not now. You’re safe foregoing the heavy winter stuff at first unless your kid is going to school on a mountaintop. Or maybe in Alaska.
As for getting everything home, you don’t need to worry as much about that, because students should be able to store their stuff over the summer (if not on-campus, there are usually companies that rent storage spaces for college students). Look into it. In that case, you can leave bedding, linens, winter stuff, and any other supplies you’ve already got in duplicate at home. It’s the first move that’s the hardest. After that, it gets much easier (until graduation).