Packing up for college in a trunk is not just space saving, but it also makes for easy transport. The great thing about a dorm trunk is that it has so many uses once you actually get to college. Use it as a coffee table (in front of your futon), a bedside table, a bench to sit on or just a storage area for anything that needs to be organized and out of sight.
With your trunk as the focal spot you can add your dorm stuff at any point. You can do your big shopping in April/May and add the extras later or you can buy a few things now and shop for the bulk of your dorm stuff in July/August. Either way once you find what you like, simply add it to your trunk and you'll be all ready come freshman move-in day.
