Even if you’re not a lover of lists, it’s good to have a plan of the basics you need to take with you. Here, we’ve put together a big list of everything you need to take to uni.
You can still follow this advice if you’re not going into halls of residence, but make sure to check what’s already included if you’re going into shared private accommodation.
Bedroom
Your room will usually be kitted out with some basics, including a bed and mattress, a wardrobe, desk and chair. But you need to pack the things that make it feel like home. You should take:
- duvet, duvet cover and sheets (take a few of each)
- mattress protector
- pillows and pillowcases
- things to spruce up your room, like a rug and some cushions
- decorations to make you feel more at home. Things that hang on door handles, photo frames, and fairy lights are some examples
- photos, posters, and Blu Tack
- stationery and books
- laptop, phone, chargers, and whatever other tech you need. A small speaker can be handy if you’re allowed one
- purse, cards, ID, passport, important documents etc.
- bags, including the essential clutch/bumbag for nights out and a bag big enough to fit your laptop and books in for uni
- clothes, shoes, and coat hangers
- a TV if you want one, but most people use their laptop or a PC monitor (remember to get your TV licence sorted)
- an airer and laundry basket
- medicine (paracetamol is a fresher's must)
- a bedroom bin (double-check, as this might be provided)
Top tip: Try not to overpack. You’ll probably end up acquiring things while you’re there, and bear in mind you’ll need to move it all again next summer. If there’s anything key you’ve forgotten, you can order it or go to the shops once you’re settled.
Bathroom
Check whether your accommodation is en suite or shared. If it’s shared, you might end up wanting to split the cost of things like toilet rolls later down the line. To start off with, take:
- shampoo, conditioner, and shower gel
- toothbrush and toothpaste
- hand soap
- toilet cleaner, bleach, toilet brush
- towels and hand towels
- toilet rolls
Kitchen
Most halls provide a toaster and a kettle (in addition to your oven), but check what you get before you go. Many won’t provide things like microwaves, and you might want to club in together with your flatmates for this once you’re a bit more settled. The essentials you'll need are:
- a few mugs and glasses
- a couple of saucepans and frying pans
- a chopping board and some baking trays
- cutlery and some chopping knives
- plates and bowls
- bin bags, sandwich bags, foil, and cling film
- any utensils you need, like a wooden spoon, spatula, and pizza wheel
- tea towels
- Tupperware
- some cupboard essentials, like teabags, baked beans, and pasta, to get you through the first few days
Top tip: When you arrive, find a local shop to get some fresh essentials like milk and bread. It’s also a good way to get to know the local area.
Find your accommodation
Finding somewhere you'll be happy to live is an important consideration when you're deciding where you want to study. To help you make the right choice, use our accommodation search to research your options and find both uni and private student accommodation.
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