Heading off to university is an exciting time, but what to take to uni can be daunting. While it’s easy to remember the big items like clothes, laptops, and bedding, it’s often the little things that make a big difference to your comfort and convenience. This "what to take to uni" guide will ensure you don’t forget any of those essential (and sometimes overlooked) items, so you can start your uni life without a hitch.
1. Bedroom Essentials
Your university room will become your home away from home, so it’s important to make it as cosy and functional as possible. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Bedding: Duvet, pillows, and at least two sets of bedsheets. Don’t forget a mattress protector!
- Comfort Items: A few cushions and a throw can make your room feel more homely.
- Hangers: Universities rarely provide hangers, so bring plenty for your wardrobe.
- Storage Boxes: Stackable boxes are perfect for keeping your room tidy. Under-bed storage can be a lifesaver in small spaces.
- Laundry Basket: Keep your dirty clothes organised and ready for the next trip to the launderette.
- Door Stop: Great for keeping your door open when you’re trying to be sociable or when you’re moving things in and out.
- Desk Lamp: University rooms can have dim lighting, so a good desk lamp is essential for late-night study sessions.
- Extension Leads: With limited plug sockets in rooms, extension leads are a must for charging your gadgets and powering your lamps.
- Photos and Posters: Bring a bit of home with you and personalise your space.
2. Bathroom and Toiletries
Depending on your accommodation, you might have an en-suite or shared bathroom. Either way, make sure you’re fully prepared:
- Towels: Bring at least two bath towels, a hand towel, and a couple of face cloths.
- Toiletries: Shampoo, conditioner, soap, razors, deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste, and anything else you use daily.
- Toiletry Bag: For easy transportation to and from shared bathrooms.
- Shower Caddy: If you’re sharing a bathroom, a caddy will help keep all your shower essentials together and make them easy to carry.
- Flip Flops: Essential for shared showers to keep your feet clean and safe.
- Toilet Roll: Don’t rely on your flatmates to bring it!
- Cleaning Supplies: A pack of disinfectant wipes and bathroom cleaner will help you keep your space hygienic.
- First Aid Kit: Basic supplies like plasters, painkillers, antiseptic cream, and any prescription medication.
3. Kitchen Must-Haves
Whether you’re in catered or self-catered accommodation, you’ll need some kitchen essentials. Here’s a breakdown of the must-haves:
- Crockery: A couple of plates, bowls, mugs, and glasses. Enough for your meals and a guest or two.
- Cutlery: Forks, knives, spoons, and teaspoons. Don’t forget a can opener, bottle opener, and corkscrew!
- Pots and Pans: A frying pan, a couple of saucepans, and a baking tray should cover most of your cooking needs.
- Sharp Knives and Chopping Board: Essential for preparing meals.
- Microwave-Safe Containers: For leftovers and meal prepping.
- Tupperware: Handy for storing snacks or carrying lunch to campus.
- Tea Towels: You’ll need a few for drying dishes. These are often forgotten but essential!
- Oven Gloves: Don’t risk burning yourself with hot trays.
- Washing Up Liquid and Sponges: Keep your kitchen clean from day one.
- Food Basics: Some long-life items like pasta, rice, cereal, and tinned goods are handy to have as a backup.
4. Study Supplies
Being prepared for your studies is key. Make sure you’ve got everything you need:
- Laptop/Tablet: Essential for research, essays, and staying in touch with home.
- Chargers: Don’t forget to pack your phone, laptop, and tablet chargers.
- Notebooks and Folders: Keep your notes organised by subject from the start.
- Stationery: Pens, pencils, highlighters, sticky notes, and a hole punch.
- Memory Stick: Useful for backing up work or transferring files.
- Printer: While most unis have printing facilities, having your own can be a time-saver (don’t forget extra ink cartridges and paper).
5. Clothing and Footwear
Your wardrobe will likely need to cover a variety of occasions, so pack smartly:
- Everyday Clothes: Enough for a week or so without doing laundry. Think jeans, t-shirts, jumpers, etc.
- Formal Wear: You might need something smart for formal events or job interviews.
- Workout Gear: If you plan on hitting the gym or joining a sports team.
- Coat and Umbrella: UK weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for rain.
- Slippers or Flip Flops: For padding around your accommodation.
- Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking on campus.
6. Miscellaneous Essentials
Finally, here are some bits and bobs that might slip your mind but are incredibly useful:
- Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated throughout the day.
- Travel Mug: Perfect for taking your tea or coffee to lectures.
- Bike and Lock: If you plan to cycle around campus.
- Padlock: Great for securing your valuables, especially in shared accommodation.
- Small Toolkit: A simple toolkit can come in handy for any minor repairs or flat-pack furniture assembly.
- Batteries: Useful for gadgets and anything battery-operated.
- Earplugs: Student halls can be noisy!
- Fairy Lights: A popular choice to make your room feel cosy.
- Fan: Some rooms can get stuffy in the warmer months.
Final Tips
- Don’t Overpack: You’ll likely acquire more things during your time at uni, so leave some space in your bags.
- Check with Your Accommodation: Some items (like kettles or mini-fridges) might already be provided or prohibited.
- Essentials First: Prioritise the must-haves, and you can always pick up extras after you’ve settled in.
With this what to take to uni comprehensive checklist, you’ll be fully prepared for life at university. If you're only after a basic checklist take a look here at our Necessity Packing List. Packing might seem like a lot, but once you’re all set up in your new room, you’ll be glad you brought everything you need. Good luck, and enjoy your university experience!
