Don’t be the one running to Tesco on day 1
This is your what-to-take-to-uni checklist. Feel free to grab this list to help you pack for your uni adventure. There might be other things you’d like to take, but you’d be surprised how many people forget the following basics.
You can use our accommodation search to check what’s already at your accommodation – so you don’t end up buying something that’s already provided. Or perhaps take a virtual tour of your accommodation to check, or just get in touch with your uni or college to ask.
Check what’s already provided for you, but you’ll likely need to pack some or all of these. If you’re in student halls of accommodation, the heating might be controlled automatically – so it’s worth taking extra blankets if you’re someone who likes it warmer or likes lots of fresh air.
See what’s already available to use in the kitchen. Usually the big appliances are already there and you’ll just need some things to eat with/from. You shouldn’t need much of each, though maybe get some spares for when your friends or family come round.
This depends on whether you’re sharing a bathroom or you have your own en-suite – either way you’ll need some of these.
You might have your own desk and chair in your room – maybe a desk lamp too – but don’t forget to bring whatever else you need to start your course and go to lectures.
It’s a good idea to personalise your room so it feels like a home away from home – and to have some stuff with you for fun, exercise, hobbies etc.
If you’re not sure about what to take – or whether you’re taking too much or too little – have a chat with current students to see what they packed. (Or what they forgot to pack!)
Also check out our advice on things you don't need to take to uni, and how to do the student food shopping.
Or start your student accommodation search here.