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This is a collaborative post.
Finally, A-level results are in! A day of mixed emotions now transforms into a moment where it suddenly feels very real. You’re going to university. First of all, congratulations are in order – not just from your friends and family, but from yourself as well. Take a moment to reflect on the hard work you’ve put in so far. You got yourself here. You put in the work, studied, revised, and performed in the tests. That’s no small feat – and it’s perfectly acceptable to give yourself a little pat on the back.
Now, however, the real work begins. For most new undergrads, starting uni life also marks the first big move away from home. Starting in a new part of the country (or even the world) is incredibly exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming – especially when it comes to preparations.
Your parents will probably be keen to see you off with all sorts of creature comforts (to the point of embarrassment), but what do you actually need to take with you? Do you bring the whole contents of your bedroom? Will there be enough storage? What if you forget something important?
At this stage, having a clear, sensible list of things you need will make the whole process far less stressful – and leave less of a margin for error. With that in mind, here’s a guide from the experts at Student Luxe (who are true gurus in student prep, helping house people just like you in student apartments in Cambridge, Oxford, London and more) to the things you really shouldn’t forget – and a few extras that will make your new space feel like home.
Making Your Room Feel Like Your Room
Your bedroom is the one place on campus that’s yours, so comfort matters. Pack the basics – duvet, pillows, sheets, and a mattress protector – but don’t underestimate the power of a throw blanket or a couple of cushions to add a little extra comfort and character. They’ll make your room look less like a bare student flat and more like your own space.
Here’s a golden rule: check the bed size before you buy bedding. No, really, send an email or pick up the phone if you have to – this one areas that’s worth being sure of. Halls and other student accommodation options often use single beds or “small doubles” to save on space, and nothing is more annoying than wrestling with a sheet that doesn’t fit.
Cooking More Than Instant Noodles
It’s a bit of a cliche that uni students end up living off beans on toast and instant noodles. We get it, you’re strapped for time and cash, but the truth is you don’t need an entire kitchen showroom of gadgets and gizmos to make good meals. A couple of good pans, some basic utensils and a few plates, bowls, and mugs will see you through. A sharp knife and some tupperware are worth their weight in gold for meal prep and leftovers.
Something we’ve heard from countless freshers before you – bring at least one “shareable” item – something that you’d be happy to lend to your fellow students. A big frying pan, cafetiere, or even a teapot can be a great icebreaker, and it’s no secret that cooking and eating a meal together is one of the easiest ways to make friends – especially important in those first few weeks.
The Study Setup
Freshers’ week is an absolute highlight of the “new uni student” experience, and while it’s important to get out there and socialise, don’t forget that you’re also there to study! A laptop is the obvious must-have, but think about the little extras that will make life just a touch easier: extension leads (invariably, plug sockets are never where you want them), noise-cancelling headphones for the library, and a sturdy backpack to carry it all.
And yes, it seems silly to mention it, but you will need pens, notebooks, and highlighters. Don’t overdo it, though – you don’t need to take a full office-worth of equipment with you. Pack the basics and seek out your nearest stationary store for the rest.
Staying Healthy (and Surviving Freshers’ Flu)
No packing list is complete without basic toiletries, and a good toothbrush, deodorant, shampoo and soap are a bare minimum. Don’t ignore the value of throwing in a small health kit.
Paracetamol, plasters, cold remedies, vitamins – even a good set of tweezers for splinters – are all things you don’t want to be hunting down when you’re already feeling gross and under the weather. What’s more, you can position yourself as the responsible, caring type when one of your fellow students finds themselves in need of a plaster.
Clothes and Laundry Reality Check
Most students overpack clothes. You don’t need ten pairs of jeans – stick to everyday basics, some sportswear, and one or two smarter/flashier outfits for events. Pack for the weather (yes, that means waterproofs) and don’t forget comfortable shoes – style is important, but you’ll walk far more than you expect, and your ankles will be thankful for proper support.
Unless you plan on dragging laundry home to your parents every weekend, you’ll need detergent, a basket or bag, and maybe even a drying rack. A laundry bag you can sling over your shoulder will make life a lot easier if the machines are a bit of a trek from your room.
The Boring but Important Stuff
Paperwork might not be glamorous, but you’ll need it. Pack your ID, bank cards, student finance documents, and university acceptance papers. If you want to be extra cautious and prepared, take photos of everything so you’ve always got a backup in a pinch (though it’s worth noting that a photo of your ID probably won’t help you get into nightclubs – you should always carry the real thing).
A Few Home Comforts Go a Long Way
University life is all about new experiences, but having a few familiar touches goes a long way toward helping you settle in. Posters, fairy lights, or photos of friends and family can instantly brighten up a room and make you feel more at ease in your new surroundings. A favourite mug or a stash of your favourite snacks can do the same.
If there’s one “unofficial essential” we find students tend to swear by, it’s a doorstop. Prop your door open in those first few days and you’ll be amazed how many new friends just wander in to say hello.
Extras That Make Life Easier
Over time, you’ll discover what your unique extras are, but some items are proven to make life a little easier: a reusable water bottle, a travel mug, and even a small toolkit for fixing the little things. A yoga mat or gym kit is also a smart addition if staying active helps you settle in.
Happy packing and even happier studies!
I said it at the start of the article, but it bears repeating that your parents will try to furnish you with all sorts of wonderful bits and pieces. You can’t blame them – they’re going to miss you and they want to make sure you’re comfortable and happy in your new environment. But, trust us when we say that you’ll miss the essentials far more than a bread maker. Make sure you have all of these covered, with a few extra comforts to make your new space feel homely. Don’t follow the temptation to over-prepare – you’ll want enough room left for the new life you’re about to start.