It’s getting closer to you going to university, so you’re probably wondering “What should I take?” Well, look no further! We’ve scoured the internet and asked around, and have come up with a list of 15 things that may come in handy when you move to uni. Remember to pack relatively light, though; you’ll be surprised at how much stuff you’ll accumulate in a year!
1. A clothes horse
When you move out, you’re going to be responsible for your own laundry and your own budgeting. Many universities will have laundry rooms with washing machines and dryers which are normally coin operated. So you can save some money by bringing a clothes horse and drying your clothes in your room. Every little helps!
2. A double duvet
Treat yourself to a double duvet! Most halls of residence will have a single bed, so you may as well invest in a nice double duvet to make sleeping a bit more comfortable! You'll also probably end up with a double bed in your second year so it's worth getting one now!
3. Things to hang up
From fairy lights to posters, you're going to want to make your room your own. We covered how to decorate your room in week 21, so take a look there for some ideas! It’s also worth investing in some hanging strips; you wont need to hammer in any nails and they won't leave a mark when you remove the stuff from your walls when you're getting ready to move out.
4. Extension leads
Extension leads are key to a room in halls of residence. You’re going to have more plugs than plug sockets so this will make things a lot easier! But please make sure you don't overload them and try to get them PAT tested before using them in halls.
5. First aid kit
It’s always a good idea to have the first aid essentials lying around - plasters and ibuprofen will definitely come in handy while you’re living away from home!
6. Doorstops
When you first move into halls, prop your door open so you can meet the rest of your flatmates! Doorstops will definitely come in handy as it will make the whole experience more sociable. You can leave the door open if you want a chat and just close it if you want some alone time!
7. Speakers
Speakers are an essential when to moving into halls. They’ll be the perfect addition to any party or group activity you may need music for. You can create some playlists with your flatmates which you’ll be able to play in the future
8. Mugs and plates and pots and pans
Or just general kitchenware. You’re going to need to bring some kitchen goods with you. Here’s a short list of some essentials:
- Plates
- Bowls
- Cutlery
- Chopping board
- Knives
- Wooden spoons
- Spatula
- Frying pan
- Saucepan
- Bottle opener
- Tin opener
- Mugs
- Glasses
- Measuring jug
9. Toilet roll
Now, if you’re lucky your halls of residence may provide toilet roll for you, albeit not the greatest quality. But if you’ve got an ensuite 9/10 you’ll need to provide your own. Make sure you stock up before you go so you’re not caught short.
10. Clothes basket
You can’t just leave your dirty clothes on the floor! Get yourself a nice laundry basket to put in your room. Make sure you can also carry it to and from your room and where the washing machines are. Ikea shopping bags also work really well...
11. Playing cards
Playing cards are an important factor in university life. It’s a great way to break the ice when you first arrive and you’re getting to know your housemates, and if you’re having an evening in, it's something different to do! Make sure you learn some games before you go.
12. Scissors and Sellotape and general stationery
You’re probably going to need a bit of stationery before you head off to uni. Grab yourself some permanent markers (for putting your initials on your milk) some scissors, pens, paper etc.
13. Important documents
You’ll probably get a list of the important documents you’ll need to bring to university for your enrolment. However, it’s always good to have things on hand like your passport and birth certificate just in case you need them and aren’t close to home! Make sure you put them somewhere safe so you don’t lose them though.
14. Laptop/computer/games console
Although the library has computers, you may want your own laptop for working on assignments and watching movies in your room. You can also bring computers and game consoles for those quiet nights in! You may need to bring number 4 with you too.
15. Food
Make sure you bring some food essentials with you when you arrive. You’re gonna need to start buying your own food so here are some cupboard essentials to keep you stocked up:
- Salt
- Pepper
- Sugar
- Condiments like mayo and ketchup
- Garlic
- Pasta
- Rice
- Tinned soup
- Super Noodles
- Tea
- Coffee
- Eggs
- Cooking oil
Tasks for this week
- Start making a list of things you'll need to take with you.
- Ask your friends and family for help with packing and what you should take.
- Start having a big sort out!