All the thing I wish I packed and should have left at home
Hi everyone,
Packing for university can be stressful, especially if you don’t live nearby and the thought of leaving something important behind can be a worry. So I thought I would share with you my list of things I wish I had packed - of course everyone is different and there may be something else you end up buying when you get there, but this would be my list so I hope it helps.
1. Door hooks (temporary ones that you can hook over the door)
Although there is lots of storage in the halls here at Kingston, these are something I wished I had immediately just to help organize things like belts, bags and coats. They come in handy for everyday things you just need to grab like a dressing gown or towels.
2. Storage organisers
Similar to the last, things can get quite disorganised without drawer organisers or baskets. Especially under your bed and on shelves, there is lots of space so it just makes it easier to have things separated clearly rather than everything just thrown in together.
3. Umbrella
Speaks for itself really, this is the UK after all. Unfortunately, you probably end up buying one if you don’t bring one.
4. Photos, posters and drawing pins
I did bring a few photos but ended up printing more when I arrived and finding things in magazines to add to my noticeboard (don’t forget drawing pins for this). Decorations really make your room feel more like yours, so are important in my eyes.
5. Shoe rack
Potentially not necessary for everyone. However, this is something I bought after the first term from Argos. I just found it kept my shoes more organised than they were in the bottom of my wardrobe or on the floor.
6. Tupperware
You’ll probably end up with lots of leftovers at some point and batch cooking is the best way to spend less time cooking when you’re super busy - and it makes the most of the ingredients you buy so you’ll cut down on waste.
Now that you know what I wish I had brought here are some things that really aren’t needed, and you might be glad to know you really don’t need to bring.
1. Too much kitchenware
You really only need two plates, two glasses and two bowls. I ended up keeping the extra plates bowls and glasses I brought with me in my room and never getting them out. Remember, you’re sharing the
kitchen space so you may only get one cupboard to keep everything, including food in so be selective with what you bring.
2. Cleaning equipment
My halls came with a hoover, dustpan and brush, iron, mop and bin so make sure to check what is already provided before you move in.
3. Unnecessary equipment
Just be honest about what you’re really going to use. I brought a sewing machine with me, and I never touched it. I also know someone brought a printer, but Kingston has great facilities that you can use
Please share any tips you have and I hope this helps
-Grace (Kingston Rep)
Packing for university can be stressful, especially if you don’t live nearby and the thought of leaving something important behind can be a worry. So I thought I would share with you my list of things I wish I had packed - of course everyone is different and there may be something else you end up buying when you get there, but this would be my list so I hope it helps.
1. Door hooks (temporary ones that you can hook over the door)
Although there is lots of storage in the halls here at Kingston, these are something I wished I had immediately just to help organize things like belts, bags and coats. They come in handy for everyday things you just need to grab like a dressing gown or towels.
2. Storage organisers
Similar to the last, things can get quite disorganised without drawer organisers or baskets. Especially under your bed and on shelves, there is lots of space so it just makes it easier to have things separated clearly rather than everything just thrown in together.
3. Umbrella
Speaks for itself really, this is the UK after all. Unfortunately, you probably end up buying one if you don’t bring one.
4. Photos, posters and drawing pins
I did bring a few photos but ended up printing more when I arrived and finding things in magazines to add to my noticeboard (don’t forget drawing pins for this). Decorations really make your room feel more like yours, so are important in my eyes.
5. Shoe rack
Potentially not necessary for everyone. However, this is something I bought after the first term from Argos. I just found it kept my shoes more organised than they were in the bottom of my wardrobe or on the floor.
6. Tupperware
You’ll probably end up with lots of leftovers at some point and batch cooking is the best way to spend less time cooking when you’re super busy - and it makes the most of the ingredients you buy so you’ll cut down on waste.
Now that you know what I wish I had brought here are some things that really aren’t needed, and you might be glad to know you really don’t need to bring.
1. Too much kitchenware
You really only need two plates, two glasses and two bowls. I ended up keeping the extra plates bowls and glasses I brought with me in my room and never getting them out. Remember, you’re sharing the
kitchen space so you may only get one cupboard to keep everything, including food in so be selective with what you bring.
2. Cleaning equipment
My halls came with a hoover, dustpan and brush, iron, mop and bin so make sure to check what is already provided before you move in.
3. Unnecessary equipment
Just be honest about what you’re really going to use. I brought a sewing machine with me, and I never touched it. I also know someone brought a printer, but Kingston has great facilities that you can use
Please share any tips you have and I hope this helps
-Grace (Kingston Rep)
Reply 1
Hi @Kingston Grace,
This is a great thread! Just want to add some more of my own.
Some things You should remember:
Some things that I packed and didn't need were
Hope this helps!
Lottie, Graduate Advocate😃
This is a great thread! Just want to add some more of my own.
Some things You should remember:
1.
Clothes Drying Rack- washing clothes with circuit laundry is expensive so I saved some money by drying my clothes in my room.
2.
Extension leads- plug sockets aren't always in convenient places in student accommodation!
3.
A medical kit- Freshers flu is real so having some paracetamol ready means you don't have to go to the shops when you're not feeling great
4.
A fan- my room got quite warn so I ended up buying a fan to keep me cool but the noise was also helpful to block out some of the noise around my halls
1.
All my clothes- I had far too many clothes for how much storage I had even though I had quite a lot of storage. You might not need your summer clothes when you start in September so leave them t home and you can swap them out with your wintery clothes throughout the year.
2.
Fancy dress- It was really helpful for socials to have fancy dress that I already owned rather than having to buy more but I didn't use most of what I took with me. In second year I left it at home and if I needed something my mum would post it to me.
3.
Lots of stationary- I did most of my work on my laptop so didn't need all the highlighters and pens that I used in sixth form and didn't end up using most of what I took.
Lottie, Graduate Advocate😃
Reply 2
Original post
by Kingston GraceHi everyone,
Packing for university can be stressful, especially if you don’t live nearby and the thought of leaving something important behind can be a worry. So I thought I would share with you my list of things I wish I had packed - of course everyone is different and there may be something else you end up buying when you get there, but this would be my list so I hope it helps.
1. Door hooks (temporary ones that you can hook over the door)
Although there is lots of storage in the halls here at Kingston, these are something I wished I had immediately just to help organize things like belts, bags and coats. They come in handy for everyday things you just need to grab like a dressing gown or towels.
2. Storage organisers
Similar to the last, things can get quite disorganised without drawer organisers or baskets. Especially under your bed and on shelves, there is lots of space so it just makes it easier to have things separated clearly rather than everything just thrown in together.
3. Umbrella
Speaks for itself really, this is the UK after all. Unfortunately, you probably end up buying one if you don’t bring one.
4. Photos, posters and drawing pins
I did bring a few photos but ended up printing more when I arrived and finding things in magazines to add to my noticeboard (don’t forget drawing pins for this). Decorations really make your room feel more like yours, so are important in my eyes.
5. Shoe rack
Potentially not necessary for everyone. However, this is something I bought after the first term from Argos. I just found it kept my shoes more organised than they were in the bottom of my wardrobe or on the floor.
6. Tupperware
You’ll probably end up with lots of leftovers at some point and batch cooking is the best way to spend less time cooking when you’re super busy - and it makes the most of the ingredients you buy so you’ll cut down on waste.
Now that you know what I wish I had brought here are some things that really aren’t needed, and you might be glad to know you really don’t need to bring.
1. Too much kitchenware
You really only need two plates, two glasses and two bowls. I ended up keeping the extra plates bowls and glasses I brought with me in my room and never getting them out. Remember, you’re sharing the
kitchen space so you may only get one cupboard to keep everything, including food in so be selective with what you bring.
2. Cleaning equipment
My halls came with a hoover, dustpan and brush, iron, mop and bin so make sure to check what is already provided before you move in.
3. Unnecessary equipment
Just be honest about what you’re really going to use. I brought a sewing machine with me, and I never touched it. I also know someone brought a printer, but Kingston has great facilities that you can use
Please share any tips you have and I hope this helps
-Grace (Kingston Rep)
Packing for university can be stressful, especially if you don’t live nearby and the thought of leaving something important behind can be a worry. So I thought I would share with you my list of things I wish I had packed - of course everyone is different and there may be something else you end up buying when you get there, but this would be my list so I hope it helps.
1. Door hooks (temporary ones that you can hook over the door)
Although there is lots of storage in the halls here at Kingston, these are something I wished I had immediately just to help organize things like belts, bags and coats. They come in handy for everyday things you just need to grab like a dressing gown or towels.
2. Storage organisers
Similar to the last, things can get quite disorganised without drawer organisers or baskets. Especially under your bed and on shelves, there is lots of space so it just makes it easier to have things separated clearly rather than everything just thrown in together.
3. Umbrella
Speaks for itself really, this is the UK after all. Unfortunately, you probably end up buying one if you don’t bring one.
4. Photos, posters and drawing pins
I did bring a few photos but ended up printing more when I arrived and finding things in magazines to add to my noticeboard (don’t forget drawing pins for this). Decorations really make your room feel more like yours, so are important in my eyes.
5. Shoe rack
Potentially not necessary for everyone. However, this is something I bought after the first term from Argos. I just found it kept my shoes more organised than they were in the bottom of my wardrobe or on the floor.
6. Tupperware
You’ll probably end up with lots of leftovers at some point and batch cooking is the best way to spend less time cooking when you’re super busy - and it makes the most of the ingredients you buy so you’ll cut down on waste.
Now that you know what I wish I had brought here are some things that really aren’t needed, and you might be glad to know you really don’t need to bring.
1. Too much kitchenware
You really only need two plates, two glasses and two bowls. I ended up keeping the extra plates bowls and glasses I brought with me in my room and never getting them out. Remember, you’re sharing the
kitchen space so you may only get one cupboard to keep everything, including food in so be selective with what you bring.
2. Cleaning equipment
My halls came with a hoover, dustpan and brush, iron, mop and bin so make sure to check what is already provided before you move in.
3. Unnecessary equipment
Just be honest about what you’re really going to use. I brought a sewing machine with me, and I never touched it. I also know someone brought a printer, but Kingston has great facilities that you can use
Please share any tips you have and I hope this helps
-Grace (Kingston Rep)
Hey @Kingston Grace,
I fully agree with you on the 'too much kitchenware' point - when I came to Kingston, I brought a full cutlery set with me and have ultimately only used one or two pieces from it! I would also say that I brought far too many mugs. I have a tendency to collect mugs as souvenirs, so I brought four or five from home - however, I only use one regularly and the others sit in the back of my kitchen cupboard. 😅
Tupperware is fantastic, but if you don't have room in your bag to bring any, consider bringing some zip-lock bags instead! They're also great for freezing food/batch cooking and take up a lot less space.
Best of luck to any freshers this year!
Eve (Kingston Rep).
Reply 3
Hi @Kingston Grace
This is a great idea!
Here's some things I wish I had brought to university to begin with:
Similarly, there's lots of items I packed that I didn't use like kitchenware (Didn't use more than 2 dinner plates or mugs) and random items that I thought I needed (If you don't currently use them at home, you probably wont need them at university).
Hope this helps!
-Jasmine (Lancaster Student Ambassador)
This is a great idea!
Here's some things I wish I had brought to university to begin with:
•
Equipment related to any hobbies you want to continue at university (can be sports equipment, art and baking supplies ect.)
•
Crocs/sliders - to wear in the communal spaces of the flat
•
Storage containers
•
Posters/photos to decorate your room
•
Tupperware - I agree these are great for batch cooking for freezing.
•
Waterproof basket - to hold all of your toiletries in
Similarly, there's lots of items I packed that I didn't use like kitchenware (Didn't use more than 2 dinner plates or mugs) and random items that I thought I needed (If you don't currently use them at home, you probably wont need them at university).
Hope this helps!
-Jasmine (Lancaster Student Ambassador)
Reply 4
Original post
by Kingston GraceHi everyone,
Packing for university can be stressful, especially if you don’t live nearby and the thought of leaving something important behind can be a worry. So I thought I would share with you my list of things I wish I had packed - of course everyone is different and there may be something else you end up buying when you get there, but this would be my list so I hope it helps.
1. Door hooks (temporary ones that you can hook over the door)
Although there is lots of storage in the halls here at Kingston, these are something I wished I had immediately just to help organize things like belts, bags and coats. They come in handy for everyday things you just need to grab like a dressing gown or towels.
2. Storage organisers
Similar to the last, things can get quite disorganised without drawer organisers or baskets. Especially under your bed and on shelves, there is lots of space so it just makes it easier to have things separated clearly rather than everything just thrown in together.
3. Umbrella
Speaks for itself really, this is the UK after all. Unfortunately, you probably end up buying one if you don’t bring one.
4. Photos, posters and drawing pins
I did bring a few photos but ended up printing more when I arrived and finding things in magazines to add to my noticeboard (don’t forget drawing pins for this). Decorations really make your room feel more like yours, so are important in my eyes.
5. Shoe rack
Potentially not necessary for everyone. However, this is something I bought after the first term from Argos. I just found it kept my shoes more organised than they were in the bottom of my wardrobe or on the floor.
6. Tupperware
You’ll probably end up with lots of leftovers at some point and batch cooking is the best way to spend less time cooking when you’re super busy - and it makes the most of the ingredients you buy so you’ll cut down on waste.
Now that you know what I wish I had brought here are some things that really aren’t needed, and you might be glad to know you really don’t need to bring.
1. Too much kitchenware
You really only need two plates, two glasses and two bowls. I ended up keeping the extra plates bowls and glasses I brought with me in my room and never getting them out. Remember, you’re sharing the
kitchen space so you may only get one cupboard to keep everything, including food in so be selective with what you bring.
2. Cleaning equipment
My halls came with a hoover, dustpan and brush, iron, mop and bin so make sure to check what is already provided before you move in.
3. Unnecessary equipment
Just be honest about what you’re really going to use. I brought a sewing machine with me, and I never touched it. I also know someone brought a printer, but Kingston has great facilities that you can use
Please share any tips you have and I hope this helps
-Grace (Kingston Rep)
Packing for university can be stressful, especially if you don’t live nearby and the thought of leaving something important behind can be a worry. So I thought I would share with you my list of things I wish I had packed - of course everyone is different and there may be something else you end up buying when you get there, but this would be my list so I hope it helps.
1. Door hooks (temporary ones that you can hook over the door)
Although there is lots of storage in the halls here at Kingston, these are something I wished I had immediately just to help organize things like belts, bags and coats. They come in handy for everyday things you just need to grab like a dressing gown or towels.
2. Storage organisers
Similar to the last, things can get quite disorganised without drawer organisers or baskets. Especially under your bed and on shelves, there is lots of space so it just makes it easier to have things separated clearly rather than everything just thrown in together.
3. Umbrella
Speaks for itself really, this is the UK after all. Unfortunately, you probably end up buying one if you don’t bring one.
4. Photos, posters and drawing pins
I did bring a few photos but ended up printing more when I arrived and finding things in magazines to add to my noticeboard (don’t forget drawing pins for this). Decorations really make your room feel more like yours, so are important in my eyes.
5. Shoe rack
Potentially not necessary for everyone. However, this is something I bought after the first term from Argos. I just found it kept my shoes more organised than they were in the bottom of my wardrobe or on the floor.
6. Tupperware
You’ll probably end up with lots of leftovers at some point and batch cooking is the best way to spend less time cooking when you’re super busy - and it makes the most of the ingredients you buy so you’ll cut down on waste.
Now that you know what I wish I had brought here are some things that really aren’t needed, and you might be glad to know you really don’t need to bring.
1. Too much kitchenware
You really only need two plates, two glasses and two bowls. I ended up keeping the extra plates bowls and glasses I brought with me in my room and never getting them out. Remember, you’re sharing the
kitchen space so you may only get one cupboard to keep everything, including food in so be selective with what you bring.
2. Cleaning equipment
My halls came with a hoover, dustpan and brush, iron, mop and bin so make sure to check what is already provided before you move in.
3. Unnecessary equipment
Just be honest about what you’re really going to use. I brought a sewing machine with me, and I never touched it. I also know someone brought a printer, but Kingston has great facilities that you can use
Please share any tips you have and I hope this helps
-Grace (Kingston Rep)
Hey there 👋
My name is Siobhan and I’m a third year student at the University of Central Lancashire and this is a great question! I wish I had searched this up beforehand when starting uni. Here is a list of things to bring and not to bring to uni:
What to bring:
•
Important documents and forms of ID such as passports and prescriptions 📄
•
Laundry basket: most accommodations have the laundromats that you have to walk to, so get yourself a sturdy bag to use 🧺
•
Duvet and two pillows: I always recommend getting a double duvet even if you have a single bed so that you can get extra cosy at winter time! 🛌
•
Extension cords: these are a MUST in uni accommodations as there’s not always many sockets to use and you don’t realise how many things you need to plug in til you’re at uni ⚡️🔌
What NOT to bring:
•
Appliances such as toasters, kettles, irons etc as most accommodations will have this provided
•
All of your clothes: only bring clothes that are suitable for the weather as jumper and hoodies in the summer will take up A LOT of space 🧣🧤
•
Big pieces of furniture: you won’t need gaming chairs, standing mirrors and large rugs etc 🪑🪞
•
Too much stationary: you won’t need to bring big items such as printers as the library’s should have these available and they take up too much space. I would also say not to buy too many pens straight away as most uni’s do the majority of the work online 🖨️💻
These are just a few things that I recommend looking into when going to uni! I’ve attached a link to the UCAS website with other things that are recommended with what to bring to uni 🙂
https://www.ucas.com/money-and-student-life/student-life/starting-university-or-college/list-absolutely-everything-you-need-take-university-or-college
Siobhan (Student Ambassador for the University of Central Lancashire)
Reply 5
Hi all!
Some fantastic tips so far so thankyou!
The things I unfortunately forgot to bring were...
Hopefully this helps and acts as a warning to make sure you double check your packing, haha!
University of Bath
Some fantastic tips so far so thankyou!
The things I unfortunately forgot to bring were...
•
Keepy Cup. Luckily Bath have the Exchange Cup Scheme on campus where you can buy a keepy cup for £3 then swap it for a fresh one each time you buy a hot drink (with a discount) - but it was something I wish I'd had before I came!
•
Mood light (if you are allowed them!) The Quads accommodation at Bath come with mood lights, but this is not something generally provided. However the colour changing light I find calming and a good accompaniment to winding down in the evening.
•
A diary - not an academic one, a personal one. Sometimes it can very cathartic to write your thoughts down, draw stuff and make a few notes about what you've done each day/week. I unfortunately forgot my diary and so needed to pick it up when I went home!
Hopefully this helps and acts as a warning to make sure you double check your packing, haha!
University of Bath
(edited 8 months ago)
Reply 6
Original post
by Kingston GraceHi everyone,
Packing for university can be stressful, especially if you don’t live nearby and the thought of leaving something important behind can be a worry. So I thought I would share with you my list of things I wish I had packed - of course everyone is different and there may be something else you end up buying when you get there, but this would be my list so I hope it helps.
1. Door hooks (temporary ones that you can hook over the door)
Although there is lots of storage in the halls here at Kingston, these are something I wished I had immediately just to help organize things like belts, bags and coats. They come in handy for everyday things you just need to grab like a dressing gown or towels.
2. Storage organisers
Similar to the last, things can get quite disorganised without drawer organisers or baskets. Especially under your bed and on shelves, there is lots of space so it just makes it easier to have things separated clearly rather than everything just thrown in together.
3. Umbrella
Speaks for itself really, this is the UK after all. Unfortunately, you probably end up buying one if you don’t bring one.
4. Photos, posters and drawing pins
I did bring a few photos but ended up printing more when I arrived and finding things in magazines to add to my noticeboard (don’t forget drawing pins for this). Decorations really make your room feel more like yours, so are important in my eyes.
5. Shoe rack
Potentially not necessary for everyone. However, this is something I bought after the first term from Argos. I just found it kept my shoes more organised than they were in the bottom of my wardrobe or on the floor.
6. Tupperware
You’ll probably end up with lots of leftovers at some point and batch cooking is the best way to spend less time cooking when you’re super busy - and it makes the most of the ingredients you buy so you’ll cut down on waste.
Now that you know what I wish I had brought here are some things that really aren’t needed, and you might be glad to know you really don’t need to bring.
1. Too much kitchenware
You really only need two plates, two glasses and two bowls. I ended up keeping the extra plates bowls and glasses I brought with me in my room and never getting them out. Remember, you’re sharing the
kitchen space so you may only get one cupboard to keep everything, including food in so be selective with what you bring.
2. Cleaning equipment
My halls came with a hoover, dustpan and brush, iron, mop and bin so make sure to check what is already provided before you move in.
3. Unnecessary equipment
Just be honest about what you’re really going to use. I brought a sewing machine with me, and I never touched it. I also know someone brought a printer, but Kingston has great facilities that you can use
Please share any tips you have and I hope this helps
-Grace (Kingston Rep)
Packing for university can be stressful, especially if you don’t live nearby and the thought of leaving something important behind can be a worry. So I thought I would share with you my list of things I wish I had packed - of course everyone is different and there may be something else you end up buying when you get there, but this would be my list so I hope it helps.
1. Door hooks (temporary ones that you can hook over the door)
Although there is lots of storage in the halls here at Kingston, these are something I wished I had immediately just to help organize things like belts, bags and coats. They come in handy for everyday things you just need to grab like a dressing gown or towels.
2. Storage organisers
Similar to the last, things can get quite disorganised without drawer organisers or baskets. Especially under your bed and on shelves, there is lots of space so it just makes it easier to have things separated clearly rather than everything just thrown in together.
3. Umbrella
Speaks for itself really, this is the UK after all. Unfortunately, you probably end up buying one if you don’t bring one.
4. Photos, posters and drawing pins
I did bring a few photos but ended up printing more when I arrived and finding things in magazines to add to my noticeboard (don’t forget drawing pins for this). Decorations really make your room feel more like yours, so are important in my eyes.
5. Shoe rack
Potentially not necessary for everyone. However, this is something I bought after the first term from Argos. I just found it kept my shoes more organised than they were in the bottom of my wardrobe or on the floor.
6. Tupperware
You’ll probably end up with lots of leftovers at some point and batch cooking is the best way to spend less time cooking when you’re super busy - and it makes the most of the ingredients you buy so you’ll cut down on waste.
Now that you know what I wish I had brought here are some things that really aren’t needed, and you might be glad to know you really don’t need to bring.
1. Too much kitchenware
You really only need two plates, two glasses and two bowls. I ended up keeping the extra plates bowls and glasses I brought with me in my room and never getting them out. Remember, you’re sharing the
kitchen space so you may only get one cupboard to keep everything, including food in so be selective with what you bring.
2. Cleaning equipment
My halls came with a hoover, dustpan and brush, iron, mop and bin so make sure to check what is already provided before you move in.
3. Unnecessary equipment
Just be honest about what you’re really going to use. I brought a sewing machine with me, and I never touched it. I also know someone brought a printer, but Kingston has great facilities that you can use
Please share any tips you have and I hope this helps
-Grace (Kingston Rep)
Hi
This is a great thread thanks so much for creating it as I certainly left a few things at home that I needed when I first came to Uni.
Things to remember...
•
Extension cables in some student rooms, there just isn't enough plug sockets.
•
Wardrobe storage - this can be really effective if your wardrobe is small, as they can really help you to maximise the space
•
Enough food for the first few days, this can be particularly helpful, as it is just one less thing to do when you get to uni.
I hope this helps,
Matt
2nd Year Physiotherapy Student
Wrexham Uni reps
Reply 7
Hi everyone!
This is a great idea so I thought I would add some things of my own and also emphasise some of the things that I think are important!
You don't need:
I hope some of these help 🙂
Lucy -SHU student ambassador.
This is a great idea so I thought I would add some things of my own and also emphasise some of the things that I think are important!
•
Two towels and two duvet sets so you can use one while one is in the wash
•
Multiple tea towels as they will get dirty easily/get lost etc.
•
Extension leads
•
A lamp as the lighting can be too much or not enough, and you are not always allowed fairy lights
•
Storage boxes for under the bed if you have room (check before hand)
•
Hangers
•
Important documents - ID, student card, enrolment email etc
You don't need:
•
All of your A level/college notes. You may find some handy, but most will be covered when you start.
•
Big items such as printers etc as you can use them at uni
•
A door stop as you are not always allowed them
•
Candles - you won't be allowed them
•
Too many kitchen items. - if you don't use it at home you won't need it!
I hope some of these help 🙂
Lucy -SHU student ambassador.
Reply 8
Original post
by Kingston GraceHi everyone,
Packing for university can be stressful, especially if you don’t live nearby and the thought of leaving something important behind can be a worry. So I thought I would share with you my list of things I wish I had packed - of course everyone is different and there may be something else you end up buying when you get there, but this would be my list so I hope it helps.
1. Door hooks (temporary ones that you can hook over the door)
Although there is lots of storage in the halls here at Kingston, these are something I wished I had immediately just to help organize things like belts, bags and coats. They come in handy for everyday things you just need to grab like a dressing gown or towels.
2. Storage organisers
Similar to the last, things can get quite disorganised without drawer organisers or baskets. Especially under your bed and on shelves, there is lots of space so it just makes it easier to have things separated clearly rather than everything just thrown in together.
3. Umbrella
Speaks for itself really, this is the UK after all. Unfortunately, you probably end up buying one if you don’t bring one.
4. Photos, posters and drawing pins
I did bring a few photos but ended up printing more when I arrived and finding things in magazines to add to my noticeboard (don’t forget drawing pins for this). Decorations really make your room feel more like yours, so are important in my eyes.
5. Shoe rack
Potentially not necessary for everyone. However, this is something I bought after the first term from Argos. I just found it kept my shoes more organised than they were in the bottom of my wardrobe or on the floor.
6. Tupperware
You’ll probably end up with lots of leftovers at some point and batch cooking is the best way to spend less time cooking when you’re super busy - and it makes the most of the ingredients you buy so you’ll cut down on waste.
Now that you know what I wish I had brought here are some things that really aren’t needed, and you might be glad to know you really don’t need to bring.
1. Too much kitchenware
You really only need two plates, two glasses and two bowls. I ended up keeping the extra plates bowls and glasses I brought with me in my room and never getting them out. Remember, you’re sharing the
kitchen space so you may only get one cupboard to keep everything, including food in so be selective with what you bring.
2. Cleaning equipment
My halls came with a hoover, dustpan and brush, iron, mop and bin so make sure to check what is already provided before you move in.
3. Unnecessary equipment
Just be honest about what you’re really going to use. I brought a sewing machine with me, and I never touched it. I also know someone brought a printer, but Kingston has great facilities that you can use
Please share any tips you have and I hope this helps
-Grace (Kingston Rep)
Packing for university can be stressful, especially if you don’t live nearby and the thought of leaving something important behind can be a worry. So I thought I would share with you my list of things I wish I had packed - of course everyone is different and there may be something else you end up buying when you get there, but this would be my list so I hope it helps.
1. Door hooks (temporary ones that you can hook over the door)
Although there is lots of storage in the halls here at Kingston, these are something I wished I had immediately just to help organize things like belts, bags and coats. They come in handy for everyday things you just need to grab like a dressing gown or towels.
2. Storage organisers
Similar to the last, things can get quite disorganised without drawer organisers or baskets. Especially under your bed and on shelves, there is lots of space so it just makes it easier to have things separated clearly rather than everything just thrown in together.
3. Umbrella
Speaks for itself really, this is the UK after all. Unfortunately, you probably end up buying one if you don’t bring one.
4. Photos, posters and drawing pins
I did bring a few photos but ended up printing more when I arrived and finding things in magazines to add to my noticeboard (don’t forget drawing pins for this). Decorations really make your room feel more like yours, so are important in my eyes.
5. Shoe rack
Potentially not necessary for everyone. However, this is something I bought after the first term from Argos. I just found it kept my shoes more organised than they were in the bottom of my wardrobe or on the floor.
6. Tupperware
You’ll probably end up with lots of leftovers at some point and batch cooking is the best way to spend less time cooking when you’re super busy - and it makes the most of the ingredients you buy so you’ll cut down on waste.
Now that you know what I wish I had brought here are some things that really aren’t needed, and you might be glad to know you really don’t need to bring.
1. Too much kitchenware
You really only need two plates, two glasses and two bowls. I ended up keeping the extra plates bowls and glasses I brought with me in my room and never getting them out. Remember, you’re sharing the
kitchen space so you may only get one cupboard to keep everything, including food in so be selective with what you bring.
2. Cleaning equipment
My halls came with a hoover, dustpan and brush, iron, mop and bin so make sure to check what is already provided before you move in.
3. Unnecessary equipment
Just be honest about what you’re really going to use. I brought a sewing machine with me, and I never touched it. I also know someone brought a printer, but Kingston has great facilities that you can use
Please share any tips you have and I hope this helps
-Grace (Kingston Rep)
Hey @Kingston Grace
This is a great thread idea!
When it comes to underrated university essentials, here are my recommendations -
• Laundry Basket (with wheels preferably) - It will make it much easier to carry heavy laundry baskets to the laundry room and back. You can also use it to keep your laundry in one place and make your room more clean and organised.
• A small first aid kit - This is really important to have!
• Bathroom mats - Many accommodations don't provide bathroom mats, so I would recommend to get one if that's the case.
• Over-the-door Hooks - This was a big lifesaver for me! I would definitely recommend to carry some as you can use them to hang your towels, jackets, and bags.
• Reusable shopping bag - With the high plastic bag charge at grocery stores, I would recommend to keep a reusable shopping bag in your backpack for impromptu shopping trips.
It's a good idea to start with a basics and add more as you go along. Your needs might change over time, and you will gradually build up your collection of decor items and kitchen essentials.
I would recommend to talk to your accommodation and check what kitchen appliances they provide. This will help avoid overpacking or unnecessary shopping as many accommodations provide basic appliances like toasters, kettles, irons, etc. I'd also recommend to always keep an eye out for discounts and special offers! Many stores often offer huge discounts on university essentials.
I hope this helps!
All the best,
Akshita
(University of Southampton Student Rep)
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