What should I take to uni with me?
Hi all!
So I’m (hopefully) set to start uni in Sept and I’ll be moving away from home. As the title says- what should I take with me? What should my packing list include?
I’ve seen a lot of mixed lists and nonnegotiable items online and was hoping to get a different perspective.
My original plan was to take the essentials (things I’d use as soon as I get there) and then buy anything else I need when I get the time.
Any and all help is appreciated.
Thanks a lot 🤍
So I’m (hopefully) set to start uni in Sept and I’ll be moving away from home. As the title says- what should I take with me? What should my packing list include?
I’ve seen a lot of mixed lists and nonnegotiable items online and was hoping to get a different perspective.
My original plan was to take the essentials (things I’d use as soon as I get there) and then buy anything else I need when I get the time.
Any and all help is appreciated.
Thanks a lot 🤍
Reply 1
I'll start.
Laptop/Ipad/Tablet plus 2nd monitor
Notebooks, A4 pad and a pencil case of the usual bits and bobs, including a scientific calculator of the complexity suitable for your course
Water bottle
Lunch box/insulated lunch bag
Backpack or other bag of a size large enough to contain all of the above +/- a sizeable textbook from the library if needed
Raincoat plus backpack cover for the above in case you have a commute or walk from your residence to campus or wherever teaching is occurring.
The above should take care of your day to day studying/teaching needs just for starters.
Laptop/Ipad/Tablet plus 2nd monitor
Notebooks, A4 pad and a pencil case of the usual bits and bobs, including a scientific calculator of the complexity suitable for your course
Water bottle
Lunch box/insulated lunch bag
Backpack or other bag of a size large enough to contain all of the above +/- a sizeable textbook from the library if needed
Raincoat plus backpack cover for the above in case you have a commute or walk from your residence to campus or wherever teaching is occurring.
The above should take care of your day to day studying/teaching needs just for starters.
Reply 2
In general take as little as possible, you will pick up stuff as you go.
But 2 weeks worth of clothes including casual stuff, couple smarter outfits, sports/athletic stuff & maybe a few fun ones like fancy dress if you have any
Basic bathroom supplies, hygiene & cleaning stuff can be bought on arrival so just basics to start with
Bedding & bed room stuff: 2 x bedding, lots of hangers, clever storage stuff (under bed boxes, door hanger etc.), but other than this as minimal as possible
Academic stuff: computer (laptop), if you want an extra monitor, a decent bag, and essentials (notepads, pens, course specific items…)
Kitchen: If you’re self - catered you need some basic (very cheap) set of instruments, feel free to buy most of it on arrival as well, as you can normally share with your flat, and it will all get lost / stolen / broken so really don’t get nice stuff. If you’re catered then just some a very basic kit with plates / couple glasses etc.
But 2 weeks worth of clothes including casual stuff, couple smarter outfits, sports/athletic stuff & maybe a few fun ones like fancy dress if you have any
Basic bathroom supplies, hygiene & cleaning stuff can be bought on arrival so just basics to start with
Bedding & bed room stuff: 2 x bedding, lots of hangers, clever storage stuff (under bed boxes, door hanger etc.), but other than this as minimal as possible
Academic stuff: computer (laptop), if you want an extra monitor, a decent bag, and essentials (notepads, pens, course specific items…)
Kitchen: If you’re self - catered you need some basic (very cheap) set of instruments, feel free to buy most of it on arrival as well, as you can normally share with your flat, and it will all get lost / stolen / broken so really don’t get nice stuff. If you’re catered then just some a very basic kit with plates / couple glasses etc.
Reply 3
As small thing which is always useful to have is the following;
1. A USB to put on your keys (useful for carrying large files and/or watching films on the big screen on campus as I did)!
2. A bottle opener on your keys
3. A dehumidifier (I bought one from B&M and it lasted me years), I would recommend an electric one as the refill ones, the refills are EXPENSIVE. Also, before anyone says “leave the window open”, try doing that after you’ve had a shower, no drier and also drying your clothes… particularly in peak winter.
1. A USB to put on your keys (useful for carrying large files and/or watching films on the big screen on campus as I did)!
2. A bottle opener on your keys
3. A dehumidifier (I bought one from B&M and it lasted me years), I would recommend an electric one as the refill ones, the refills are EXPENSIVE. Also, before anyone says “leave the window open”, try doing that after you’ve had a shower, no drier and also drying your clothes… particularly in peak winter.
(edited 9 months ago)
Reply 4
Also, a desk fan. Absolute lifesaver at times! Would recommend buying in peak winter though (much cheaper)!
Also, to speed up cooking, a microwave vegetable steamer. Why boil your veg for 8 mins when you can steam them and not wait for the water to boil. 😐
This saved me so much time…
Also, to speed up cooking, a microwave vegetable steamer. Why boil your veg for 8 mins when you can steam them and not wait for the water to boil. 😐
This saved me so much time…
Reply 5
Original post
by AnonymousHi all!
So I’m (hopefully) set to start uni in Sept and I’ll be moving away from home. As the title says- what should I take with me? What should my packing list include?
I’ve seen a lot of mixed lists and nonnegotiable items online and was hoping to get a different perspective.
My original plan was to take the essentials (things I’d use as soon as I get there) and then buy anything else I need when I get the time.
Any and all help is appreciated.
Thanks a lot 🤍
So I’m (hopefully) set to start uni in Sept and I’ll be moving away from home. As the title says- what should I take with me? What should my packing list include?
I’ve seen a lot of mixed lists and nonnegotiable items online and was hoping to get a different perspective.
My original plan was to take the essentials (things I’d use as soon as I get there) and then buy anything else I need when I get the time.
Any and all help is appreciated.
Thanks a lot 🤍
Hi Anon,
Here's a few more ideas of what to take:
•
Equipment related to any hobbies you want to continue at university, could be sports equipment, baking or a music instrument
•
Crocs/Sliders for the communal areas of your flat
•
Over the door hangers are great for storing coats
•
Shower caddy - if you have a shared bathroom, somewhere to keep all of your toiletries.
•
Pictures/posters to decorate your room
•
Extension leads
-Jasmine (Lancaster Student Ambassador)
Reply 6
Original post
by AnonymousHi all!
So I’m (hopefully) set to start uni in Sept and I’ll be moving away from home. As the title says- what should I take with me? What should my packing list include?
I’ve seen a lot of mixed lists and nonnegotiable items online and was hoping to get a different perspective.
My original plan was to take the essentials (things I’d use as soon as I get there) and then buy anything else I need when I get the time.
Any and all help is appreciated.
Thanks a lot 🤍
So I’m (hopefully) set to start uni in Sept and I’ll be moving away from home. As the title says- what should I take with me? What should my packing list include?
I’ve seen a lot of mixed lists and nonnegotiable items online and was hoping to get a different perspective.
My original plan was to take the essentials (things I’d use as soon as I get there) and then buy anything else I need when I get the time.
Any and all help is appreciated.
Thanks a lot 🤍
Hi there,
Congratulations on starting your university journey so soon! 🎉
Your plan sounds great! 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. To start with, I think the important things are clothes, shoes, stationery, laptop, bedding, towels, basic decor items, cutlery, plates, bowls, and a pan.
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.
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.
I hope this helps!
All the best,
Akshita
(University of Southampton Student Rep)
Reply 7
Original post
by AnonymousHi all!
So I’m (hopefully) set to start uni in Sept and I’ll be moving away from home. As the title says- what should I take with me? What should my packing list include?
I’ve seen a lot of mixed lists and nonnegotiable items online and was hoping to get a different perspective.
My original plan was to take the essentials (things I’d use as soon as I get there) and then buy anything else I need when I get the time.
Any and all help is appreciated.
Thanks a lot 🤍
So I’m (hopefully) set to start uni in Sept and I’ll be moving away from home. As the title says- what should I take with me? What should my packing list include?
I’ve seen a lot of mixed lists and nonnegotiable items online and was hoping to get a different perspective.
My original plan was to take the essentials (things I’d use as soon as I get there) and then buy anything else I need when I get the time.
Any and all help is appreciated.
Thanks a lot 🤍
Hi there!
One of my favourite purchases for uni has been my shopping trolley! I got mine from my local market and it goes with me everywhere! I can fit my weekly shop in there and no more back and arm pain from carrying all my bags.
The perfect investment! You can probably find one when you get to uni though as they can be a bit awkward to pack.
All the best with your move! 🙂
Emily
Student Rep at BCU
Reply 8
Always, always, always cheap plastic flipflops/sliders you can wear if your stay involves a communal shower.
Reply 9
Original post
by AnonymousHi all!
So I’m (hopefully) set to start uni in Sept and I’ll be moving away from home. As the title says- what should I take with me? What should my packing list include?
I’ve seen a lot of mixed lists and nonnegotiable items online and was hoping to get a different perspective.
My original plan was to take the essentials (things I’d use as soon as I get there) and then buy anything else I need when I get the time.
Any and all help is appreciated.
Thanks a lot 🤍
So I’m (hopefully) set to start uni in Sept and I’ll be moving away from home. As the title says- what should I take with me? What should my packing list include?
I’ve seen a lot of mixed lists and nonnegotiable items online and was hoping to get a different perspective.
My original plan was to take the essentials (things I’d use as soon as I get there) and then buy anything else I need when I get the time.
Any and all help is appreciated.
Thanks a lot 🤍
Hi There,
Starting at university and beginning your learning journey is an exciting next step, which comes with a lot of necessary preparation for you to carry out before your first day.
Study materials
Learning is at the heart of university and you should make sure that you’re equipped with the tools necessary for you to succeed in your studies.
Notebook- a notebook is a useful item to bring along to lectures and events, in case you need to jot something important down.
Stationary- pens, pencils, and highlighters will be your best friends when annotating key documents, organising your workload as well as when taking general notes.
Laptop- a laptop is a great item, providing you with independent study. Something to note is that you will have access to computers and laptops on campus, if you find yourself needing to use the university's facilities.
Folder- a folder for important documents, kept in a safe place, can help you keep track of the things you need but don’t use every day. You will thank yourself later for being organised from the beginning.
Bedroom
You may be in student accommodation on campus or living elsewhere in the city, either way, it’s important to bring these bedroom items with you to make Wrexham your home away from home.
Duvet, duvet cover, sheets, pillows and a blanket- having a cosy bed to return to after a long day of learning will do wonders for your comfort and productivity. Our why sleep is important for student mental health and wellbeing blog illustrates how important sleep is for your studying and productivity, and so having a comfortable place to rest your head is a key factor in getting the best sleep possible.
Decorations- Posters, pictures of your family and friends, fairy lights and knick-knacks bring a room to life. Surrounding yourself with personal items, relating to your interests or your hometown, is a great way of combatting homesickness and can even be a conversation starter when you first get to your accommodation.
Practical items- clothing, shoes, hangers, IDs, chargers, a lamp, a speaker and bags (for nights out, days at uni and for food shopping), are items that may seem obvious but are sometimes forgotten. A washing basket, clothes horse or clothes airer is an extra investment we would recommend for you to go for to make sure your clothes are kept nice and fresh – rather than them hanging on a chair or strewn across the bedroom floor!
Bathroom and cleaning
It’s easy to get caught up with the fun items to pack for university, but there are more than a few things you should be bringing with you to keep your space clean and to keep yourself healthy.
Medicine- you should bring any necessary medicine with you on top of cold and flu medicine, plasters and antiseptic. Fresher’s flu is a real thing, so make sure to bring the paracetamol!
Cleaning supplies- bleach, multi-surface spray or wipes, fairy liquid and sponges will become your saviours. You may be in shared accommodation or by yourself, but it’s always important to have these items which you can use in the bathroom and the kitchen.
Towels- Don’t forget a hand towel as well!
Loo rolls- A quilted toilet role goes a long way.
Toothbrush- toothpaste to go along with it and some mouth wash.
Skin products- face wash, cleansers and moisturisers can add a bit of luxury to your daily routine.
Kitchen
You might be a pro-chef or a frozen food expert, regardless of which you identify as, there are some essential utensils and kitchen tools to help you with your cooking efforts.
Glassware and mugs- bring a few glasses of various sizes, along with a mug. We all have a “favourite” or “special” mug, but maybe opt for one you’re not too emotionally attached to. University life can sometimes be a bit hazardous when fragile items like beloved fun mugs are involved.
Crockery- plates and bowls are a must. We recommend one big bowl for mixing or popcorn as well to enjoy those social movie nights in.
Utensils- knives, forks, chopping knives, chopping boards, wooden spoons, spatulas, teaspoons and tablespoons are all the utensils you should need. If you are partial to some baking, be sure to bring those extra little bits for making cupcakes, cookies or whatever you need for your “signature bake”.
Tupperware- batch cooking can be a really good way of saving some money when preparing your food for the week. Make sure to check out our cost of living page for more tips on how to save some money at WU.
Cupboard essentials- you should bring things that have a long shelf life like teabags, coffee, tins of tomatoes or beans, pasta, rice and spices to prep you for cooking with your fresh food.
Extras- it’s always useful to have bin bags, cling film and foil on hand in a kitchen. These items are definitely the ones you think you’ll never run out of but they disappear quicker than you could have imagined.
I hope this helps,
Matt
Wrexham Uni Reps
Reply 10
Also, if I may suggest one more thing. USE E-BOOKS.
No joke but physical books are heavy and take up so much room… from my experience at UWE, the library effectively went completely digital (I couldn’t even give my books away to them at the end of the year).
No joke but physical books are heavy and take up so much room… from my experience at UWE, the library effectively went completely digital (I couldn’t even give my books away to them at the end of the year).
Reply 11
Original post
by AnonymousHi all!
So I’m (hopefully) set to start uni in Sept and I’ll be moving away from home. As the title says- what should I take with me? What should my packing list include?
I’ve seen a lot of mixed lists and nonnegotiable items online and was hoping to get a different perspective.
My original plan was to take the essentials (things I’d use as soon as I get there) and then buy anything else I need when I get the time.
Any and all help is appreciated.
Thanks a lot 🤍
So I’m (hopefully) set to start uni in Sept and I’ll be moving away from home. As the title says- what should I take with me? What should my packing list include?
I’ve seen a lot of mixed lists and nonnegotiable items online and was hoping to get a different perspective.
My original plan was to take the essentials (things I’d use as soon as I get there) and then buy anything else I need when I get the time.
Any and all help is appreciated.
Thanks a lot 🤍
Hi there,
I thought I would also respond to this, as like you said having a range of perspectives is helpful!
Here are some things I would say were helpful for me at uni:
•
Two towels and two sets of bedding if you can. I know its more of a pain to store it, but if you can find some that aren't too expensive, it really helped me out if I didn't have time to wash and dry things in the same day! The dryers can be expensive at Uni so I usually just dried things in my room and sometimes it took little bit longer.
•
An airer/clothes horse. Again the dryers can be expensive in halls so this is a good thing to bring with you.
•
Hangers!
•
Storage boxes if you have room under your bed are great too as you may not have lots of storage in your room.
•
Extension leads as your plugs may not be where you need them to be.
Things you don't need:
•
Lots of textbooks. Your Uni will usually have books online as part of the e-library, so wait until you get to uni to get any of these if you need any.
•
Big appliances like a printer, toaster kettle etc. Your flat should come with the kitchen things and yo can use the printer at Uni.
•
Door stop as you might not be allowed it.
•
Candles as you won't be allowed them.
I hope some of this helps,
Lucy -SHU student ambassador.
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