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A Guide To Your First Uni Shop

Remember that it's not just a food shop.
Your first big university shop will probably feel full of possibility - you likely have some spare cash floating around since it's the start of term, and with your newfound independence you now have the ability to buy whatever you want, whenever you want. Although it can be tempting to splash out on some luxury items - good quality food, skincare, some new appliances - try to remember there's more to a weekly shop than just grocery items.

Here's a few commonly forgotten household items:
- washing up liquid
- sponges
- antibacterial surface cleaner
- baking paper/tinfoil
- laundry detergent
- basic first aid supplies (plasters/painkillers)
- shower/window/bathroom cleaner
- kitchen roll
- toilet roll

Take multiple trips if necessary!
Whilst doing ‘one big shop’ for all of your uni essentials can sound like a good idea, the truth is it may not be practical depending on your mode of transport. For example, if you’re anything like me and intend to primarily walk/use public transport to get around, you'll have to factor this into your shopping plans; bulky items such as toilet paper and drinks multipacks can be easily transported in a car, but may be too much to carry if you're walking home a distance. Make sure to also take into consideration the weight of each item: bottled drinks and cleaning supplies may not be physically bulky, but they can be heavy. There's no harm in doing multiple shops over the course of a few days if needs be - furthermore, consider focusing on different categories (e.g. groceries, cleaning, toiletries, homewares) for each shop to ensure your spending isn't getting off-track.

Focus on store cupboard essentials.
Your first big university shop will likely cost a lot more than your standard weekly shop as you'll need to stock up on store cupboard essentials - salt, spices, condiments, basic canned goods such as tinned tomatoes, beans, etc. Although most of these items don't tend to be that expensive in and of themselves, buying them all in go can be pricey, especially if you include baking essentials. Nonetheless, it'll save you the hassle of having to rush out to the shops frequently and can make putting together those last-minute meals much easier.

Hope this was helpful to any students who are currently settling into their new university life - best of luck with your shopping! :biggrin: