What to take to university

Heading to university is an exciting milestone, but packing can be overwhelming. This comprehensive guide will help you ensure you have everything you need

University checklist

Start with a thorough list and check items off as you pack. Remember to write down everything you use daily over a week to help you decide what to bring to university. This method will help you identify things you may have overlooked.

While prioritising functional items, don't forget to include comforting or sentimental belongings from home.

To give you a head start put these items on your list:

• laptop and charger
• extension lead
• socket adaptor (for international students)
• stationery
• bedding including a comfortable pillow, sheets and a duvet
• coat hangers
• laundry basket or bag, detergent, a drying rack and fabric softener
• cleaning supplies
• medication
• a list of important numbers, in case you lose your mobile phone
• bathroom essentials including towels and a shower caddy to carry toiletries to shared bathrooms.

Don't forget to bring the necessary documentation with you, in either physical or digital form. Specific requirements may vary depending on your university and its registration process, so it's important to check in advance. In general, bring:

• your university acceptance letter
• accommodation paperwork
• student finance documents
• valid ID (passport or driver's license)
• passport photographs
• a document or letter with your address for GP registration
• copies of any prescriptions you'll need.

Remember that forgetting items is not a catastrophe. Most things can be purchased from nearby shops or retrieved from home later.

Home comforts and room practicalities

Most students spend the first year of their studies in student accommodation. You'll spend a fair amount of time in your room resting and studying, so it's important to ensure this space is somewhere you feel at ease.

Decorate with photos of family and friends, posters, or your favourite bedding and cushions. You can bring sentimental possessions, but bear in mind that your student room may be smaller than your bedroom at home. Take a look at your university's website to find out how much space you'll have.

Most accommodations come equipped with basic furniture like a bed, desk, wardrobe, and chair. To save space, avoid packing unnecessary items. Practical additions for your room could include:

• storage boxes - wardrobes are often small, so these can be useful for keeping your space organised.
• desk lamp and fan - a desk lamp will help you study at night, and a fan can be helpful in hot weather.
• a TV - a small TV can be a great way to unwind, but remember you'll need a license.
• entertainment options - music speakers, a games console, or even a small instrument can personalise your space.
• drawing pins - great for putting up photos or posters and making your room feel like home.

Your room will be your sanctuary from busy university life, but it's also a great place to bond with your flatmates, especially during freshers' week. Consider packing some icebreakers, like a board game or a pack of cards. Having a couple of spare mugs and some biscuits on hand is also a thoughtful touch.

Kitchen equipment

Most halls are well-equipped with kitchen appliances. Upon arrival, check what's available and discuss splitting the cost of any missing items with your roommates to avoid buying duplicates.

Be sure to review the housing regulations, as some accommodations don't allow certain appliances like rice cookers or deep fat fryers. Ensure that electrical items have undergone PAT testing or can be proven to be less than two years old.

Some universities may offer the option to pre-order bedding and kitchen sets, which will typically be in your room upon arrival.

Due to limited kitchen space, carefully consider each item and its practicality. In general, you'll need:

• plates, bowls (microwavable ones are a good idea) and cutlery
• glasses and mugs
• cooking knives and a chopping board
• saucepans and a frying pan
• baking tray
• corkscrew and bottle opener
• tin opener
• utensils such as a vegetable peeler, grater, ladle, spatula
• measuring jug
• cling film and tin foil
• Tupperware
• tea towels and dish cloths
• bin bags
• student recipe book.

To prevent any confusion about ownership, label your own kitchen equipment.

Study essentials

You'll need to bring or buy your own stationery, including:

• pens, pencils and highlighters
• lever arch files
• A4 file paper
• ruler
• eraser
• stapler
• scissors
• hole punch
• diary/personal organiser
• notebooks
• Post-it notes.

Don't panic if you forget any of these essentials. Most universities have on-campus shops or libraries that sell common items like notebooks, pens, and toiletries.

Electrical items

Having your own laptop can simplify your work and studies, especially when library resources are in high demand. It's an investment that enables you to take your learning anywhere and work on the go. Additionally, it eliminates the need to bring a TV since you can watch your favourite shows online.

Familiarise yourself with the rules regarding electrical items. Common things like hair dryers, and game consoles are generally allowed, but others such as electric blankets and heaters may be considered fire hazards.

For a more reliable internet connection, consider purchasing an Ethernet cable. This cable connects your laptop to a modem or router to provide a stable internet connection. A portable hard drive is also useful for backing up your work, and it doesn't take up much space in your bag.

Make sure you pack all the chargers you need. An extension cable can also be a lifesaver, so consider bringing one.

What you won't need

You won't need to make a trip to IKEA because essential furniture will be provided in halls. Most smartphones are also full of apps and organisational tools, so items like a diary or calculator may not be necessary.

You can get by without:

• kitchen equipment - such as a fridge, freezer, and kettle.
• a printer - you can likely use one at your university library.
• your car - parking spaces may be limited, and it can be an unnecessary cost.
• suitcases - use boxes instead as they are easier to keep.
• old study books - reading lists will be provided at the start of the term.
• pets - most student accommodations do not allow pets, including goldfish.

Keep in mind that these 'what to take' lists are a helpful starting point. Be sure to choose the items that best suit your needs.

Transporting your belongings

When packing for university, divide your belongings into manageable portions. While there may be trolleys and lifts available, moving day is busy so aids like these may be taken or full and you might end up having to carry your things upstairs. It’s also a good idea to have a couple of helpers with you.

Make sure to check whether you need to book an arrival slot and find out how many people can assist you with moving in. Some universities limit the number of people you can bring with you.

Usually, parents, family members, and friends are the ones who will help you move. However, there are student baggage shipping services that, for a fee, deliver your belongings to your student accommodation in time for your arrival. The cost for this service might be based on the number of boxes you have. For example, Student Storage Box charges £29.47 per box, based on three standard boxes (of up to 30kg).

Keeping your valuables safe

Starting university is exciting. You'll make new friends, explore new places, and gain new experiences. But while you're settling in, it's important to be mindful of your belongings, especially if you're living with roommates.

Here's how to keep your items safe:

• Always lock your room, even if you'll only be away for a short while.
• Don't let anyone you don't know into your room, and never leave them alone if you do.
• Always close your windows when you leave.
• If your room faces a public area, keep your curtains closed when you're out.
• Secure valuables in drawers or cupboards.
• Never share or lend your access cards. Keep them secure.
• Check your university's insurance policy. If it doesn't cover your needs, consider additional coverage.
• Keep important documents secure - store copies of contents insurance documents and warranties in a fireproof metal security box. This ensures they'll be protected even in case of a fire.

It's also important to identify your support network and know who to contact if you face an issue. Student support and residential services are available to address university-related concerns. Your accommodation wardens can help navigate issues with flatmates, offer guidance on residence matters, or provide pastoral care if you're feeling homesick. For more information, see where to find help at university.

You should also maintain a backup contact list - create a physical list with important contact details separate from your phone. This could include family, friends, your bank or card provider, mobile network, and the university's student support service. This way, even if you lose your phone, you'll still have access to critical contacts.

Find out more

• Take a look at our top 10 things to do before starting university.
• Discover ways to save money as a student.