If you’re setting off for university for the first time this September, you’re probably starting to think about what you’re going to take with you – and what, if anything, you can safely leave behind.
Of course, much of it will come down to personal taste (and how much space there is in the boot of your parents’ car). But to help you make up your mind, we’ve listed some of the absolute essentials below, along with some other common items that the efficient packer might want to think twice about.
ESSENTIALS
1. Laptop
Probably the cheapest and most convenient option, although any kind of computer would do. It’s worth shopping around to ensure you get the right model for the job and worth investing in a couple of USB sticks and an external hard drive (the potential consequences of not backing up your dissertation just don’t bear thinking about).
2. Bedding
Two sets if you want to limit your laundry trips.
3. Towels
Make sure you have a few in your wardrobe so you have a spare once yours goes to laundry.
4. Your best clothes…
Because there’ll be lots of parties and social events where you’ll want to dress to impress, especially during fresher’s week.
5. …and your past-their-best clothes
Because there’s also lots of relaxing to be done. And your favourite jumper which you’ve had for years might be a great source of comfort in the early weeks.
6. Day bag
A small rucksack or similar to carry notes and textbooks to and from lectures etc.
7. Winter stuff
Thick coat. Hat and gloves. Slippers. Dressing gown. Etc. The sun may be shining when you set off up the motorway. But before you know it, it’ll be -1.
8. Wash bag and toiletries
To ensure a steady supply of essentials. Also handy to keep your things packed away if you’ll have a shared bathroom.
9. Personal touches
Everyone likes having a few familiar things around their room to make it feel like home. Posters? Family photographs? Your old bedside lamp? Don’t be afraid to bring your favourite teddy bear along with you, many students will be in the same boat.
NICE-TO-HAVES
1. Crockery, cutlery and kitchen stuff
There is likely to be lots of communal stuff you can use if your accommodation is self-catering. (And if it isn’t, there won’t be much you can use anyway.) Probably worth checking out what’s already there before you start splashing out on garlic crushers, colanders etc.
2. Penknife/torch/bottle opener/pocket screwdriver
Lots of students manage to live without these basic tools – but only because there’s always somebody down the corridor they can borrow them off. The question is: do you want to be that person?
3. Toastie maker
Handy for when you want a quick snack and your weekly shop hasn’t arrived yet. Could also be a hit among your new flatmates too.
BEST-NOTS
1. TV
While you may have freetime during your first year, a TV will could become a distraction and it will also take up far too much space in your room. Besides, you can catch up with all your favourite programmes on your laptop.
2. Printer
Having your own could be handy, however the ink can be expensive. Campuses do have lots of communal printers you can use so you will be able to print when you need to.
3. Drum kit/guitar amp/massive sound system
Aside from the space issue, you’ll find that your flatmates could be on different schedules to you. So playing music until the early hours, may not go down too well.
Interested in gaining valuable work experience while you’re at university? Then why not check out our internship opportunities today.
