So, all your hard work has finally paid off, and you’ve gotten into university - HUGE congrats! Now comes the excitement of moving out and embracing everything student life has to offer. Whether you’re living in university halls or sharing a student house, there are a few must-have bits and bobs that will make your transition smoother, help you stay organised, and ensure you’re comfortable in your new home away from home. With our handy guide below, you’ll be ready to get moving and settled in no time!
While takeaways and microwave meals might seem appealing at first, cooking your own food is healthier and much cheaper in the long run - trust us, your wallet (or student loan) will thank you! Cooking is a great skill to have and will keep you fueled and fed for whatever the day has in store. Stock your new kitchen with basic cooking tools like saucepans, frying pans, chopping boards, and cooking knives. You’ll also need plates, bowls, mugs, and cutlery, or you might end up eating straight from the pan (we’ve all been there!)
Before you move in, check if your accommodation has a kettle, toaster, or microwave. If not, consider bringing your own. Don’t forget food containers for leftovers, a can opener, a bottle opener, and oven gloves. And with these basic kitchen staples, you’ll be cooking up a storm in no time!
Whilst it sounds a bit boring, staying on top of your chores is essential for keeping things clean, organised and tidy (you’ll thank us later). Keeping your living space clean is essential for a happy and healthy environment, and with the right supplies, it's easier than you think. Stock up on washing-up liquid, dish sponges, tea towels, and multi-surface cleaner. You’ll also need laundry detergent and fabric softener to keep your clothes fresh and fits looking fly.
A laundry basket will keep your dirty clothes in one place (and prevent the infamous floor-drobe), and a clothes airer is useful for drying without a tumble dryer. Bring a dustpan and brush, mop or broom, and make sure you have bin bags and a rubbish bin to hand to avoid the dreaded rubbish heaps piling up.
A great night’s sleep is fundamental for your physical and mental wellbeing - can't hit the books (or pub) if you’re too burnt out to function. Turning your bedroom into your own personal sanctuary is super easy with a few basic essentials. Pack bed sheets, a duvet, pillowcases, and at least one extra blanket for extra cosy vibes. A mattress protector and mattress topper can make your bed much more comfortable and help you get a great night's sleep - ready for those 9am lectures.
To create a relaxing bedroom, bring cushions, a bedside lamp, and possibly a small rug to really make the space your own and amp up the chill vibes. Earplugs or an eye mask are fab if you're a light sleeper, especially if your halls get a bit noisy.
Comfort and hygiene are fundamental, but feeling your best and being ready to take on the day are just as important! You’ll need all your daily toiletries, such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, shower gel, shampoo, conditioner, razors, and deodorant. And don’t forget hairbrushes, sanitary products, skincare items, and any prescription medication you take regularly.
If your bathroom is shared, a shower caddy or basket is useful to carry your items back and forth (no juggling act required) and stops any accidental mix-ups. Bring at least two bath towels, a hand towel, face cloths, toilet roll, and a toilet brush. A bath mat prevents slips and keeps the floor clean and dry after a shower or bath. There are plenty of fun designs to choose from, giving your space a pop of personality, and machine-washable options for added convenience.
Your student room should feel like home, a place you can relax, unwind and show off to friends. Bringing personal touches like photos, fairy lights, posters, wall art, or anything that makes the space feel more individual. Use hooks, Blu Tack, or push pins to decorate safely and within your accommodation rules (you’ll definitely be wanting that deposit back!)
To stay organised and keep on top of things, bring storage boxes, under-bed storage, or a set of mini drawers to keep clutter to a minimum. A desk lamp, a mirror, and plenty of coat hangers are also essentials to making your bedroom more homely. Small touches like a clock or decorative plant can make a big difference and give your space that real Insta-worthy wow factor.
Whilst there are a ton of exciting things going on at university - from freshers, socials and societies - the main reason you’re there is to study! So it pays to be prepared and make sure you’re fully stocked up for lectures, library study sessions or late-night cramming before exams. Pack notebooks, pens, highlighters, folders, and sticky notes. A planner or academic diary will help you keep track of assignments, deadlines and even social events like summer ball!
Keep your desk organised with a desk tidy, magazine holder, and maybe a pinboard (great for photos too!) Keep your study space stocked with all the essentials like paper, a stapler, paperclips, and scissors. If you’re planning on pulling the occasional all-nighter, don’t forget a mug, coffee or tea, and a stash of snacks to help you burn the midnight oil.
Technology plays a mega role in university life, from studying to sorting out bills and the occasional Netflix binge. A reliable laptop or tablet is a must for coursework, lectures, and online learning - no one wants to read through hundreds of pages of scambled handwritten notes. Don’t forget your chargers and consider bringing a multi-socket extension lead so you're always charged up and ready to go.
Other useful tech includes noise-cancelling headphones for focusing or simply blocking out the world whilst listening to your favourite guitar solo. A USB flash drive or external hard drive for backups, and a Bluetooth speaker for downtime (or party time). A printer is an absolute game-changer during exam season, studying or while writing your dissertation - avoid the queues and the stress.
Moving to university is a huge milestone, but with a little preparation and planning, you'll be settled in no time! Pack smart by checking what your accommodation already provides, then make a list of the essentials you’ll actually need. And don’t forget the fun part - adding your own touches to make your new room feel cosy, personal, and a bit more like home to keep away those homesick blues.
For more university essentials, visit our Student Shop and get everything sorted before move-in day.
