What to take to university

Starting university is a major milestone, but deciding what to pack can feel overwhelming. Whether you're heading to shared halls or a student flat, this guide breaks down everything you need

University packing checklist

Start by listing everything you use regularly throughout the week - whether in a notebook or your phone's notes app, whichever is easiest for you to access and update. This will help you identify essential items you might otherwise overlook.

While practicality is important, don't underestimate the value of a few personal or sentimental touches. Creating a space that feels like home can make a big difference, especially in those first few weeks.

 Some essentials to have ready for moving day include:

• a basic first aid kit (painkillers, cold and flu remedies)
• any prescriptions or regular medication
• cleaning essentials like cloths, sprays, and bin bags
• phone chargers
• a small toolkit (screwdriver, scissors and tape) for assembling furniture and doing fixes.

'Medicine is something students often forget - you may not want to leave your room when you're sick, so arrive prepared with pain relief and vitamins,' recommends Gar Yee Chim, psychology student at the University of Reading.

Remember, these 'what to take' lists are simply a starting point - pack what suits your individual needs and lifestyle.

Important documents

You'll need some essential paperwork for university registration, opening bank accounts, and accessing health services.

'It’s easy to overlook things like your National Insurance number - but this is crucial for finding part-time work,' explains Gar Yee.

To keep everything safe and easy to find, organise your documents in a clearly labelled folder and bring both hard copies and digital backups wherever possible. This way, you'll minimise the risk of losing or damaging important papers during the move.

While specific requirements vary by university, the typical essentials include your:

• accommodation contract
• copies of prescriptions
• passport-sized photographs
• proof of address for GP registration
• university acceptance letter
• student finance documents
• valid ID, either a passport or driving license.

If you happen to forget something, don't worry - most documents can be replaced or posted to you later.

Clothing and seasonal items

When packing clothes for university, focus on versatility and comfort. 'Do not pack your whole wardrobe,' says Gar Yee. 'Space is limited in university rooms, so only bring your essentials.'

To make packing and unpacking easier:

• label boxes or bags by category for quick access
• pack for the term ahead and swap seasonal items like coats and boots during visits home
• pack your first few days' outfits last so they're easy to find when you arrive
• roll your clothes to save space and reduce creases.

Bathroom basics

Whether you're sharing a bathroom or have your own en suite, having your own hygiene essentials helps keep things clean, organised, and stress-free. Consider bringing:

• a dressing gown
• personal toiletries like deodorant, razor, and skincare products
• sliders if you're sharing a bathroom or shower area
• shower gel, shampoo, and conditioner
• a sturdy wash bag to keep everything together
• toilet rolls
• toothbrush and toothpaste
• towels and hand towels.

Gar Yee advises 'bringing a laundry bag that's light and easy to carry to the communal laundry rooms - many students swear by the large blue IKEA shopping bags, as they're spacious, waterproof, and fold away when not in use.'

Home comforts and decor

If you're staying in student accommodation, your room will usually come furnished with a bed, desk, wardrobe, and chair. These spaces tend to be more compact than what you're used to at home, so packing with space-saving in mind is key.

You'll be spending plenty of time in your room - studying and recharging from university life - so comfort is important. You'll likely need: 

• an airer (heated if your budget allows)
• desk lamp
• entertainment like a speaker, games console, or instrument
• fairy lights or personal photos
• laundry basket
• small fan - for warmer months
• storage boxes
• a TV (you'll need a TV licence to watch live content).

'Messy shared spaces can quickly become stressful' explains Gar Yee, so it's worth arriving with some basic cleaning supplies like cloths, sprays, and bin bags. While you can buy larger items like mops and hoovers later, she advises keeping your belongings organised and coming prepared to help set the tone for a tidy shared environment.

To avoid charges for wall damage when you move out, opt for removable Command strips instead of Blu Tack or tape - they're easy to remove and won't leave marks.

Your room is also a great place to connect with new flatmates during freshers' week. Packing a couple of spare mugs, some biscuits, or a board game or deck of cards can help start friendships off on the right foot.

Kitchen essentials

Most student halls provide basic kitchen appliances, but it's a good idea to check what's available in advance.

'One good frying pan and saucepan are usually enough. And you really don't need a 16-piece dinner set - two basic sets of cutlery will do,' says Gar Yee.

If possible, coordinate with your flatmates before buying anything to avoid duplicate items and unnecessary expenses. Some universities even offer pre-packaged kitchen kits, which can be a convenient option.

Be sure to review your accommodation's rules carefully, as certain appliances - like deep fat fryers or rice cookers - are often banned due to fire risks.

Unless your kitchen is already equipped, you'll likely need:

• baking trays
• bin bags
• cling film and tin foil
• chopping board and sharp knives
• cupboard essentials like teabags, baked beans, and pasta
• cutlery, mugs, and glasses
• measuring jug
• microwave-safe plates and bowls
• utensils such as peeler, spatula, grater, ladle
• saucepans and frying pan
• tea towels, dish cloths, and oven gloves
• tin opener, corkscrew, and bottle opener.

To save money on a student budget, Gar Yee advises investing in 'Tupperware or microwavable containers. They're handy for leftovers, batch-cooking or using to bring lunch onto campus.'

To avoid mix-ups in shared kitchens, it's a good idea to label your kitchenware clearly.

Electricals

A reliable laptop is arguably your most essential university tool. It gives you the flexibility to study anywhere - especially when library spaces are limited - and lets you access everything from lecture slides to late-night Netflix sessions.

Make sure to pack:

• ethernet cable for a more stable internet connection
• extension lead or multi-plug to keep all your devices powered up
• headphones (ideally noise-cancelling)
• laptop and charger
• phone and charger
• portable hard drive or USB stick for extra storage.

It's important to check your accommodation's rules on electrical items beforehand. While most halls allow devices like hair dryers, items such as electric heaters or electric blankets may be banned due to fire safety concerns.

Study essentials

University life means juggling lectures, deadlines, and revision, so staying organised from the start really pays off. Essential study supplies to bring include:

• A4 paper and notebooks
• an academic diary or planner
• pens, pencils, and highlighters
• ring binder files and dividers
• stapler, hole punch, ruler, and scissors
• sticky notes.

It's also a good idea to set up your student email before arrival and install any university apps in advance. These tools will help you navigate campus, access course materials, and stay up to date with important communications. Discover 10 things to do to prepare for university.

Don't stress if you forget something - most campuses have stationery shops nearby, and many universities also stock basic supplies on campus.

What to buy when you arrive

Not everything needs to be packed in advance, especially if space is limited. Some essentials are often easier - and sometimes cheaper - to pick up once you've settled in, plus it gives you the chance to see what you need based on your new space.

Items worth buying after you arrive include:

• bedding, duvet, and pillows (especially if you're unsure about your bed size)
• cleaning equipment like mops, brushes or hoovers
• food basics such as fresh produce, frozen meals, and snacks
• laundry detergent and toiletries
• organisers or extra storage solutions once you've assessed how much room you have
• seasonal extras like fans or warm blankets, depending on the weather.

If you're travelling a long way or relying on public transport, consider using click-and-collect services from shops near campus. Many major retailers offer student bundles for kitchenware, bedding, and stationery that can be delivered or picked up when you arrive.

Before making any purchases, don't forget to sign up for student discount platforms like TOTUM and UNiDAYS. These services offer discounts at popular retailers including ASOS, Amazon, Apple, Boots, IKEA, and many supermarkets - helping you stretch your budget further.

Explore our tips on saving money as a student.

What not to bring

When moving from your family home to a smaller space in student halls, it's important to avoid overpacking. Save yourself space and hassle by leaving these items at home:

• furniture - your room will already be furnished
• old schoolbooks - your reading list will be provided through the university
• printer - campus libraries provide convenient printing services
• pets - even small animals like goldfish are not allowed in student accommodation
• suitcases - opt for storage boxes or foldable bags instead, which are easier to store.

You might also find it easier to leave your car at home. Parking at student accommodation is often limited, residential permits can be costly, and your halls are likely to be centrally located or well connected by public transport - making a car less necessary.

Gar Yee also points out that bringing A-Level books and notes isn't necessary, as 'students often end up never using them. If there are any important documents you may think you really need, take a picture of these and save them on your phone or laptop to look back on instead.' This way, you can keep useful information without taking up valuable space.

Transporting your belongings

Move-in day can be hectic, with stairs, lifts, and crowded corridors to navigate. To make the process smoother, try to:

• book an arrival time slot with your university if this option is available
• bring a trolley or luggage straps to lighten the load and make carrying easier
• check how many people are allowed to help you move in
• pack your belongings into manageable boxes or bags.

To make the most of your first day, Gar Yee recommends that you: 'move in earlier in the day, as this will give you more time to unpack things before having to go to enrolments or meet your new flatmates.'

If transporting everything yourself feels overwhelming, consider using shipping services like Student Storage Box. They typically charge around £58.40 per three suitcases, delivering your belongings straight to your halls.

Gar Yee explains that moving out after a year in student accommodation can be unexpectedly challenging: 'It always seems like you accumulate more things than you bought at the start of the year. Keep some of your packing boxes and store them under your bed. Remember to also keep duct tape handy.'

She also highlights the versatility of reusable shopping bags, calling them 'a must when doing your weekly food shop.' Not only are they essential for your food shopping, but they're also useful for laundry or packing up at the end of the year.

Keeping your valuables safe

While it's unlikely that anything will go missing, it's always smart to stay cautious - especially when living in shared accommodation. Simple steps can help keep your belongings secure:

• always lock your door, even if you're stepping out briefly
• close windows when you're out, particularly on lower floors
• check whether your belongings are covered by student insurance
• don't leave strangers alone in your room
• never share your keys or access cards with others
• store valuables safely in drawers or cupboards
• protect important items like ID, insurance policies, and warranties.

Where to go for help

Settling in socially can be one of the trickier parts of starting university. Gar Yee explains that 'the initial move in can feel awkward if you don't know anyone. Using platforms such as your University's Unibuddy for joining group chats for your accommodation, course, or even societies before moving to get to know people can really help.' Taking the initiative early can make those first conversations much easier.

Your university's accommodation team and student support services are there to help with:

• mental health concerns and feelings of homesickness
• roommate or flatmate issues
• understanding residence rules and welfare policies.

It's also a good idea to keep a written list of emergency contacts, including family members, your bank, mobile provider, and university support team, just in case your phone is lost or stolen.

Find out more

• Explore 7 life skills you'll learn at university.
• Discover the importance of extra-curricular activities.
• Check out these tips from Reading on preparing for university in summer.