Going to university guide Going to university essentials
University can be the most enjoyable three years of your life – but it pays to be prepared
Most universities provide a checklist of essential items you’re likely to need during term time – ring your university if you haven’t received one by mid-September.
Check with your university or landlord to find out what furniture and household items are provided at your accommodation and, if possible, get in touch with your housemates to find out who’s bringing what.
Label your personal belongings and try to keep track of any items you lend to friends.
To help you get started we’ve compiled a list of essentials you may need.
Kitchen essentials
- pots and pans
- cutlery
- cooking utensils
- can opener, bottle opener and corkscrew
- mugs and glasses
- plates and bowls
- kettle
- toaster
- microwave
- baking tray
- tea towels
- oven glove
- plastic storage containers
Cleaning and laundry supplies
- kitchen and bathroom cleaner
- cleaning cloths
- washing-up sponge/brush
- washing detergent and fabric softener
- stain removers
- laundry basket/bag
For your room
- duvet
- sheets and pillow cases
- towels
- toiletries and grooming products
- everyday medicines (such as pain killers and plasters)
- lamp and energy-saving light bulb
- extension/multi plug socket
- books, CDs, DVDs and videogames
- alarm clock
- map of the local area.
Clothes and shoes
When packing, ensure you take at least the following key items:
- winter coat
- jacket
- sleepwear
- dressing gown
- slippers
- smart evening wear for Christmas or end-of-term events
- smart clothes for job interviews
- sports/gym wear.
Computing and technology
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- broadband
- printer
- security software
- mobile phone
- digital camera
- portable storage
- TV
- DVD player
- Set-top box
- portable media player
- webcam
Stationery and books
Stationery can be picked up for just a few pounds on the high street. But don’t automatically head to a specialist stationer, bargains can be found elsewhere in supermarkets and independent discount shops.
For books, shop around online to find the cheapest retailers. Our online bargains advice guide can help you to make savings.
Common university essentials include:
- pens
- felt-tip pens and highlighters
- pencil case
- calculator/scientific calculator
- notepads
- ring binders/folders
- tippex/correction fluid
- English dictionary, language dictionary (French, German etc)
- textbooks (remember to dig out last year’s textbooks and check reading list for the next term)
- scissors
- diary/planner/calendar
- stapler/staples
- sticky tape
- rubber bands/paper clips
- recordable CDs/DVDs