Uni essentials: What to pack when you move
A detailed uni packing list is vital to ensure you don’t forget anything before making the big move. To help you prepare what to take to uni, we’ve created a checklist of uni essentials for everything you may need - from your kitchen to your bedroom.
Documents checklist
The documents you pack are probably the most important things you need for university, especially if you’re an international student. Whether you’re a local or international student, make sure you have the following documents on hand:
- Passport and passport photos
- Driver’s license or another form of secondary identification
- Copy of birth certificate
- Bank details
- Medical certificates and copies of prescriptions
- Vaccination history
- University acceptance letter
- Student finance documents
- Accommodation paperwork
- National Insurance number
- NHS documents
- Insurance documents
If you’re ever in doubt whether you need a specific document - we recommend making a copy just in case. Now, let’s move on to the more exciting things you may need as part of your uni packing list.
Kitchen checklist
If you’re moving into student accommodation with a kitchenette, you may need to pack some cooking essentials. To help you whip up a delicious meal (in a small space), take a look through this checklist:
- Plates and bowls
- Cutlery
- Drinking glasses and mugs
- Chopping knives
- Chopping board and baking tray
- Frying pan and saucepan
- Bottle opener and a tin opener
- Cooking utensils like a spatula, wooden spoon, vegetable peeler and ladle
- Grater
- Measuring spoons and jug
- Cling film and tin foil
- Tupperware
- Dishcloths
- Bin bags
- Cupboard essentials like tea, coffee, sugar, salt and pepper
Your student accommodation may have a cafeteria, but it’s still a good idea to pack some must-haves to help you feel like you’re cooking at home.
If your student accommodation kitchen has an induction hob, be sure to check out our handy guide on how to use it effectively.
Bedroom checklist
Your uni bedroom is going to be a safe space so it’s really important that it feels comfy. You should pack anything that will make your uni bedroom feel just like home, including your childhood teddy bear, favourite books or family photos.
To help you get sorted, here’s a handy checklist for all the bedroom uni essentials you may need:
- Duvet and pillows
- Bed linen like a mattress protector, duvet cover, sheets and pillowcases
- Uni room decorations like a rug, fairy lights, cushions or art prints
- Clothes for all seasons
- Coat hangers
- Laundry basket
- Laundry detergent and softener
- Iron and small ironing board (if necessary)
- Storage containers
- Earplugs
If you need advice on how to decorate your uni room, we’ve explored some cool ideas in our blog ‘Best ideas for decorating a uni room’.
Bathroom checklist
Whether you have an en-suite bathroom or have to share a communal bathroom, it’s best to be ultra-prepared. Here’s a list of some bathroom must-haves to add to your uni checklist:
- Towels
- Bath mat
- Toiletries and medication
- Cleaning supplies
- Sewing kit
- Shower caddy and shower shoes
- Bathroom bin
- Small mirror
- Weekend bag
- A robe and slippers
Stationery checklist
Now that we’ve covered all your living essentials, don’t forget that you’ll need a few things to actually help you study. Before hitting the road, don’t forget to pack the following items from this list:
- Stationery such as pens, files, scissors, sticky notes and notebooks
- Laptop, charging cable and laptop case
- Phone charger
- Extension lead
- Plug adaptors
- Padlock
- Earphones
- Class timetable and planner
Your student accommodation may have some important items available, such as a laundry room or a printer, so make sure to do your research before checking off everything on your uni packing list.
Advice for international students
Trying to remember everything you need to pack before leaving home can be stressful. But don’t worry - there are plenty of places in the UK where you can buy uni essentials. The most important items you should pack are your personal documents and anything that reminds you of home.
Check out our guide on moving to a new city for more tips.
If you’re still looking for student accommodation, don’t hesitate to check out our locations across the UK or speak to our friendly team for more information.
