Your first university food shopping guide
Starting university comes with plenty of firsts: moving into a new space, making new friends, and, for many students, doing their very first food shop.
That first trip to the supermarket can feel a little overwhelming, with endless aisles and so many options. This student shopping list guide will help you get started, from planning your first shop to knowing what essentials to grab so you can stay on budget and stocked up.
Why plan your first uni shop?
While grabbing whatever looks good on impulse might feel tempting, planning ahead can make a big difference.
A clear uni grocery list helps you shop efficiently, avoid food waste and makes it easier to stick to your student budget. Having a plan also means you’ll always have the basics on hand to put together quick, filling meals.
Quick starter uni grocery list
Have no clue where to start? No problem. We’ve created a simple first uni food shop list consisting of staples to get you going. As you get the hang of your grocery haul, you can always adjust this list based on your diet, preferences and local supermarket offerings.
Carbohydrates and pantry staples
- Pasta, rice or noodles
- Bread or wraps
- Breakfast cereal or oats
- Cooking oil
- Butter
Tins and cans
- Baked beans
- Tinned tomatoes
- Tinned tuna, chickpeas or lentils
- Instant soup
Fresh produce -fruits and vegetables
- Onions, garlic and bell peppers (great for seasoning)
- Potatoes or sweet potatoes
- Apples, bananas or berries
- Leafy greens like spinach or kale
Protein
- Chicken
- Beef mince
- Eggs
- Tofu
- Beans or lentils
Dairy and alternatives
- Milk (or oat/soy/almond milk alternatives)
- Cheese
- Yogurt
Condiments, herbs and spices
- Salt
- Pepper
- Mixed herbs
- Ketchup, mayo, mustard or hot sauce
- Stock cubes, ideal for soups and sauces
Frozen foods
- Frozen veggies (like peas, sweetcorn or mixed veg)
- Frozen chips, french fries or wedges
- Frozen fruit for smoothies
Snacks and treats
- Biscuits or cereal bars
- Crisps or popcorn
- Chocolate bars
- Instant noodles
- Mixed nuts, coated raisins and rice cakes
Budget-friendly shopping tips
Student life means learning how to make your money stretch further. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to save when it comes to food shopping.
- Look out for student offers: Many supermarkets run student discounts or meal deals
- Get a loyalty card: Sign up for a Tesco Clubcard, Nectar card, or your local supermarket’s points scheme to find the best deals and discounts
- Set a budget: Avoid overspending by deciding how much you’ll spend each week on your food shop
- Think meals, not just items: Meal prepping means you’ll have leftovers ready for the fridge or freezer, saving money and time.
Your first uni food shop doesn’t have to be stressful. With a plan, a budget and a uni grocery list of essentials, you’ll be ready to fill your cupboards and cook easy meals in no time.
Do’s and don’ts for your first uni food shop
When it comes to your first uni food shop, the key is to keep things simple: make a list, plan a few easy meals, stock up on bulk essentials and consider splitting basics with housemates.
- Do: Try meal prepping as a way to save money and reduce stress
- Do: Opt for healthier choices wherever possible
- Don’t: Shop while hungry - you’ll end up buying things you don’t need or relying on snacks
- Don’t: Buy everything in one go - start small and build your cupboard basics
FAQs
What are the most affordable supermarkets for students?
While many supermarkets offer a ‘basics’ range, Aldi and Lidl are among the cheapest for keeping your weekly shop under £20.
What kitchen essentials should I bring for cooking at uni?
Tick all your cooking essentials off with our Uni Essentials Checklist, your one-stop guide to surviving your first year at iQ.
Should I shop weekly or monthly as a student?
It’s all down to preference; however, doing a weekly shop is an effective way to manage waste and break down your budget.
How can I store groceries in a shared student kitchen?
For fresh food items, tupperware and freezer bags are a great way to make your food shop last longer. For food cupboard items, make sure to label your groceries with a Sharpie and keep them dry.
