GOING TO UNIVERSITY- THE ULTIMATE CHECKLIST

Getting into university is one thing but for some it also means getting ready to live away from home for the first time, which can feel quite overwhelming! Being prepared and equipped in advance will help ensure that your transition into this new independent world is much smoother! 

But when it comes to packing I know some of you might thinking - 
'where/how do I even begin?!'  

The key to successful packing starts with a checklist so you can keep up to date and tick off what you have, and find out what you need. 

Here is my checklist that I always use to help make my packing easier and more efficient. You can make alterations depending on your gender and personal preference.



DISCLAIMERS: 
1. Do you need absolutely everything in this list? No. 
It's more like the everything-I-could-possibly-think-of-list so feel free to add and eliminate items depending on your personal preference
2. It is also important to note that every university is different. Depending on the type of accommodation you have, you may find that certain things such as:
  - iron and ironing board
  - kettle
  - microwave 
  - hoover
  - dustpan and brush
may/may not have already been provided for you, but I would advise checking the specifications for your exact accommodation so you can be sure of what you need and what you don't need
3. Depending on the distance of your uni you may find that you may/may not be able to make frequent trips home in or between the holidays so that will determine how many things you take when you first move in e.g. you may only want to take winter clothes for the first term then swap them for summer clothes after the holidays. It's entirely up to you.
4. Keep within a budget. Don't go and splash crazy amounts of cash on pots and pans, particularly as you will be living with strangers. Most essentials can be found in your local Argos, Ikea, Wilkos, Robert Dyas, TK Maxx, Primark or Debenhams. Ask current university students where to find the best bargains!

TOP TIP: Start with what you actually need, then you can add additional accessories and luxuries

 THE ESSENTIALS
These are the things you will definitely need all year round and are the primary items you will need for employment, financial or emergency purposes:

FIRST AID

You can never be too safe. Accidents do happen (I ended up in hospital due to a frozen bacon accident in my first year-long story lol) so it's important to be prepared. Particularly if you have any allergies or prescribed medication make sure you take them with you.

Note: Find out where you're university medical centre, security office and local hospital are so you are well prepared in case of an emergency.

BEDROOM

This is essentially your home away from home for the next 9 months so you can customise it as much as you would like! (but check your accommodation guidelines first) Remember you could be sharing a flat with people from the other side of the world and its amazing to see how each individual brings different personal touches to their room. No two rooms look alike once people are settled in! Get creative! Stack your shelves with essential books and photos and keep your environment clean and organised-it will make working in there a lot more appealing!

Note: Some people often like to bring a games console and TV/monitor for movies too (but make sure it doesn't take over your studies lol). 

Also, if you wish to watch actual TV make sure you get a TV license (which usually incurs a small fee)

CLOTHING

Make sure you take all the essentials (such as underwear) with you. Then depending on distance from home and how often you will visit, room size and space, cost and access to travel etc. you can decide how much more you can afford to bring.

BATHROOM

What people choose to keep in their bathroom varies, but I would definitely advice always keeping spare shower gel, deodorant and toilet roll to avoid any cringe worthy moments!

HAIR, MAKEUP AND ACCESSORIES

Obviously this is solely targeted at the ladies, but guys may also want to have a read so you don't forget your shampoo, dryer or hair gel too!

LAUNDRY AND CLEANING

The laundry system in every university is different so its important to find out the policy for your accommodation. You may find that you need to have cash on hand to do your laundry or that you have a card top up system. You may even decide to just do your laundry at home. Once you get into a routine you will soon find out what works best for you.

STATIONARY

Lectures, seminars and independent study are key parts of getting through university. So make sure you stay well equipped and on top of your game.

KITCHEN

This is usually the place where you will meet most of your flatmates and will often be the place you gain the best understanding of personal space and respect. Most halls provide at least two fridges and freezers in each flat as well as cupboards for each individual. However, it is still important to keep a close eye on your property and it might be work investing in a lock for your cupboards to prevent theft and accidents. 

TIP: make your property distinct with labels or by purchasing non-conventional coloured cutlery and plates so you will notice if something has been misused or misplaced.  

I hope you found this checklist helpful and feel free to send this checklist to anyone else you might know who is about to move into university halls.

God bless


Iz x