Starting university can be stressful, especially the moving process. Before you go on your IKEA haul, let me share a few things that you will need and don't need to take with you to university.
Things You Will Need
Bedding- make sure you buy a mattress protector, duvet set and cushions. Most university dorms will not provide you with bedding, so make sure to invest in some bedding! And remember to check whether the room will have a single or double bed, you don't want to get the wrong size duvet/mattress protector.
Cups/Bowls/Pans/Cutlery- You don't need to buy lots of kitchen stuff but make sure to have the essentials. I would take at least two of everything just in case you have friends or family who may visit you whilst you're at university.
Medicine/First Aid- Most people don't really think about this when they're moving to university, but it is a good idea to take some paracetamol and plasters with you just in case you feel ill or get injured whilst cooking.
Toiletries- When you arrive at university you will most likely receive a fresher's box filled with snacks, washing up pods and small toiletries. I would recommend taking basic essentials including toilet paper, cotton buds/pads and stuff you will need for laundry. Doing laundry at university is expensive so think about other cost-effective methods, see if there is a local laundrette or you can wash your clothes in your room (most of my friends have done this whilst in undergrad haha). I would also recommend taking a drying rack for your clothes because university dryers are not great....
Decor- this is not an essential item but once you get to university you may feel homesick so having items like photographs and posters can be helpful when settling into your dorm. Some university will not allow things like fairy lights (plugged into the mains) or posters as it can damage the walls, so double check before you arrive!
Things You Don't Need
Kettle/Microwave- Most university dorms will supply kettles, microwaves, fridges and some cleaning supplies so don't bring these with you. It is important to check whether your university allows you to bring things like rice cookers or mini fridges as it might be considered a fire hazard.
Expensive Personal Items- It is best to leave really expensive belongings at home because over the holiday period you will leave your stuff at university. Before you go to university, ensure that all expensive items like laptop, tablet, phone, electronic devices are insured just in case.
Lots and lots of decor- Don't bring rugs and lots of decorations, it will be a hassle to move everything after first year and will make your room feel cluttered. It is important that your room feels comfortable but not overwhelming.
Speakers or Sound Systems- When you join university you will not only learn how to live independently, but how to live with others. It is so important to be considerate of others, so don't play loud music at night or make excessive noise that could upset your neighbours. If you are living in a quiet block on campus, then this is a requirement but inevitably the first few weeks of university will be noisy but if it starts to affect you and your neighbours then report it to the university.
These are my things you will need/don't need to bring with you to university. I hope this list was helpful! University is exciting but stressful so make sure to take care of yourselves and speak to someone if you start feeling overwhelmed. I hope you all have an amazing time at university, let me know in the comments if you want more posts like this!
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