Essential items you need for university

Packing for uni can feel overwhelming, but don’t worry—we’ve created a handy checklist to help you cover the essentials without overpacking.

Before we dive into what to bring, here’s a quick note on what not to bring, as these items are prohibited in our residences:

🚫 Candles, incense sticks or burners

🚫 Cooking appliances to use in the bedroom  (e.g. rice cookers, fridges, toasters, air fryers, coffee makers)

🚫 Electric or gas heaters

🚫 Dartboards or weapons of any kind (real or replicas - don't bring them)

🚫 Pets (even small caged ones!)

If any of these are found in your room, you’ll be asked to remove them within 24 hours. For more info on what not to bring to halls, click here

✅ Bedroom Checklist

• Bed linen (sheets, pillowcases, duvet cover)
• Duvet & pillows
• Laundry basket
• Clothes & hangers
• Clothes drying rack
• Stationery & study supplies
• Laptop & charger
• Personal decorations & photos
• Important documents (e.g. passport, ID)
• Extension lead

If you don't want to lug your massive bedding pack, you can purchase a bedding set for £30 from the main reception team. 

✅ Bathroom Checklist

• Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, etc.)
• Toilet paper
• Towels
• Bath mat
• Bathroom cleaning products

✅ Kitchen Checklist

(Don’t worry—your kitchen will already be equipped with basic appliances like an oven, hob, fridge, freezer and kettle)

• Plates, bowls
• Mugs, cups, glasses
• Pots and pans
• Cutlery
• Baking trays
• Cleaning supplies (sponge, spray, washing-up liquid)
• Chopping boards
• Tea towels & bin bags
• Food containers (Tupperware)
• Cheese grater

🧸 Nice-to-Haves (Optional)

• Small TV
• Decorative cushions & throws
• Rug
• Indoor plant
• Desk fan
• More personal photos

🧥 Clothes & Shoes

Bring enough clothing for the current season, and swap out items during trips home. Remember to pack:

• Everyday wear
• Gym gear & sportswear
• Formal outfit for a gala dinner or a sports ball
• Fancy dress outfit (you’ll need it!)
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Night-out shoes
• Slippers, dressing gown/kimono 
• Coat hangers

🔌 Electrical Items

• Laptop or PC (essential for studying)
• Phone & laptop chargers
• Extension lead (with surge protection)
• UK plug adaptors (for international students)

⚠️ All electrical items over one year old, or purchased outside the UK or EU, must be PAT tested before use in your accommodation.

💊 Medication & First Aid

• Any prescription medication (bring enough for your first few weeks)
• Basic first aid (plasters, pain relief, cold remedies)

Make sure to register with the medical centre as soon as you move in to ensure you have access to healthcare and support when you need it.

🗂️ Important Documents

Depending on your situation, you may need:

• Passport or national ID
• Driver’s licence
• University offer letter
• Student finance details
• NHS registration info

🛍 Forgot Something?

Don’t panic! Most items can be bought after you arrive. A little forward planning now means you can settle in faster and focus on meeting new people and enjoying uni life.
You can also order some kits now from UniKitOut, which will be delivered and ready for you when you move in. Use the discount code HW10 for 10% off!