The definitive uni packing list: everything you need for university

As with all big steps, proper planning will make starting university a bit less daunting. 

Need to budget while simultaneously making sure you’ve got everything on your list? Read this article, then download and print our essential uni checklist – we’ve thought of it all. Our biggest and best tip? Start with the basics for your new uni bedroom, kit for shared activities, such as cooking, and the tech you’ll need both for your studies and to stay connected. Get those university essentials right, and the rest should be easy. 

Your university bedroom is going to be your new hub for work, rest and play, so think about it carefully. Invest in proper bedding (duvet, pillows, a fitted sheet, as well as a mattress topper and two sets of duvet covers to rotate through the laundry – choose different designs to keep the look fresh). Storage options will save on space and an airer, wastepaper bin, towels and laundry basket are non-negotiables.

A blanket or throw and a few cushions will provide flexible options for extra comfort. Finally, rugs, a table lamp, a mirror, wall clock, some indoor plants, a portable speaker, photo frames, prints and your favourite slippers will help you feel right at home.

Stocking the kitchen can be tough, but cooking and eating well at uni is important. It’s likely that other people will bring bits and pieces of kitchen kit, but we believe it’s better to be safe than sorry – you can always take any extra items that you don’t use home at Christmas.

Raid the drawers at home; if your parents or caregivers have spare items that they don’t use, such as saucepans, kitchen utensils, a colander, wok, cutlery or bowls, that’s a few less items you’ll have to buy.

Next, run through your favourite meals to cook, and think about what kind of kitchen equipment you’ll need: a sieve, grater, pans, a baking tray, food storage containers, oven gloves, tea towels, mugs, drinking glasses, mixing bowls and an apron are all no-brainers. 

Looking for the perfect excuse to upgrade your tech? Heading to university is the time, and we have the best laptops for students. Whether you’re into working on a laptop or taking notes on a tablet, both are easy and lightweight enough to carry from your accommodation to your lectures and everywhere in between (explore our laptop bags here).

Our advice? While it might be tempting to opt for something budget-friendly now, think about how much use you’ll get out of your tech and how much you’ll rely on it. Investing in something that’ll last you for years will pay off, trust us. 

The bathroom is the one room you probably don’t want to share, but en suites aren’t always a given. University accomodation doesn’t provide towels, toiletries or bath mats, so it’s down to you to stock up. When it comes to towels, you really only need two bath towels, a hand towel and a couple of flannels. If you need more direction, read our handy guide to buying the best towels.

And don’t forget the finishing touches – a refreshing diffuser, cosy dressing gown, slippers or sliders, plus a wash bag to keep all your toiletries in one place.

Download and print our handy checklist – ensuring you’ve got all the essentials covered means you can focus on enjoying the university experience.