The definitive checklist of 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 like cooking, and the tech you’ll need for 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, waste paper bin, towels and laundry basket are non-negotiables.

A blanket or throw and a few cushions will provide flexible options for extra comfort. Finally, bring in some home comforts to make your uni bedroom a bit more special – rugs, a table lamp, a mirror, wall clock, fairy lights, some indoor plants, a portable speaker and your favourite slippers will do the trick.

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

Raid the drawers at home: if your parents or caregivers have spare items such as saucepans, kitchen utensils, a colander, a wok, cutlery or bowls, that’s a few less items you’ll have to buy. Run through your favourite meals to cook, and think about what kind of kitchen equipment you’ll need: a sieve, grater, pan, 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 up your tech? Heading to university is the time, and we have the best laptops for students. Whether you’re into a laptop or 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 go 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. 

There’s no doubt that starting university is a huge milestone for the whole family, not just the student who’s heading there. It’s nice to think about some comforts that you can lean on when you’re missing home – maybe it’s your favourite blanket, a bundle of family picture frames, prints, an especially comfortable bean bag for cherished memories and handy reminders. You’ll be thankful for those little things later down the line. 

Download and print our handy checklist to ensure you’ve got everything covered.