Not sure what to take for your first term? Our list covers it all
Watching your child head off to university is a monumental milestone—a proud, emotional blend of excitement and mild panic. The hardest part of the transition? Making sure they leave home with everything they need to survive independently, without packing the entire family car into a mountain of unorganized boxes. In 2026, university halls preparation is all about high-utility minimalism and wellness-focused comfort. This is your definitive, department-by-department checklist to get them sorted in one seamless stop at John Lewis. Get these university essentials right, and the rest should be easy.
Boost your bedroom
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.
Yes, chef
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 at 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.
Tech heads, unite
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.
Bathroom saviours
The bathroom is the one room you probably don’t want to share, but en suites aren’t always a given. University accommodation 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. 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.
FAQs
What is the standard bed size in UK university halls?
A small double bed (also called a three-quarter or 4-foot bed) is the most common, although standard single beds are also widely used in older or budget campus rooms.
Can you take an air fryer or toaster to university halls?
Whether you can bring an air fryer or toaster to university halls depends entirely on your specific accommodation provider, as rules vary widely. Many universities permit air fryers in communal kitchens if they meet electrical safety standards, but toasters are frequently banned because communal kitchens already supply them.
How many sets of clothes hangers should I pack?
You should pack about 30 to 40 clothes hangers for university, consisting mostly of standard velvet or plastic hangers.
What admin and documents do I need to take?
To complete your university enrolment and manage your move, you need to bring a valid photo ID, your National Insurance number, your university acceptance letter and your accommodation agreement. It’s also helpful to have your bank cards and any medical information specific to you, including your NHS number.
Download and print our handy checklist – ensuring you’ve got all the essentials covered means you can focus on enjoying the university experience.
