It’s time to start thinking about the big move, and what you will need to take with you to Uni. Things like bedding, pans, cutlery, I.D. and stationery will surely be on your list. When buying things for Uni it’s easy to remember the big things; but what about the smaller essentials that you might not think about? Here are our top tips on what to take to make your life a little easier…
Extension Cable
Lots of you won’t have enough plugs or plugs in the places you need them. So, investing in an extension cable is essential. We suggest getting ones you can plug USB chargers into as well, so you don’t always have to remember plugs. Check out Argos for a range to suit different budgets.
Drawing pins/Command strips
Using drawing pins to hang pictures posters and important things on your notice board could be a way to make your Uni room more homely. Everyone forgets these and you might have a hard time finding these in shops for the first few weeks. Using command Strips to hang posters instead of blue tack or Sellotape will help you prevent damage to the walls when you come to move out. Check out amazon here.
Lamp/Fairy lights
Taking a lamp or fairy lights will be one way to make your room more homely. They are also great for those of us who don’t like to get up to turn the big light off when we go to bed!
Hangers
When packing your clothes, you need to think about how you are going to store them at the other end! Take some hangers! You will need them! Check out eBay for some deals on cheap hangers.
Sliders/Slippers/Crocs
When moving to uni for the first time you are going to be sharing communal areas with a lot of people, most of whom will have only just moved away from home for the first time. A lot of people might not be the best at cleaning up after themselves. So, sliders/slippers/etc. will be a lifesaver! Lots of shops are having Summer Sales, check out M&M Direct.
Doorstop
Propping your door open when you’re moving in will be so convenient, but past that, having the doorstop will be a great way to be more sociable. It is so easy to lock yourself away in your room studying. Propping your door open will make you more approachable and invite conversation from passing roommates, which can make you feel a lot less isolated. Why not look look at this range from B&Q.
Snacks/drinks/food items
On moving-in day it is so easy to think “I’ll grab something when I get there” but you may find yourself too busy to grab anything. It will be a long day moving in and getting everything sorted, you will be tired! Take some food, snacks and drink with you – you will need them!
Kitchen essentials
It’s easy to remember big things, plates, cutlery etc. but what about the things we don’t think about?
Tupperware (this will be great for food storage and meal prep), bottle opener, tin opener (especially if you like beans and tuna), garlic crusher, seasoning/spices, oven gloves, tea towels and washing up gloves are a must! Check out the Student Living range from The Range.
First aid kit
Take a mini first aid kit with you, you never know when you might need a plaster or a bandage. Make sure you pack plenty of paracetamol and ibuprofen… you’ll thank us when that Freshers hangover hits! Try this one from Boots.
Games/cards
Take a pack of cards, Uno or even cards against humanity! When you and your roommates are sitting around with nothing to do it might be a great way to break the ice! Take a look at Smyths for some ideas of what to take.
Written by Laura Starkey-Ash, Social Media Manager
