Packing for university: The ultimate first-year checklist

packing for university

Packing for university can be a daunting task, especially if it’s your first time living away from home. Here’s the ultimate first-year checklist to ensure you have everything you need:

Essential Documents

  • ID (driver’s licence, passport)
  • University acceptance letter
  • Accommodation contract
  • Bank details and cards
  • Medical and vaccination records
  • Insurance documents (health, property)
  • Emergency contact information

Bedroom

  • Bedding (sheets, duvet, pillows, pillowcases)
  • Mattress protector
  • Laundry basket and bag
  • Hangers
  • Storage boxes
  • Desk lamp
  • Alarm clock
  • Extension cord/power strip
  • Bedside lamp
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Bathroom

  • Towels (bath, hand, face)
  • Shower caddy
  • Toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothpaste, toothbrush, etc.)
  • Shower shoes/flip flops
  • Toilet paper
  • Razor and shaving cream
  • Hairbrush/comb
  • Hairdryer/straightener
  • First aid kit
  • Medications and prescriptions
  • Nail clippers

Kitchen (if not on a meal plan)

  • Plates, bowls, mugs, and cups
  • Cutlery (forks, knives, spoons)
  • Pots and pans
  • Cooking utensils (spatula, wooden spoon, etc.)
  • Can opener
  • Tupperware
  • Dish soap and sponges
  • Kitchen towels
  • Coffee maker/kettle
  • Microwave (if not provided)
  • Mini fridge (if not provided)

Study Supplies

  • Laptop and charger
  • Notebook and binders
  • Pens, pencils, highlighters
  • Planner or calendar
  • Backpack or messenger bag
  • USB flash drive
  • Sticky notes
  • Desk organizers
  • Printer and paper (if needed)

Clothing

  • Everyday wear (jeans, t-shirts, sweaters)
  • Formal wear (for interviews or formal events)
  • Exercise clothes
  • Sleepwear
  • Undergarments and socks
  • Outerwear (jackets, coats)
  • Comfortable shoes (sneakers, sandals)
  • Seasonal wear (swimsuit, gloves, hats, scarves)

Cleaning Supplies

  • Laundry detergent
  • Stain remover
  • Drying rack (if space allows)
  • Cleaning wipes
  • Multi-surface cleaner
  • Trash bags
  • Dustpan and brush

Personal Items

  • Photos and decorations (posters, fairy lights)
  • Books and leisure reading
  • Board games or cards
  • Musical instrument (if you play)
  • Bike and lock
  • Umbrella
  • Sports equipment

Miscellaneous

  • Reusable water bottle
  • Earplugs and eye mask
  • Fan (if not provided)
  • Small tool kit (screwdriver, hammer, etc.)
  • Flashlight
  • Reusable shopping bags

Electronics

  • Laptop
  • Phone and charger
  • Headphones
  • TV (if desired and space allows)
  • Streaming device (like an Amazon Firestick)
  • Echo Dot
  • Amazon Prime subscription

Health and Safety

  • Plasters
  • Face masks
  • Hand sanitiser
  • Disinfecting wipes
  • Thermometer

Packing can be stressful, but having a checklist can make the process much smoother. Tailor this list to your specific needs and the requirements of your university. Good luck with your first year at university!

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