Packing for university: The ultimate first-year checklist
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
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!