What to pack

Packing checklist

Packing for university can be a tad stressful. If you’ve never lived away from home before there are probably some things you take for granted, and some things you think will be essential that you may never use. We have produced this guide to help you work out what you need to bring.

Honest questions should be asked beforehand; do I really need to bring 10 pairs of trainers or can I survive with just my favourite pairs? Apply this thinking to all items that are packed in advance.

Moving into campus accommodation

If you're moving into halls of residence on College Lane or de Havilland campus, take a look at our living on campus guides to see what's already included in your accommodation.

Campus accommodation inventory

Packing the essentials

There are a few things that everybody will need. This includes documents, kitchenware, study materials, bedding, clothes and toiletries.

Documents
- passport (or other forms of ID)
- all the correspondence you have received from the University, you may need some of this for registration
- details of your accommodation
- any correspondence or paperwork regarding your student finance
- bank card and statements
- visa or insurance documents for international students.
Kitchenware
- enough cutlery, glassware and crockery for your own use
- the pots and pans (induction hob compatible if you are living on College Lane campus, apart from Telford Court) you need to cook your favourite meals as well as utensils
- tupperware containers to store extra portions
- a keep cup/travel mug and reusable water bottle
- oven gloves
- rubber gloves and washing up liquid.
Laptop or computer
- a laptop or other computer with all the accessories you need. Find out about buying a laptop for uni on our Ask Herts page. It is also worth remembering that the University offers a printing service, so you do not need to bring your own printer with you
- chargers and cables.
Study materials
- pens and pencils
- notepaper or notebooks.
Bedding
- sheets - fitted are much easier!
- duvet and blankets. A good tip is to get a duvet the size up from your bed so you can wrap it round yourself or take it to the sofa for those stress-busting movie nights you’ll be enjoying with your new housemates
- mattress protector
- pillows.
Clothes
- casual clothes
- a coat or jacket for cold and wet weather (it can get quite cold from November onwards)
- a selection of shoes (but not too many) for all occasions - casual, smart, sporty, bad weather
- smart clothes (especially if you have to go for job interviews)
- sports and swimwear.
Toiletries
- bring enough shower gel, shampoo and conditioner to see you through the first few weeks. You can buy more later but it is best to start prepared
- toothbrush and toothpaste
- any medication you might need as well as details about your current GP and prescriptions. The University has its own medical centre that you should consider registering with when you arrive
- tampons or other sanitary products
- condoms or birth control pills
- at least two towels
- deodorant
- razor.
The fun stuff
There are also some other things you might want to bring that aren’t so essential but may help make your university life more fun and stress-free.
- fancy dress outfits - you never know when a party might happen!
- books - not just your programme textbooks but something to lie back and relax with
- a TV and don't forget your TV license
- games console
- pack of cards or some board games - it is a great way to meet new people
- movies, TV shows and music. Don’t forget that as a student you can also get a discount to some services such as Spotify or Apple Music. And make a study playlist to help your motivation!
- photos of family and friends. University will become your home-away-from-home, so it is important you make it your own space.

The fun stuff

There are also some other things you might want to bring that aren’t so essential but may help make your university life more fun and stress-free.

fancy dress outfits - you never know when a party might happen
books - not just your course texts but something to lie back and relax with
a TV. If you are bringing a TV don’t forget you will need a TV license
games console
pack of cards or some board games - it is a great way to meet new people
movies, TV shows and music. Don’t forget that as a student you can also get a discount to some services such as Spotify or Apple Music
photos of family and friends. University will become your home-away-from-home, so it is important you make it your own space.