Packing for university can be difficult. 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.
In light of COVID-19 it is especially important that students try to pack as light as possible this year and only consider what they really 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.
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.
Enough cutlery, glassware and crockery for your own use.
The pots and pans you need to cook your favourite meals as well as utensils.
Tupperware containers to store extra portions.
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.
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 colder weather.
A selection of shoes (but not too many) for all occasions - casual, smart, sporty, bad weather.
Smart clothes. These may be particularly important if you have to go for 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 - 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 brining 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.
A camera. You never know when you might want to capture a special moment.
Photos of family and friends. University will become your home-away-from-home, so it is important you make it your own space.
