Packing for student life: Essential tips for accommodation

A note to all packers: The chaotic, the organised and everyone in between

Whether you are someone who packs months in advance or leaves everything until the last minute, this guide is for you! Moving to university is a thrilling new adventure, and I am here to share some valuable tips and tricks that I have picked up along the way. Trust me, I have made all the packing mistakes, so you do not have to. Before you attempt to cram one more saucepan into an overstuffed box, let us dive in!

My biggest packing mistake

This might seem like a strange place to start, but I hope sharing my experience will save you from making the same huge mistake I did: do not forget your ID and important documents! In my excitement to pack up all my favourite home comforts, I left behind my essential paperwork. My advice? Set aside a separate, easily accessible bag for your wallet, chargers, ID, passport, and phone. Triple-check that you have this with you on the way to university, you will thank me later!

On to the fun part – Packing!

For the kitchen, the most useful items I had were a small saucepan, a medium saucepan, a frying pan, and some basic utensils. It took me three years to invest in a wooden spoon – I would not advise waiting this long! Trust me, using a dessert spoon to cook makes life unnecessarily difficult. A container like a washing-up caddy is also convenient for keeping your cutlery and utensils organised in your cupboard. You will want another one to hold your washing-up liquid and brush.

Let me preach for a moment: Tupperware is your best friend. It is one of the most useful things you will own at university; perfect for storing leftovers, packing lunches, and saving extra portions to eat later in the week. Cooking for one can be tricky, but having Tupperware means you can save money and avoid throwing away good food.

Storage tips

Many student accommodations have storage space under the bed. I found that having a large storage container that fits under there is a game-changer for keeping your room organised. However, skip the shower storage holders that stick to the bathroom wall – they never worked for me, and I discovered that most bathrooms come with cabinets. If you need extra storage, you can always buy it later.

Let us talk clothes

After plenty of trial and error, I have discovered a few packing tips that can save you a lot of hassle (and space!). Here is the key: aim to have an outfit for each day of the week, plus a few extras. Think cosy outfits you can lounge around in, two going-out outfits, and then some basics. You do not need to bring your entire wardrobe – keeping some clothes at home will save you from lugging everything back and forth.

I know it is tough to leave things behind, but remember, storage space is limited. Make the smart choice and pack only what you need. And here’s a pro tip: bring slippers, Crocs, or sliders for your student home. Trust me, you will burn through socks faster than you think if you don’t!

Make your space cosy

It is essential to make your student accommodation feel like home. Moving out can be overwhelming, and creating a cosy environment can do wonders for your mental health and serve as a conversation starter with your new flatmates. Here are my top three must-haves for making your room extra inviting:

• Fairy lights: A must-have for cosy lighting, they provide a warm, inviting atmosphere, especially since the main lights in student accommodations can be a bit harsh.
• Real plants: Plants can instantly make your room feel happier. Even if you don’t have a green thumb, low-maintenance plants like succulents can add life to your space. Who knows? You might even find your personality turning you into a ‘plant parent’! You have been warned.
• Cushions and blankets: These will soften the edges of your room, adding colour and texture to your sanctuary.

Don’t forget the snacks!

Once your suitcase is bursting and those cardboard boxes cannot fit another thing, remember to pack snacks! This is my secret tip: bring some unusual snacks to share with your new roommates. Offering snacks is one of the best ways to break the ice and start bonding with your new flatmates. And don’t worry if you forget something, there are plenty of shops around to pick up anything you need.

Good luck for your move in day, and welcome to your university adventure!