Moving out for the first time is a big step, and moving into student accommodation can feel like a bit of a minefield – knowing what you do or don’t need to buy, how much to pack, what to bring and what to leave behind… there’s a lot to it! Below you’ll find 10 of the best things you can buy before moving into student accommodation.
A shoe rack
No matter how big your bedroom is or how much storage your flat has, you will always find yourself needing more space! A shoe rack can be really useful for keeping your shoes in one place (no more running around looking for your boots before heading to a lecture…) and ensuring your room stays clutter-free.
Food storage containers
One of the best things you can do for your health and your budget at university is batch cooking – making multiple portions of your favourite meals, so you’ve always got something proper to eat on days you can’t be bothered to cook, or when you simply don’t have the time. As such, storage containers are really handy and you can never have too many. Plastic ones are usually easier to store, but glass ones are better for the environment. You could even keep leftover Chinese takeaway containers if you don’t want to buy brand new tubs!
Mattress topper
If you want your student accommodation bed to feel as cosy and comfortable as your bed at home, it might be worth investing in a mattress topper – just to give you an extra layer of support, and keep you sleeping soundly through late nights and early mornings. And don’t get us started on studying in bed…
Towels and bed linen
It’s an obvious one, of course, but you’ll need both towels and bed linen. And not just one set of each! Bring at least two bath towels and two hair towels, as well as two sets of bedding. This means that you don’t need to worry about what to do when one seat is in the wash, as you’ll have others to use in the meantime. Your bedding and towels are a great way to inject some colour and personality into your space, too!
A desk lamp
Late night study sessions are a key part of uni, as much as you might not want to partake… a desk lamp means you can study during the evenings and still feel cosy, without harsh overhead lighting ruining your vibe.
A reusable water bottle
There’s no need to be continually buying bottled water – this is bad for the planet and your bank balance. By investing in a good reusable water bottle (especially one which keeps your drink cold for hours) you can stay hydrated all the time!
Hangers
While you definitely don’t need to bring your entire wardrobe with you to uni, especially if you can go home between seasons to switch out what you’ve got with you, you do need to make sure you’re covered for all occasions. From lectures and nights out to gym sessions and cosy nights in, you’ll need hangers to store your clothes – and it’s something that’s easy to overlook.
Spare chargers
There’s nothing worse than being in a city you don’t know yet and your phone, laptop or watch charger breaking – especially if it’s late at night. And in shared accommodation, things can easily be misplaced or borrowed. It helps to have a back-up of each of your device chargers, so you can stay connected.
Over the door hooks
Another storage shout-out, because again you can never have too much! Whether you opt for hooks, which are useful for coats, towels and dressing gowns, or baskets to store accessories, making the most of your space is a great way to go.
A basic first aid kit
Plasters, sterile wipes, painkillers – that’s pretty much all you need in terms of basics, though you could add some bandages, antibacterial cream and tweezers. This is just something that’s really handy to have in case you suffer any minor injuries!
These are 10 things you should buy before moving out of home and into student accommodation, to make your life just a little bit easier…
