If someone you love is heading off to university this year, chances are you're helping them tick everything off the packing list. From bedding and kitchen essentials to important documents, it's easy to worry they've forgotten something.
To make things easier, I've put together the ultimate university packing list based on my own experience of university. Whether you're shopping together or doing one last check before move-in day, this guide will help make sure the essentials are covered.
The list is below AND at the very bottom is a downloadable PDF to print out and tick off.
BEDROOM ESSENTIALS
Their university room will quickly become their home away from home, so it's worth making it feel cosy.
- Duvet and pillows
- Bedding (at least two sets)
- Mattress protector
- Throws or blankets
- Clothes hangers
- Laundry basket or bag
- Alarm clock (or just your phone!)
- Bedside lamp
- Extension lead (you'll thank yourself later)
- Storage boxes or baskets
- Small fan (especially for September heatwaves!)
Top tip: Check whether your accommodation provides a duvet or pillows before you buy anything.
KITCHEN ESSENTIALS
If they are in self-catered accommodation, these are the basics they'll want from day one.
- Plates
- Bowls
- Mugs
- Glasses
- Cutlery
- Sharp knife
- Chopping board
- Saucepan
- Frying pan
- Wooden spoon
- Tin opener
- Bottle opener
- Colander
- Measuring jug
- Food storage containers
- Tea towel
- Washing-up liquid
- Sponge
- Bin bags
- Lunch box
- Reusable water bottle
They don't need a full kitchen worth of gadgets, just enough to cook their favourite meals.
STUDY ESSENTIALS
University life involves more independent study than school or college, so it's worth being prepared.
- Laptop
- Laptop charger
- Notebook
- Pens and highlighters
- Sticky notes
- Desk organiser
- Headphones
- USB memory stick
- Desk lamp (if needed)
- Diary or planner
BATHROOM ESSENTIALS
These are easy to overlook in the excitement.
- Towels
- Toiletries
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Shower gel
- Hairbrush
- Hairdryer
- Toilet roll (they'll be glad you packed one!)
- Flip-flops for shared showers
- Medicines
- First aid kit
CLOTHES
Pack for every season, British weather has a habit of doing everything in one week!
- Everyday clothes
- Pyjamas
- Underwear and socks
- Coat
- Waterproof jacket
- Trainers
- Smart outfit for interviews or presentations
- Fancy dress outfit (trust me...)
- Slippers
- Dressing gown
IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS
Keep these somewhere safe and easy to find.
- Passport or driving licence
- Student finance information
- University offer details
- Accommodation information
- NHS number
- Bank details
- Insurance documents (if applicable)
- Any prescriptions
It's also worth taking digital copies of important documents, just in case.
THINGS PEOPLE FORGET
These are the items that suddenly become surprisingly useful.
- Extension lead
- Phone charger
- Power bank
- Blu Tack or Command Hooks (check your accommodation rules)
- Scissors
- Sellotape
- Batteries
- Sewing kit
- Torch
- Umbrella
- Hot water bottle
- Ear plugs
- Eye mask
- Favourite mug from home
- Photos of family and friends
- A few snacks for your first evening
ONE LAST THING TO PACK
No matter how well you plan, the first few weeks at university are a learning curve. Once the bedding is folded, the kitchen box is packed and they've double-checked they've got all their important documents, there's just one more thing to think about.
Starting university is a big step. Alongside all the excitement, there'll be new routines, new friendships and for many students, their first experience of cooking and shopping for themselves.
If you're looking for a thoughtful way to wish them luck, my Student Survival Kit is designed to help them settle into university life with practical guidance they'll actually use.
Inside they'll find:
- Six quick and easy hot meal recipes.
- Five simple no-cook salad recipes.
- A handy shopping list covering everyday cupboard essentials.
- Healthy snack ideas for busy study days.
- Simple nutritional advice, including a few gentle tips for recovering after the occasional student night out.
It's a practical little extra that can help build confidence in those first few weeks, while showing them you're thinking of them as they begin this exciting new chapter.
Happy packing and here's to an unforgettable university adventure!
