Preparing for University: Packing!

Following on from my previous blog – Post-Results: 5 Things You Can Now Do – I am now writing to provide you with some tips on preparing for university. The next series of blogs will focus on a certain element of university preparation. This blog will give you some tips on things to consider when packing for university.

Checklists

Time to get the notepad out or use a phone app to begin creating lists of what you want to take. Alongside making a list of things you want to take, consider how you will get those things and what else you need to do.

Personally, I created differing lists; kitchen, toiletries/bathroom/cleaning, academic/stationary and general stuff. There are many, many, many lists online – whether that be on the student room or other personal blogs that students have written. Have a read to begin forming your lists.

Remember, some things will be essential. Some will be ‘luxuries’. Such luxuries may be things that you won’t prioritise packing. Also, there are some things that you can buy when you get to campus (Cannon Park shopping centre, Ikea or ordering from the internet).

Read the university accommodation guidance

There are some things already provided for you by the university. For example, in the kitchen, it’s likely that you will be supplied with a kettle and a toaster. Similarly, there may be certain things provided to you in your room. Read what’s included and what you will need to bring (based on this). Also, there are certain things that aren’t allowed – such as candles in rooms because they can set off the fire alarm. Read about this.

Due to Covid-19, there may be extra guidance on things you will need to be aware of, which shapes what you can/cannot bring.

Routine

It’s important to think about your daily routine. What things do you rely on daily? This can help you form your list. These can be very basic things- keep adding to your list over the next few weeks.

Kitchen

This is an interesting list. You will realise how many things you take for granted at home. Think about what utensils you’ll need, and ensuring you bring excess (e.g. spoons, cups, plates etc).

Academic/stationary

The things you have used at school/college are basically useful. Whether that be folders to organise your papers or things like pens, pencils and paperclips.

General

What things do you need to use on a day-to-day basis? Think about room décor. Don’t forget your headphones! Rather than trying to mention an infinite amount of things in this blog, it’s worth doing a google search (or reading another fellow bloggers’ post on this topic).

These are a few things to consider when packing. I hope you found this blog useful. Feel free to drop me a message or comment with your thoughts.