Leave nothing behind with the ultimate university packing list

As you embark on your journey to university, car packed and ready to go, you can't escape the feeling that you've forgotten something. While that feeling may not go away until you breathe a sigh of relief when you're unpacked and find you did indeed pack your cheese grater, this checklist will help to ease those nerves. As you pack, use this list to guide you through everything you need and tick it off as you go - we love anything that makes packing less stressful!

Bedroom

A goodnight's sleep is always essential, especially during Fresher's week. Your bedding is something you definitely don't want to forget!

• Bedsheets (x2)
• Duvet covers (x2)
• Pillowcases (x2)
• Duvet
• Pillows
• Mattress topper
• Mattress protector
• Blanket
• Cushions
• Clothes and underwear
• Personal items
• Fairy lights
• Books
• Doorstop

Entertainment and electronics

While your PlayStation may feel like an essential, this is a good time to prioritise the electronics you really need and think about what is included in your accommodation. Some students bring TVs with them, others are happy to stream on their laptop. If you're already in contact with your housemates before move in day, why not check what they're bringing and share?

• Ethernet cable
• Extension lead
• Laptop
• Phone
• Games console
• Tablet
• Laptop or phone charger
• Hairdryer or straighteners
• Printer
• Speakers
• Headphones

Important documentation

You can't forget the boring stuff! And you'll thank yourself later when you have all these bits to hand. Grab yourself a plastic wallet and keep all these essentials stored safely. Don't be forgetting your ID if you want to make it through Freshers without a bouncer turning you away!

• Driving licence
• Passport (or at least, a copy of it)
• CV
• NHS number
• Accommodation letters
• Uni acceptance letter
• Bank details
• Passport photos
• Insurance documents
• Bank account details
• Bank debit card
• Student loan documents

Bathroom

Towels and toiletries are a mainstay of any good starting university checklist. You always need to have a fresh supply of towels, and especially a first year university checklist.

• Flannels (x2)
• Towels (x4)
• Toothbrush
• Shampoo
• Contraception
• Conditioner
• Toothpaste
• Soap
• Washbag
• Plasters
• Small first aid kit
• Spare toilet roll
• Tissues
• Moisturiser
• Make-up remover
• Deodorant
• Razor

Medication university checklist

The medication you bring will vary depending on your own personal use. However, here are some staples that are great to have in the cupboard when Freshers flu strikes.

• Paracetamol
• Ibuprofen
• Hay fever tablets
• Cold and flu tablets
• Berocca
• Multivitamins
• Antiseptic cream

Kitchen

It's easily done, walking into IKEA and feeling you need every shaped spoon, garlic press and two types of cheese grater. Our advice is start with the essentials and add as you need. If you're in desperate need of something, there's likely someone else in your accommodation who's happy to let you borrow!

To get you started:

• Saucepan (x2)
• Frying pan (x2)
• Baking trays
• Sieve
• Colander
• Chopping board
• Tupperware
• Wooden spoon
• Grater
• Peeler
• Tin opener
• Oven gloves
• Surface cleaner
• Cloths
• Washing up liquid
• Tinfoil
• Cling film
• Cleaning products
• Bin bags
• Washing up powder

Make sure to check what your accommodation comes with as well. While a lot now provide toasters, kettles and microwaves, do check. Some even provide cooking utensils, so you might be able to skip this section!

Study essentials

We can forget the study staples! Of course, you can invest in pretty planners and a whole host of highlighters, but here are just some of the essentials to get you started. If there's anything you forget, there's always a stationery shop near.

• Notebook
• Biros
• Pencil
• Rubber
• Sharpener
• Highlighter
• Planner
• Folders
• Page tabs
• Textbooks
• USB stick

We don't doubt there'll be other things that crop up as you pack that you'll want to bring along! Consider why you need it and how much use you'll likely get out of this to help you prioritise the necessities you need. And, remember, there's always fellow housemates who are usually happy to help, and you can always use this as an excuse to go shopping in your new town!