Packing for University can be a challenge, there's no doubt about it.
What on Earth do you bring with you to survive an entire year in a totally new place?
Luckily for you, we've been there and done that with Uni packing. To stop you making the same mistakes as we did, we're on-hand to help you tackle the impossible task of throwing your life possessions into a few suitcases and boxes.
Obviously, you need to bring enough clothes to wear, but read on for some hints, tips, and a few surprises you may not have even considered bringing.
Important documents
Passport/Citizen Card & Driving License*
* It's important to try and take more than one form of I.D. with you - just in case one gets lost!
University & Course Acceptance Letters
If you cannot find the physical copy, check your emails for a digital one.
Student Finance Paperwork
You may need these upon enrolment to show that you can pay your tuition fees.
Accommodation Letter
These prove to your accommodation or halls provider when collecting your keys that you are who you say you are.
National Insurance Number/Letter
If you're looking to work in Leicester, make sure you either memorise or download a copy of this from the HMRC website, you'll need to present it to your employer for tax purposes.
VISA Documentation
If you are an international student, bring your Home Office documentation as proof of your right to study and work - you may need to present this upon enrolment.
Medicine/First aid kit
You will soon learn about freshers’ flu and will be grateful for any paracetamol within reach! It’s also good to keep a supply of general medicine and plasters etc. the last thing you want to do is having to go to the supermarket when you’re already under the weather.
Clothes Airer
Whether you live in uni accom or your own flat, using a dryer costs a lot of money, so you’ll make great savings with a handy airer!
Kitchen equipment
Make sure you bring everything you’ll need to make your favourite meals. Top tip, if you only bring a couple of plates, mugs, and other essentials, you’ll be forced to stay on top of your washing up! Also leave the microwaves/kettles/toasters at home, your accommodation will likely have these, and even if they don’t, you don’t want to end up with 5 microwaves if all your flatmates decided to bring one with them!
Sliders
You’ll probably want to avoid walking around your flat in socks, and sliders are handy for doing laundry or walking down to the corner shop for a late-night sweet treat.
Posters
Posters don’t take up too much space and will make your new room feel like home!
Card games
Whether you’re getting to know your flatmates or going to a social, so many card games are good fun at university!
Water bottle
You’ll quickly notice that everyone in lectures has their own emotional support water bottle, so get yourself one and stay hydrated.
Bedding
Most accommodation comes without bedding, so make sure you check your accommodation info and bring anything you will need for a good night’s sleep (no accom will have your plushies, so bring at least one of them along).
Batteries
Despite the majority of gadgets coming with a wall charger nowadays, batteries crop up where you least expect them. Keep a couple on hand when you inevitably need them.