The Uni List

Inspired by my best friend getting into uni, I decided to write a list of all the essentials that people tend to need when they make that big change for themselves. My list is based on my own experience moving into a proper 1 bedroom flat, but it pretty much translatable to work for halls as well. It could also be useful for those moving into a first ever house away from parents :)

Kitchen:
Plates and bowls                 Mugs and Tumblers

Cutlery                               2 saucepans, 1 large, 1 small
Frying Pan                          Wok (if you like Stir Frys etc.)

Utensils: slotted spoon, fish slice, masher (if you like mash), tongs, wooden spoon, potato peeler, pizza cutter
Microwaveable bowl          Baking tray

Tin opener                          Bottle opener

Collander                           Sieve
Measuring jug                    Cheese Grater
Weighing scales, if you plan to bake
Sandwich bags and a couple of tupperware containers to keep food fresh
Tin foil                               Greaseproof paper
Washing Up Liquid            Salt and Pepper Shakers
Tea Towels                       Oven Gloves
Tray(s)                              Bin Bags
A George Foreman Style Grill and Sandwich Maker are other appliances you may want to consider. Most others (Kettle. Toasters etc.) should be supplied by your uni, but check of course.


Your room:
Colourful bedsheets (2 sets, including bottom sheet, duvet cover and pillowcases). A matress protector could also be useful, just in case of a drunken incident
Alarm clock (I would recommend an iPod docking one- can be a great way to listen to music whilst studying, plus works to wake you up)
Cushion for your desk chair, you may well need it!
TV/ games console/ radio- none are necessary, but it is always nice to have something to put on in the background and entertain you when you are in. Also, box sets and DVDs to watch on your laptop.
Stacker draws- an easy way to keep the place relatively tidy and store notepads and things
Extension cord                      A nice lamp
Headphones                         Phone and Laptop chargers
Pen pot/ desk tidy                 A calendar or wall chart organiser
Laundry Basket                    Bin (some rooms supply one)
Photo frames with family photos/ decorative items for your walls (generally there will be pinboard to use, so remember pins too)

Miscellaneous:

A torch, for power cut emergencies (maybe candles and matches too, if you wish)
Ornaments/ fake flowers in a vase etc. It really is the little touches that make it home

First Aid Kit                        Hot Water Bottle
Febreeze Spray or Incense/ Scented candles
Document wallet including passport, passport photos (you will need these for enrolling), driving license, national insurance number, rail card, TV license (if you need one), bank details, medical card and insurance details. Add in uni acceptance letters and your halls contract, if you have one.
Sewing kit, with safety Pins
Umbrella                             Board Games
Batteries                             Personal Safety Alarm
Your toiletries and toilet roll, as well as towels. If you have your own en suite, a toilet brush is advisable too.
Stationary supplies and academic supplies, such as a diary/ planner.

Packing something simple to cook for your first night is always good too, just in case you do not get a chance to pop to the shops because you are too busy moving in and meeting everyone.

Most other things, apart from your clothes, you can get there. By taking all the above though, you are sure to be able to settle in and feel comfortable in your surroundings, without worrying you are missing something. Good luck if you are going to uni, or moving out, this year!