Moving into your first student house is not only exciting but a little overwhelming. Between remembering your bedding and figuring out who’s bringing the kettle, it’s easy to forget something important.
Here at Student Digs, we have curated this checklist to take away the guesswork (and hopefully a bit of the stress). We’ve got every category covered, from important paperwork to kitchen essentials. Now you can focus on the fun stuff: meeting new friends, exploring your campus or discovering your favourite late-night takeaway.
1. Important Documents to Bring to University Move-in Day
It is important to bring all documents with you to university, even if you think you won’t need them. Scan them and keep them stored safely on your laptop, or even check your university admin office if they can keep them stored for you.
- Accommodation: contract, agreement and terms
- Insurance documents
- Driver’s licence or passport
- Your bank account details and bank card
- If you own a car: Insurance documents
- Student loan documents or any other funding document
- NHS medical card or GP registration details
2. Electricals to Bring to University Move-in Day
We understand that your phone and laptop are the most important electronics you will need, but think about the other items you use that you’ll miss:
- Game consoles and headsets
- Charging cables
- Hair dryer and hairstyling tools
- Speakers and amplifiers
3. Cleaning Supplies to Bring to University Move-in Day
Staying on top of basic cleaning tasks will make your life a lot more comfortable and your flatmates a lot happier.
- Disinfectant
- Polish
- Toilet Cleaner
- Rubber Gloves
- Detergent
- Washing Up Liquid
- Dishwasher Tablets
- Iron and ironing board
4. Bedroom Essentials to Bring to University Move-in Day
Here at Student Digs, our properties are kitted out with the essentials: a bed, wardrobe, chest of drawers, desk and chair. You will still need to take some of your own essentials:
- Duvet, covers and sheets
- Mattress protector
- Pillows and pillow cases
- Extension lead
To make your accommodation feel like home, you should take:
- Soft furnishings: rugs, cushions
- Fairy lights
- Ornaments
- Houseplants
- Favourite mug
- Photos – whatever you want to make your room feel more homely.
5. Bathroom Essentials to Bring to University Move-in Day
Having your own set of essentials will save you a lot of stress and awkward “who used all the toilet roll?” moments. Here’s what to pack:
- Shampoo, conditioner and shower gel
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Hand soap
- Feminine hygiene products
- Towels and hand towels
- Toilet roll
- A robe and sliders/slippers
- Nail cutters
- Tweezers
- Small first-aid kit
6. Kitchen Essentials to Bring to University Move-in Day
It is important to check with your housemates to avoid five toasters and no saucepan. Besides that, your kitchen essentials include:
- Mugs and glasses
- Water bottle
- Saucepans and frying pans
- A chopping board and baking trays
- Cutlery and chopping knives
- Plates and bowls
- Bin bags, sandwich bags, foil and cling film
- Wooden spoons, cheese grater, spatula, corkscrew and pizza wheel
- Tea towels and Tupperware
Top Tip: First Night Survival Kit
Depending on your schedule, you may be arriving at your property later in the day. In this case, keep a small bag separate so you’re not unpacking everything on arrival:
- Change of clothes and pyjamas
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Phone charger
- Snacks & water bottle
Move In Day with Student Digs
One main piece of advice we can offer at Student Digs is to label everything. Pack in labelled boxes or bags by room. This saves you from having to dig through a box of saucepans when all you want is your duvet.
Finding the right place to live can make a huge difference in your university experience. It’s not just about having a bed and a desk, it’s about location, comfort and a vibe that fits your lifestyle.
Ready to find your perfect accommodation? Check out our current student properties, covering Leicester, Nottingham, Liverpool, Chester and Sheffield.
