A Home Away From Home | Our Moving-To-University Checklist

February 8, 2025

Moving to university is an exciting milestone, but it can also be a bit overwhelming. Whether you're a freshman or returning student, the process of packing up, saying goodbye to familiar surroundings, and creating a new space can bring a mix of emotions. The key to easing the transition lies in being prepared. With the right checklist, your journey to university can feel a lot more organised, less stressful, and ultimately, like a home away from home.

Here’s a comprehensive moving-to-university checklist to help you get started, stay organised, and settle in quickly.

1. Essentials for Your New Living Space

The first thing you need is a functional, comfortable space that feels like home. You don’t need to overdo it, but you’ll want to make sure you have the basics.

Room Furniture & Basics:

Bed (check if your room provides one)
Mattress protector & bed linens (sheets, pillowcases, blankets, comforter)
Pillows
Desk & comfortable chair
Laundry basket or hamper
Hangers for your clothes
Closet organisers (shelving, hooks, etc.)

Decor to Make It Feel Like Home:

Posters, photos, or prints
String lights or desk lamps for cozy lighting
Throw blankets or cushions
Personal keepsakes or a memento to remind you of home

Kitchen/Meal Prep:

Microwave, toaster, kettle (check if these are already provided)
Dishes, cups, utensils (if not available)
Food storage containers
Reusable water bottle or travel mug
Dish soap, sponges, and dish towels

2. Tech & Electronics:

Stay connected, stay productive, and stay entertained. You'll need the following tech gear:

Laptop, charger, and any necessary cables
Smartphone, charger, and accessories
Headphones (for studying or winding down)
Extension cords & power strips
Portable charger or power bank
Desk lamp (with an adjustable brightness for studying)
Printer (or access to a campus print center)

3. Study Supplies:

Whether you're studying for exams or working on a group project, having the right study tools is crucial.

Notebooks, pens, and pencils
Highlighters and sticky notes
Backpack or tote bag to carry your books
Planner or calendar for scheduling assignments and deadlines
Laptop or tablet for note-taking
Desk organisers for easy access to supplies
Whiteboard or corkboard (if you need a visual way to track deadlines)

4. Personal Care & Health:

Self-care is vital to staying healthy during your studies. Make sure to pack your personal care items:

Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant)
Skincare products (moisturizer, sunscreen, acne treatment, etc.)
Hair dryer, straightener, or curler (if needed)
First-aid kit (band-aids, pain relievers, allergy medicine, etc.)
Prescription medications and supplements
Water bottle to stay hydrated
Tissues and hand sanitiser

5. Clothing & Laundry:

Packing clothing for a year might seem like a big task, but you don't have to bring everything at once.

Seasonal clothing (check what climate to expect)
Comfortable clothes for lounging and studying
Dress clothes for presentations or interviews
Undergarments, socks, and pajamas
Shoes (casual, formal, and any specialty shoes like boots or sandals)
Jackets or outerwear
Laundry supplies (detergent, dryer sheets, lint roller)

6. Cleaning & Organisation:

Keeping your living space tidy will help create a comfortable environment to focus and relax.

Disinfecting wipes
All-purpose cleaner
Broom, dustpan, and mop (check if they’re provided)
Trash bags and a trash can for your room
Vacuum (if allowed)
Closet and drawer organisers

7. Documents & Important Items:

Keep all essential documents organised and easily accessible:

ID, driver’s license, or student ID
Health insurance card
Bank cards and/or student loan information
Emergency contact information
Class schedule, syllabi, and textbooks
Vaccination records or medical history (if needed)
Car registration and parking permit (if you’ll have a car)

8. Socialising & Exploring:

University life is about more than just studying — it's about building connections and discovering new activities.

Sports equipment for recreation (bike, tennis racket, etc.)
Board games or cards for hanging out with friends
A journal or diary to document your experience
A camera or phone with extra memory for memories
Map of the campus or local area (if you’re in a new town)

9. Miscellaneous Items to Consider:

These items aren’t essential but can come in handy as you adjust to life at university:

Umbrella or rain jacket
Small sewing kit for quick repairs
Reusable shopping bags (for grocery runs)
Extra phone charger or cables
A small safe or lockbox for valuables
Bike lock (if you're bringing a bike)
A small fan or heater (if your accommodation allows it)

10. Mental Health & Well-being:

Adapting to university life can be a rollercoaster ride, so don’t forget to prioritise your mental health.

Yoga mat or fitness equipment (for stress relief)
Comfort items (favorite snacks, teas, stress toys, etc.)
A cozy blanket or favourite hoodie
Support resources (university counseling services, wellness apps)

Tips for a Smooth Transition:

Start early: Don't wait until the last minute to pack! Make a list and start gathering items well in advance.
Be strategic with space: Dorm rooms can be small, so think about packing items that maximise space, such as collapsible storage bins or under-bed organisers.
Stay connected: Set up virtual or in-person meetups with family and friends before leaving. It helps to have a support network when you're settling in.

Final Thoughts: Make It Your Own

University is a time of self-discovery and growth, and making your space feel like home is an important part of that journey. By using this checklist, you’ll ensure that you have all the essentials to create a living space that suits your needs and reflects your personality.

Remember: A home away from home isn’t just about the things you bring with you. It’s about the memories you create, the people you meet, and the experiences that shape your university life. Make your new space your own, and enjoy this exciting new chapter!

Happy packing and best of luck on your university adventure! 🎓

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