What to pack?

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Starting university is exciting, but packing for it? That can feel like a challenge. To make things easier, we’ve pulled together some simple tips and an example packing list to help you get organised. From must-have essentials to the little touches that make your room feel like home, here’s everything you’ll want to think about before move-in day.

Don’t overpack

Packing for university can feel overwhelming, and it’s tempting to bring everything you own, but every student will tell you the same thing: don’t overpack! Bringing too much just makes moving in harder and more stressful. A little planning really helps. Your room isn’t huge, and you’ll collect more stuff as the year goes on, so just start with the basics and buy extra bits later if you need them. Also, keep in mind that some of our student rooms are up a few flights of stairs with no lift, so whatever you pack, you’ll have to carry it up yourself.

Make a packing list

One of the best tips is to make a packing list before you start. Students often realise too late that they’ve left behind essentials and end up buying things they already had at home. A list keeps you organised, and it also helps to pack items by category – for example, putting all your kitchen bits together, bedding in one box, and bathroom things in another. It makes unpacking so much quicker.

Three people unpacking

Check what’s already in your room

It’s also worth checking what’s already included in your room. There’s no point bringing duplicates of things provided in your accommodation, so have a quick look online for what’s in your Canterbury or Medway room. That way you won’t waste valuable space.

Prioritise essentials you can’t easily buy

When it comes to essentials, focus on things you use every day and can’t easily replace, like chargers, favourite toiletries, or personal items. Don’t worry if you forget something small, like toothpaste – you can always buy it once you arrive. Just make sure you don’t forget important documents, such as your passport, driving licence, student papers, and bank cards or details.

Know your bed size

This one catches a lot of new students out. Not all accommodation has the same bed size – some are single, some are small double, and some are even extra-long! Check the size online before buying bedding, so you don’t waste money. (Tip: for extra-long beds, a king-size flat sheet usually works.)

Don’t pack too much kitchen stuff

Kitchen equipment is another area where people tend to go overboard. You don’t need a full set of everything – just bring enough to get started. Many students chip in with flatmates for shared items, and if you’re in catered accommodation with a meal plan you’ll only need the basics like crockery and cutlery. For self-catered, stick to one set of crockery and cutlery for yourself, some food storage tubs, a couple of pans, and a chopping board.

Family stood by a fully packed car

Make your room homely

Of course, packing isn’t just about the practical stuff. It’s also about making your room feel like home. Fairy lights, plants, photos, cushions, and blankets can make a huge difference, especially if you’re feeling homesick. Little touches that remind you of home – like ornaments or photos stuck up with white tack – can make your space much more comforting.

Don’t stress if you forget something

And remember, you’re not moving to the middle of nowhere! If you forget something, the chances are one of your flatmates will have it, or you’ll be able to buy it on campus or in a nearby supermarket. There’s no need to stress about bringing every single item you own.

Check the prohibited items list

Finally, there are a few things you definitely shouldn’t pack – like candles, mini-fridges, cube adaptors, or pets. They’re banned for safety reasons or because they can cause damage. Always check the prohibited list before packing so you don’t waste space bringing something you won’t be able to use.

Example Packing List

Still not sure where to start? Take a look at our example packing list below. It covers the essentials as well as the little extras that can make uni life easier. Use it as a guide and add or change things to suit your own needs.

Bedroom

  • Bed linen (duvet, pillows, pillowcases, bed sheets)
  • Blanket / throw
  • Hangers for wardrobe
  • Laundry bag / basket
  • Storage boxes

Kitchen Essentials (if self-catered)

  • Plates, bowls, mugs, glasses (just a couple of each)
  • Cutlery (forks, knives, spoons, teaspoons)
  • Saucepan, frying pan, baking tray
  • Chopping board
  • Kitchen knives
  • Scissors
  • Any utensils you like using (wooden spoons, a spatula, corkscrew, pizza wheel, etc.)
  • Measuring jug
  • Can opener / bottle opener
  • Kitchen linen (tea towels, oven gloves)
  • Food storage containers
  • Sandwich bags, foil, cling film
  • Reusable water bottle / travel mug
  • Kitchen cleaning supplies

Bathroom

  • Towels (bath and hand towels)
  • Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, deodorant, razor, hairbrush, hair ties, etc.)
  • Hand soap
  • Nail clippers, nail file, tweezers
  • Sanitary products
  • Toilet roll
  • Bathroom bin
  • Bath robe and flip flops/sliders (if there’s a shared bathroom)
  • Wash bag / shower caddy
  • Bathroom cleaning supplies

Clothes and Laundry

  • Everyday clothes
  • Going-out clothes
  • Warm coat / waterproof jacket
  • Light jacket / fleece
  • Comfy loungewear / pyjamas
  • Gym kit, swimwear (if you plan to do sports and activities)
  • Shoes (trainers, going-out shoes, slippers, boots)
  • Bags (a small one for nights out, plus a bag big enough to fit your laptop and books in for lectures)
  • Laundry detergent

Study Supplies

  • Laptop / computer / tablet and charger
  • Headphones
  • Phone and charger
  • Stationery, reading books, textbooks
  • USB stick / external hard drive (for backups)

Miscellaneous

  • Prescription medication
  • First aid kit (plasters, paracetamol, antihistamine, cold/flu tablets)
  • Important documents (ID, passport, driving licence, student documents)
  • Bank cards, bank details
  • Sunglasses / glasses / contact lenses
  • Hair appliances
  • Make-up for those who wear it
  • Umbrella
  • Reusable shopping bags
  • Portable speaker
  • Ethernet cable
  • Earplugs, eye mask
  • Decorations to make your room feel homely (photos, fairy lights, plants, posters)
  • Move-in day snacks and drinks

We look forward to welcoming you to Kent soon!