Are you preparing to move into your university accommodation soon? If so, you’ve probably read tons of articles telling you what to bring to uni with you. You’ve probably got a checklist all ready.
Students always overpack, usually ending up sitting in the car for hours with a massive cardboard box on their laps.
You really don’t need half of the things you end up taking to uni. So, to limit the stress of moving-in day, I’ve compiled a list of things that you really don’t need to take with you.
Clothes for every season
I’m not even kidding when I say that I brought my ENTIRE wardrobe contents with me when I came to uni in first year. I added clothes into the pile with a ‘just in case’ mindset. Most students end up going home for Christmas, so they usually use this time to rotate their wardrobe. When you’re moving in, summer is over. Just pack those autumn/winter outfits because the UK weather at this time of year will require nothing else.
Food
Your parents will probably overthink everything and insist that you take all the essentials with you. I was made to do a food shop at home before I went, so I could take all of those food cupboard essentials with me. Yes, you probably won’t feel like doing a big food shop on moving in day, but you can buy all of your essentials once you arrive, so please don’t take them with you. You’ll be needing the car space.
Hundreds of potted plants
I know you’ve already convinced yourself that you need hundreds of plants in your room to ‘make yourself at home.’ The truth is, there are much more important things to take with you than a cactus. You won’t even end up watering the plants and they’ll all be dead before you know it. A few small artificial plants are fine, but there’s no need to go over the top.
Loads of table wear
You might envision sitting down at the dining table with a freshly prepared meal but, in reality, you’ll be eating off the same plate every day for ease. You really don’t need a whole new dinner set! I ditched normal plates completely and started buying paper ones so I wouldn’t have to wash up as much. Welcome to the student life!
An iron and vacuum
How are you planning to fit these in your car, may I ask? Student accommodation usually provides each flat with a shared vacuum and iron, which is just perfect. Oh, and just so you know, you won’t use them more than several times a year anyway. Yes, that’s right. If you envision a life of glamour as a student, think again!
A car
Recently passed your driving test and want to show off your new wheels at uni? This is so not practical. There will be nowhere to park your car at your accommodation or on campus, so you’ll be pretty much stuck in your car. Imagine if every student brought their car with them? Absolute chaos. Just get the bus or train if you need to go anywhere!