Packing for Uni – Tips and Advice

If, like many others, you’re just starting your university experience it may just be dawning on you how much stuff you actually own… let’s face it, spacious isn’t a word often used to describe halls of residence, so it’s time to start thinking about packing…

Start clearing before you start packing

Have a clear out before you start packing. Go through your clothing, books, games, shoes, etc. and see if there’s anything that you don’t use. When space is limited, there’s no point taking a whole bunch of stuff you no longer want, need, or use.

If you find that you do use everything you own but it still won’t fit in your room at halls, it’s worth looking into a self-storage unit. Many storage units will offer student storage – with some even offering boxes and a removal service if you need it.

Avoid packing dirty laundry

If you can, try and avoid packing dirty laundry. The last thing you want while in the middle of unpacking all your belongings is to have to try and squeeze in a load of washing too!

Sometimes there’s no way to avoid packing dirty laundry though – in which case just make sure it’s kept separate from your clean clothes.

Get your boxes right

Make sure you’re using sturdy boxes – this doesn’t necessarily mean buying new ones, just try not to use any that are too flimsy. And don’t overfill them either… there’s no good having a box that nobody can lift!

Try and keep your boxes ordered and labelled. It just saves you having to rummage through every box to try and find what you’re looking for.

 

 

 

Consider your breakables

Whether you’ve got a favourite mug that you want to take or a lamp that’s going to help you through those all-nighters… make sure you wrap it well. Unwrapping a shattered object is only ever going dampen the mood.

Plan for the holidays

For most, the holidays will mean you have to pack up all your stuff again, take it home and unpack – only to pack it up again when you’re heading back to uni.

Remember how we mentioned a self-storage unit earlier? This is another reason to invest in one. They’re available for as little as £5 a week and will mean you don’t have to worry about dragging everything home for the holidays.

With packing covered, it’s also worth looking at what essentials you should be taking with you…

   Your bedding – including your duvet, pillows, and actual bedding. Firstly, it helps limit how homesick you might get and secondly, it beats having to use the ones supplied by your uni (if they even supply them).

   Towels – goes without saying, really. Take a couple of bath towels and hand towels.

   Lamp – if your halls don’t supply a lamp, it’s worth getting one. It doesn’t have to be expensive; it just needs to get the job done.

   Laundry basket – for obvious reasons.

   Your favourite coffee cup – it’s a little home comfort but if you plan on having a lot of late nights and early mornings, it’s going to become a lifesaver too.

   Electricals – Don’t forget any chargers! It’s also worth taking an extension lead too, just to get more plugs in the room.