🧳 Start Here: The Ultimate University Packing List (Parent-Approved by WIWIKAU)

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Start Here: University Preparation Hub (What Parents Actually Recommend)

Before you start packing (read this)​

This is what WIWIKAU parents consistently say:

• Most people buy far too much
• Students use less than expected
• The simplest things are often the most useful

If you only read one thing, make it this list below


Start with the packing list below, or explore these parent-approved resources:

Printable University Packing Checklist
Most Recommended Uni Essentials (According to WIWIKAU Parents)
Student Food Staples List
Student Budget Planning Guide
Best Student Discounts for 2025
Freshers Games & Icebreakers
Open When Letters Guide


Packing for university can feel surprisingly emotional. One minute you’re buying bedding, the next you’re wondering how this happened so fast.
If you’re worried about forgetting something important, you’re not alone. Thousands of WIWIKAU parents and carers have been exactly where you are, and this checklist pulls together what actually matters (and what really doesn’t).

This guide is written by parents and carers , for parents and carers , based on real experience, not glossy marketing lists.
This list is updated regularly based on feedback from over 95,000 WIWIKAU parents and carers


Clothing & Accessories

• Underwear
• Socks
• Bras
• Sleepwear
• T-shirts & jumpers
• Clothes for all seasons
• Warm coat & hat
• Jeans
• Interview outfit
• Shoes & trainers
• Sportswear
• Dressing gown

Bathroom Essentials

• Toiletry bag
• Bath towels
• Toothbrush & toothpaste
• Soap or shower gel
• Deodorant
• Shampoo & conditioner
• Flip flops or sliders
• Hair brush
• Styling tools
• Make-up
• Shaving kit
• Toilet roll

Study Essentials

• Mobile phone & charger
• Laptop & charger
• USB / memory stick
• Pens & notebooks
• Academic year diary
• Sturdy backpack

Study extras
(Many students don’t need all of these, check course requirements first.)

• Portable charger
• Printer, paper & ink (check first)
• Folders
• Highlighters & Post-it notes
• Portable speaker

Bedroom Essentials

• Duvet
• Pillows
• Sheets
• Mattress protector
• Duvet covers (x2)
• Wash basket
• Waste bin (not with holes)
• Ear plugs
• Door stop (moving in day only)
• Command hooks
• Preferred decorations
• Room fan

Kitchen Essentials
(Check accommodation inventory before buying)

• Saucepans
• Frying pan
• Oven trays
• Tin opener & bottle opener
• Cutlery
• Plates & bowls
• Glasses, mugs & travel cup
• Food storage containers (freezer/fridge)
• Sharp knives
• Vegetable peeler
• Colander
• Cheese grater
• Wooden spoons
• Oven gloves
• Washing-up liquid & tea towels
• Cling film & tin foil
• Store cupboard basics Full list here

Laundry

• Wash basket
• Washing capsules & fabric softener
• Colour run sheets (use inside laundry nets)
• Fabric freshener (emergencies!)

Essential Documents

• Passport
• Passport photos
• Driving licence
• NHS medical card
• National Insurance number
• Insurance policies
• Student loan information
• University accommodation letter
• University acceptance letter
• Bank/debit card
• Rail cards

Extras

• Well-stocked first aid kit
• Cold & flu medication
• Prescription medicines
• Under-bed storage
• Door hooks
• Extension leads
• Bedside lamp
• Drawing pins

What parents say was a waste of money​

• Too many clothes
• Fancy kitchen gadgets
• Excess stationery
• Bulk toiletries
• Over-decorating rooms

What they were glad they packed​

• Extension leads (always!)
• Mattress topper
• Laundry basket
• Basic kitchen kit
• A fan

Prefer a printable version?

You can download the full WIWIKAU packing checklist

Printable list here