The Ultimate Freshers’ Checklist: Essential Buys for a Smooth Start to University Life

• Author: Jesse Okiror, Aerospace Engineering BEng, School of Architecture, Technology and Engineering

So, you have made it to university, congrats! While you are probably daydreaming about endless freedom, the freshers’ week activities, and not having to answer to your parents anymore, there is the small matter of being prepared for this new chapter. Whether you are moving into halls or private housing, having the right essentials can make or break your freshers’ experience. Welcome to this new chapter, and hopefully I can help make it more fun by making sure you have packed all that you will need. 

Setting up your space: Must-have room essentials 

Your new room is your sanctuary, so making it feel like home is crucial. You will need more than just your clothes and toothbrush to get settled in, and I’m speaking from experience! 

Start with the basics: duvet, pillows, bed sheets, a blanket for the winter months, and a mattress protector. The mattress protector comes in very handy when you remember that you are not the first person to sleep on that mattress. Throw in some extra pillowcases and a cozy blanket will also come in handy for the late-night Netflix binges! 

As for lighting and decor, a desk lamp can make study sessions in your room easier on your eyes. Make your room cozier with LED strips or fairy lights, and add personal touches like pictures, posters, photos, and a plant or two (preferably minimal maintenance ones that will not die the minute you look away). 

There can be less storage space than what you’re used to at home, so you will need to be smart with it. Storage boxes that can be slotted under the bed, clothes hangers, and a few command hooks can help you make the most of your square footage. 

Study smarter: Tools and gadgets for academic success 

Having the right tools and gadgets can make your academic life a lot smoother. Your laptop, for example, could very well be your best friend, do make sure that it is reliable and has enough storage for all those notes, essays, reports, and presentations. Do not forget all the essential accessories like a laptop stand, mouse, and a keyboard if you fancy any of those. 

For those of you that prefer to write things down, a few notebooks, a planner, sticky notes, and writing tools such as pens and pencils are a must have. 

Depending on your course, it is worth finding out whether you require any tools and/or software that is specific to your course requirements too! 

Kitchen essentials: What every Fresher needs 

Unless you plan on surviving solely on takeout and instant noodles, you are going to need some kitchen essentials! 

You will need a basic set of pots and pans, a couple of sharp knives, and a chopping board. Add in some utensils like a spatula, wooden spoon, and a can opener. You do not need to bring a full dining set, but a few plates, bowls (including a microwave-friendly bowl), and mugs should see you through. You might also want to bring a travel mug for those early-morning lectures when you need to take your coffee to go, and do not forget cutlery! 

The halls will often provide a toaster and an electric kettle. However, if you are moving into private accommodation, you might want to consider adding those two items to your list. 

Stay Organised: Planners, Stationery, and More

University life is busy – lectures, coursework, assignments, social events, and other responsibilities, it can sometimes get a bit overwhelming. Keeping yourself organised is key to not just surviving but thriving! 

A good planner or diary is a lifesaver. Whether you go old-school with a physical planner or prefer a digital one, make sure you have something to keep track of all your deadlines, appointments, and events. 

Keep your workspace tidy with some essential desk accessories like file folders and pen holders. A whiteboard can be a great way of visually keeping track of important dates and reminders. 

Time management apps such as Google Calendar can also help you prioritise tasks and avoid the dreaded all-nighters. Trust me when I say that your future self will thank you.

Health and wellness: Essentials for staying fit and healthy

As I have stated previously, university life can get very busy and hectic, it is essential that you take care of yourself. This means looking out for your fitness and health! 

Even if you are not a gym fanatic, it’s a good idea to bring some basic fitness gear that you can use at your accommodation: a yoga mat, resistance bands, or even a pair of running shoes. The University of Brighton has excellent sports facilities including gyms, a swimming pool, and plenty of sports clubs for you to choose from, so take advantage of them! 

Having a basic medical kit with painkillers and plasters would also be a good idea. Your mental health is a top priority, and the university offers a lot of mental health support services to support your well-being. Be sure to pack whatever you need to help you relax – a favourite book, some music, or even a journal to help process your thoughts.

On-the-Go: Tech and Accessories to Keep You Connected

Staying connected, whether for academic purposes or for keeping in touch with friends and family, is crucial during university life. You will need a few essentials to keep you going on the go!  

Phone chargers and power banks are essential for keeping your devices powered up when you’re on campus, your phone dying in the middle of the day is the last thing that you need when trying to navigate yourself or connect with new friends.  

Headphones and earbuds can be a lifesaver when you need to focus in a distracting, noisy environment. Whether it’s the library, your shared kitchen or simply walking between lectures, staying tuned into your favourite podcasts or music can make all the difference! 

Cloud storage is great, but having a physical backup of important files never hurts. A USD drive or external hard drive can be a lifesaver, especially when it comes to storing the larger files

Comfort and Style: Clothing and Accessories for Campus Life

Layering is key when it comes to surviving the unpredictable UK weather. Pack plenty of basics which you can mix and match. Do not forget a waterproof jacket – British weather is notoriously fickle, and you do not want to be caught out in the rain! 

For international students coming from warmer climates – listen up. Winter, especially the first time, is no joke. Invest in a good-quality coat, preferably one that’s insulated and waterproof. You will also need some thermal layers, gloves, a scarf, and a hat. And let’s not forget woollen socks! 

Comfortable shoes are a must, you will be walking a lot more than you might think, from lectures to social events and everything in between.

Freshers Checklist Conclusion 

Starting university is a whirlwind of new experiences, and having the right essentials can make the transition smoother. From setting up you room to feel more like home to staying organised, this checklist has got you covered. While you cannot prepare for every eventuality, having these essentials on hand will help you focus on what really matters – making the most of your time at university. So, pack smart, keep an open mind, and enjoy the ride!