Packing for university can be a chaotic experience. While it is true that people tend to overpack, bringing with them unnecessary supplies, here are some things often forget to pack that come in handy for your first few weeks.
Medicine
As much as I tried to deny it, freshers’ flu is very real. It is essential to pack lozenges, cold and flu meds, and something for headaches. Pocket tissues can also be a lifesaver when everyone is sneezing and coughing during lectures.
Make sure to pack enough of your prescription medicines too, the GP can get quite busy during the first few weeks!
Hangers
My local Argos was probably sick of seeing me with the number of trips I did for hangers.
Pro tip: Avoid thick, wooden hangers if you can. Thinner ones definitely help avoid making your closet look ridiculously full.
Scissors
Speaking from personal experience, I went through the entire unpacking process without scissors, and would not recommend anyone doing the same thing. Make sure you get yourself a sturdy pair of scissors to help cut through all the boxes and packaging you used while moving!
If you are self-catered, consider getting yourself a separate pair of kitchen scissors for food.
Laundry basket
IKEA bags are efficient, but definitely not as efficient as a laundry basket. Getting yourself a collapsible laundry basket not only makes your room look more put together, but is easier for when you move during university, and easy to take back once you’re done.
Extension cords
There are only so many devices your accommodation outlets can handle. Bringing an extension cord is a game-changer, especially for days where you forget to charge your laptop and phone the night before a day packed with lectures.
Tip: Don't overpack
While I definitely do not recommend overpacking (keep in mind you only buy more things when you get there), these are just some of the essentials to add onto your checklist.
If you’re still at the accommodation-hunting stage, make sure you check out the AFS website. Happy packing!
