Your first uni class is one of those moments that feels bigger than it probably is, you wake up early, overthink your outfit, triple-check your bag, and somehow still feel like you’ve forgotten something. Everyone around you seems to have it together, carrying shiny new laptops and colour-coded planners, while you’re wondering if turning up with a pen and hope counts as preparation.
Let’s skip the Pinterest checklists and influencer “uni essentials” hauls. You don’t need a pastel pencil case with ten highlighters or a bag stuffed with stationery you’ll never use. Here’s the realistic list, what’s actually useful, what you’ll end up forgetting, and what no one mentions but you’ll wish you’d known.
- A notebook you’ll actually use
Start with one good notebook, not ten different ones for each module that’ll end up half-empty. You’ll soon realise most people don’t have time (or motivation) to keep up with that system. Choose something durable, light, and easy to flick through later when exams hit.
Tip: your first lecture will probably feel overwhelming, and half of what’s said might not make sense yet. Don’t try to write everything. Instead, jot down key ideas or things the lecturer emphasises, those offhand comments like “this will come up again later” are gold.
- A reliable pen (and a spare)
Yes, it’s basic. But there’s always someone who forgets, and they’ll give you that look, you know, the “please save me” face five minutes into class. Just bring a pen (or two). It’s a small thing that saves you from unnecessary stress.
If you’re a stationery lover, sure, bring your fancy pens. But honestly? Any pen that writes smoothly without leaking on your notes is a win.
- Laptop or tablet (if that’s your style)
If you prefer typing, bring your laptop, but only if you’ll actually focus with it. The temptation to tab over to Netflix or scroll during slow parts is real. Some people find they retain information better when handwriting, others prefer typing because it’s faster and neater. There’s no “right” way, just do what works for you.
And please, charge it the night before. Outlets in lecture halls are rare and hotly contested.
- Water and snacks (trust me on this one)
You’ll underestimate how draining those first few classes are. Between getting lost on campus, social anxiety, and adjusting to new schedules, your energy crashes faster than you think. A water bottle and a small snack, banana, protein bar, nuts, can save your focus (and your mood).
No one talks about how loud your stomach can be in a quiet lecture hall until it happens to you.
- Your student ID
It’s easy to forget in the first week, but you’ll need it more often than you think, for entering buildings, borrowing library books, or even buying food at student discounts. Keep it somewhere accessible, not buried under five layers of stuff at the bottom of your bag.
- Earphones
They’re not technically “class essentials,” but they’re peace-of-mind essentials. Whether it’s zoning out between lectures, blocking out noise on the bus, or avoiding awkward silence while waiting outside a room full of strangers, earphones are a must.
- A folder or laptop sleeve for loose papers
Yes, lectures are mostly digital now, but some tutors still hand out printed materials or expect you to bring physical copies of worksheets. Having a thin folder or document wallet stops your bag from turning into a paper graveyard.
- A comfortable bag (don’t underestimate this one)
You’ll be carrying it a lot. Between lectures, the library, and maybe the gym or society events, your bag will basically become your mobile storage unit. Choose something that fits your laptop, notebooks, and water bottle, but still feels comfortable on your shoulders.
- A charger or power bank
Even if you swear your laptop battery “lasts all day,” it won’t when you need it most. Bring a charger or a small power bank, it’ll save you during back-to-back lectures or long library sessions.
Final thought:
Forget the picture-perfect first day. Pack the basics, bring a little patience, and let yourself ease into it. You’ll laugh at how stressed you were about “forgetting something” once you realise most people forgot half their timetable.
