Uni Essentials: What to take and what's included at Unite Students

Leaving home and moving into your student accommodation is an exciting and nerve-wracking time for first years. But deciding what to pack for uni doesn’t need to be.

Ensure you’ve got everything you need to settle in smoothly at your Unite Students accommodation with our uni essentials list. We’ve also listed everything included in our uni halls, so you’re not bringing anything you don’t need.

What to Bring: Your Bedroom Essentials

Your uni bedroom is your haven - the place you'll recharge after Freshers' Week, focus on your studies, and enjoy quiet downtime. Make it feel like home with these must‑haves:

Bedding

• Duvet

• Pillows

• Duvet cover & pillowcases (x2)

• Bottom sheets (x2)

• Mattress protector

Decor to Personalise Your Space

Create a room that reflects you and brings comfort when you need it most.

• Photos or prints

• String or fairy lights

• Lamps or soft accent lighting

• Plants and ornaments

• Cushions and cosy blankets

Other Personal Items

Bring what suits your lifestyle - everyone’s essentials are different.

• TV

• Smartphone + charger

• Bluetooth speaker

• Games console

• Tablet or e‑reader

• Hair dryer / straighteners / curlers

Clothing

You’ll have plenty of storage, so pack a range of outfits that make you feel confident and comfortable.

• Clothes for lectures, nights out & relaxing

• Coats & jackets

• Footwear (trainers, boots, slippers etc.)

• Activewear

• Bags, belts & accessories

• Jewellery

• Underwear & pyjamas

What’s Provided by Unite Students (Bedroom)

• Bed

• Bedside table

• Wardrobe & storage

• Shelves

• Curtains

• Full-length mirror

• Desk & chair

(Across Classic, Accessible, Premium and Ensuite room types.)

What to Bring: Study Area Essentials

You’ll spend more time studying than you think - so make your desk space somewhere you can stay focused and organised.

Study Must‑Haves

• Laptop + charger

• Keyboard & mouse

• Stationery (pens, highlighters, notebooks)

• Course books & study materials

• Sticky notes & cue cards

• Headphones

What’s Provided (Study Area)

• Desk

• Chair

• Shelving

• Desk drawers

What to Bring: Bathroom Essentials

Whether you have an ensuite or shared bathroom, these basics will keep you feeling fresh:

Bathroom Necessities

• Shampoo & conditioner

• Shower gel + loofah/washcloth

• Toothbrush & toothpaste

• Makeup remover

• Bath towels (x2)

• Hand towels (x2)

• Hair towels (if needed)

• Bath mats (x2)

• Razors

• Hand soap

• Toilet roll

• Air freshener

• Bathroom cleaning products

• Toilet brush

• Small bathroom bin

What’s Provided (Bathroom)

• Bathroom mirror

• Towel rail

• Washbasin

• Toilet

• Shower

• Toilet roll holder

What to Bring: Kitchen Essentials

Whether you're a confident cook or a total beginner, your kitchen kit will grow with you. Start with the basics and add more as you go.

Cooking & Eating

• Frying pan & saucepans

• Plates & bowls

• Mixing bowl

• Measuring jug

• Cutlery

• Oven tray or baking dish

• Sieve/colander

Tools & Utensils

• Spatula, wooden spoon, tongs

• Kitchen knives

• Chopping board

• Vegetable peeler

• Cheese grater

• Kitchen scissors

• Tin opener

• Corkscrew / bottle opener

Drinks & Storage

• Glasses & mugs

• Food storage containers

Cleaning

• Tea towels

• Oven gloves

• Cleaning products

What’s Provided (Kitchen)

• Fridge & freezer

• Oven & hobs

• Microwave

• Ventilation

• Kitchen table & chairs / breakfast bar & stools

• Kitchen bin

• Mop & bucket

• Dustpan & brush

• Vacuum cleaner