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Uni essentials: A definitive list of everything you'll need in September
Hangovers not included
If you're heading to university for the first time this September, HOORAY TO YOU FOR GETTING IN *claps*. Before you go, it's worth making a list of all the uni essentials you need to take with you, to freshers week, student halls and beyond.
From bedding and earplugs to a Stanley cup and stationery: we've made a definitive list of everything that will come in handy – besides the obvious clothes/ID/money/etc – for you to tick off as you go.
Understandably, the thought of uni is both exciting and nerve-wracking, but if you're all organised when it comes to packing everything you need, it can make the transition from mum and dad's house to shared accommodation so much smoother.
So, what are you waiting for? Here're 30 of the ultimate essentials to get you through...
Privy to the coquette aesthetic? Then feast your eyes on UO's super cute – and ultra-soft – white cotton duvet set that's embroidered with pretty, blue bows. It comes with matching pillow cases, and we love that the fastenings feature lacy ribbon details, too.
With back to back classes, and running between the library and coffee dates, hydration is absolutely key – and who doesn't love a Stanley cup? It holds just under 1L of ice cold water for over 12 hours, so you'll never run low, and you won't have to worry about spills because the genius lid is leakproof.
Keep ultra organised with Papier's academic planner. It comes with dedicated sections for timetables, deadline trackers, yearly and monthly overviews so you'll never miss a beat. Choose between a classic or spiral binding and 13 colourways.
If it's one thing you're bound to take everywhere, its your rucksack with all the essentials – so why not upgrade your day-to-day bag for this sleek, leather tote instead? We love the smooth suede finish that's a huge trend for AW24, and the thick, adjustable strap sits comfortably on your shoulder.
The last thing you need are crushed clothes when you're in a rush to your next class, and who has the time (or space) for whipping out an ironing board set? That's where Steamery's handheld steamer comes in. It heats up in an instant so you can look your best in minutes.
In case your laptop dies? No, but seriously, you might fancy a screen time break while studying and these guys are your best friend for that.
For noisy situations when you need the best sleep ahead of a big day, or moments where you just need to zone in and get some studying done – you'll thank yourself for grabbing a pair of comfortable Loop Earplugs.
OK, you might think this is a bit dramatic, but at least make sure you've got some plasters and especially some paracetamol. You're definitely going to need some during freshers.
Why not buy all of your uni kitchen essentials in one place with this super helpful kit? With three pans, a cutlery selection, chopping board and utensils, you've got everything you need to whip up some late night meals.
What could be more essential than an air fryer? Perfect for those moments when you need a quick and easy, hot meal. Cook anything you'd pop in a traditional oven, and it will be ready in 15 minutes with minimal oil required.
Did we mention pasta bake? But seriously, these utensils will come in handy when it's your turn to cook the annual Sunday dinner (that lasts 3 weeks) for the rest of the flat.
What are you going to eat your pasta bake with if you don't have your own cutlery? You're going to need your own set, trust, because things can get a little heated if you keep "borrowing" knives and forks from your housemates.
For all those pasta bakes you plan on making, obviously.
Got a small room but you've got loads of stationery and books you need for your course? Not to worry, this desk organiser is the perfect solution and will keep all of your uni work organised and in one place.
Student accommodation is known for not being the cleanliest of environments, so make you stock up on hand soap so you're not a risk of running out anywhere in the flat.
ARLINENS Hotel Quality Box Stitched Microfibre Mattress Topper 5cm Super soft Heavy Fill Orthopaedic Anti Allergy Quilted Mattress Topper (Double)
A mattress topper is a must if you're worried that your bed won't be super comfy. Because let's face it, uni digs aren't exactly the Hilton, and chances are you're going to be sleeping on an old lumpy mattress that 7 other freshers have had the privilege of calling their own.
For when you're out and about make sure you've always got a mini hand sanitiser in your book bag or clutch - not all nightclubs have soap, yano.
An essential for Netflix (and that thing called studying). Jokes aside, you're going to need a good quality computer to last you through your three (or four, or more) years at uni, and Apple is always a trusty choice.
Laptop chargers, phone chargers, and of course, LOTS of fairy lights, you're going to need some extra electricity so you can get your room looking nice and cosy for all those study nights and Netflix binges.
If your bedroom in halls doesn't come with one, you're deffo going to need a desk lamp. For all those late-night study (Netflix) sessions you plan on doing, right?
Dusty Baxter-Wright is an award-winning journalist and the Entertainment and Lifestyle Director at Cosmopolitan, having previously worked at Sugarscape. She was named one of PPA’s 30 Under 30 for her work covering pop culture, careers, interiors and travel, and oversees the site’s Entertainment and Lifestyle strategy across print, digital and video. As a journalist for the best part of a decade, she has interviewed everyone from Louis Theroux and Channing Tatum to Margot Robbie and Ncuti Gatwa, while she has also spoken on Times Radio and BBC Radio. You can find her on Twitter and Instagram here.
Sophie Williams is a Freelance Journalist and Copywriter, covering everything from Fashion to Entertainment to music, Lifestyle and Features. She has interviewed a range of musical artists and authors including Alyssa Edwards, Courtney Barnett, Confidence Man, The Vaccines, Loyle Carner, Gabrielle, and John Niven, and has written for publications like Metro, Reader's Digest, ITV's Woo! and Vice’s NBGA. She is also working on a book for HarperCollins about Taylor Swift, due to be published in 2024.
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