Starting university is a big moment. You’re heading into a brand-new chapter full of freedom, late-night takeaways, new friends and a few responsibilities too. One of the first hurdles? Packing.
With so much to think about, it’s easy to forget a few essentials. To help make it easier, we’ve put together the ultimate list of what students say they actually used once they arrived at Uni. Let’s dive in:
1. Bedding
First things first, you need to sleep well. Duvet, pillows, sheets… they’re not the most exciting things to pack, but you’ll regret skipping them after a long day of lectures.
✅ Covered in the UKO Starter Kit:
- Duvet & pillows
- Fitted sheet, duvet cover & pillowcase
- Quilted mattress protector
2. Sliders (Trust us!)
You’ll wear these everywhere. Showers. Kitchen. Laundry room. Emergency fire drills at 2am. They're basically the unofficial student uniform.
🚫 Not included in the kit, so pack your own!
3. Towels
Bring a couple! One for the bathroom, one for emergencies or the gym. They take forever to dry in student halls.
✅ Included: Bath towel, hand towel & face
💡 Plus: A suction hook (because not every bathroom has one, and we’ve got you covered)
4. A dining set
Plate, bowl, mug, cutlery – all the basics. You’ll be surprised how many students turn up with nothing or think that the Uni will provide some of these essentials (easy to do!). Eating cereal from a saucepan is a rite of passage, but it doesn’t have to be.
✅ Covered in the UKO Complete Kit and customisable for 1, 2 or 4 people
💡 Microwave & dishwasher safe, too
5. Pots & Pans
We’re now really getting into the fun stuff. Whether you’re making pasta, ramen or just heating up soup, you’ll need a decent saucepan or two – plus a frying pan if you’re an expert cook. You don’t need a whole load (it’ll just take up space, but we’d recommend the below.)
✅ 2x Saucepans with lids, 1x Frying pan, 1x Non-stick baking tray (UKO’s got you covered with these). Not suitable for induction hobs, check your kitchen before you move-in!
6. A sharp knife – and a chopping board (again, trust us!)
Surprisingly overlooked. Firstly, you don’t need a full set, but a chef’s knife will go a long way. With at least one sharp knife, you’re covered – think onions or apples, either one you’ll be good to go – but you might struggle with a cutlery knife.
✅ 2pc stainless steel knife set (plus a utility knife) + chopping board in the UKO Kit, you’re welcome!
7. A handy little desk lamp
Not all Uni rooms have great lighting. A small lamp helps for late-night studying or winding down with a book. Bring your own, and maybe some fairy lights too to create that cosy, lived-in feel from day one.
8. Hangers!!!
Most halls give you a wardrobe, but no hangers. We know its bulky, but trust us, you’ll need more than you think.
✅ Or order your kit which includes 10x non-slip coat hangers included
9. Toiletries
Sounds obvious, but people forget these in the stress of packing. Start with minis (shampoo, body wash, soap) so you’re not caught short on day one, you can then take time to find your favourites.
✅ UKO Kit includes a mini wash kit to get you through the first few days
10. …Something that feels like you
Finishing off our list with one of our personal favourites. Whether it’s a photo, a blanket or your favourite mug, bring a little piece of home. It makes a difference, especially in those first few weeks.