Autumn is approaching, uni is about to start, and we have to think about what to pack before moving in. Every place has its own quirks, so let me tell you some autumn Durham essentials so you don’t regret leaving anything behind.
1. Wear your colours: College merch
College merch is big here in Durham, and one of the best sellers are the puffers. They’re cute, warm, and if you don’t own one, you’ll regret it every time you see them on campus. Sweatpants are another hit, and most items on your college website are both practical and sentimental.
Lots of students add their initials for a personal touch. If you arrive light on warm clothes and you’re thinking of getting some merch, don’t panic because by late October you’ll get the chance to buy some. And yes, sometimes it feels like you’re betraying your college if you don’t rep the merch (ridiculous, but true).
2. Save your bank account: Thermos
Who doesn’t like a small coffee break between study sessions? Right? Well this is the best tip if you don’t fancy paying 25p for the cup alone at the Billy B cafeteria. If you’re a coffee addict, invest in a thermos early. It will keep your drink warm through long library nights, and by the end of the year you’ll have saved yourself a small fortune. Lazy or not, it’s worth it.
3. The Big Three: Cardigans, bombers, and boots
Knitted cardigans are your saviour in boiling lecture halls. Easy to throw over jeans, cozy for Billy B hours, and perfect for coffee dates at Flat White or Chapters. Last year, fitted cardigans were everywhere around Durham, but oversized ones are pretty timeless and they work wonders.
Did I say layers are key in Durham? Well, a leather bomber will be your best friend for sure around here. Either you wear it heading to your lectures, or covering up before a night out, this piece is a lifesaver. They’re warm, stylish, and versatile. Black is timeless, but brown paired with boots is unbeatable.
Speaking of leather, leather boots are non-negotiable. From Dr. Martens to biker boots, you’ll need something sturdy and waterproof for those rainy cobbled streets. Choose comfort and durability since you’ll be walking everywhere.
4. Survive social season: Electrolytes
Michaelmas is packed with club nights and socials. If you are not used to this rhythm, or you just look after your health, stock up on hydration helpers like Liquid IV or cheaper electrolyte powders. Making sure you are hydrated during and after clubbing will help you avoid massive hangovers and feeling sick – to a certain extent, don’t expect miracles if you went out hardcore. So either you bring it with you from home or you buy it there, I would say it always comes handy to have some just in case.
5. Scarves: Go big or go home
After walking around the streets of Durham for a while, I got to the conclusion that scarves are a whole personality. Why? Well you can find students wearing scarfs so small you might confuse them with a necklace, or so big you will not be able to identify the person wearing them. Whichever you choose, a good scarf will save you on a windy autumn day.
6. Headphones
Durham is a walking city. At first, you’ll love strolling through golden leaves, pretending you’re in a Harry Potter film. But once the rain sets in, the cobbles get slippery, and you’re about to catch your first cold, headphones become essential. Put on some music, romanticise your walks to your 9ams, and suddenly the morning doesn’t feel quite so bad.
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