As someone going into her third year (terrifying), I know the feeling that comes with the end of summer. The weeks fly by so quickly until you realise that Freshers’ is just around the corner, and you start thinking about how little time you have.
The thing that overwhelmed me most as a fresher was packing. You can watch endless amounts of YouTube “packing for uni” videos, and still somehow feel like you’ve forgotten something.
Well, no need to fret, because luckily for you we’ve compiled a list of some unexpected items you may not think of bringing to university (beyond the obvious pots and pans).
1. A fancy dress or suit
Prepare yourself for how many black-tie events take place at Exeter, especially if you’re involved in any societies. Attending a ball is a common Saturday activity for Exeter students.
2. A reusable water bottle
This may seem like an obvious item, but I actually forgot to bring a water bottle to university. After a few days, I was shocked to realise I felt severely dehydrated…and then I realised why. A higher intake of alcohol combined with a decrease in water is definitely not an ideal combo.
3. An umbrella
Don’t forget – you’re in rainy England, as dreamy as Exeter can seem! Keeping a handy umbrella in your bag will save you from showing up to lectures completely drenched (and you definitely don’t want that to be your first impression x).
4. A pack of cards
Bringing cards to uni – or any type of board game – is an absolute must. It’s such an easy way to bond with flatmates, see who’s the most competitive, and invent some new drinking games…otherwise 6pm pres might start to drag and turn into desperately awkward small talk.
5. A portable speaker
If you’re the only flatmate who brought a speaker, they will love you for it. That love might show up as them using – or abusing – said speaker at every opportunity, but hey, at least you’re making friends.
6. A doorstop
This might seem obvious, but bringing a doorstop is incredibly useful and one of the best ways to encourage flatmate interaction. Simply leaving your door open when everyone’s moving in helps create a welcoming, communal atmosphere.
7. Fairy lights
Speaking from personal experience, you will go crazy if you only have the main light on 24/7 – take my advice and cover your room head to toe in fairy lights.
8. Noise-cancelling headphones
Yes, noise-cancelling headphones are great for studying, but sometimes the noise in student accommodation gets a bit too much, and you just need to block it out with your favourite tunes.
9. A painting kit
If you love a cute wine-and-painting night with the girls, I’d highly recommend investing in some paints. Beyond that, sometimes you just need to unwind and step away from screens, and painting at your uni desk can be one of the most therapeutic activities (or maybe I’m just boring).
10. Slippers
You might have already invested in a pair of crocs like every other uni student, but having a pair of slippers as indoor wear is a game-changer. Seeing your flatmates walk around the kitchen in slippers strangely makes the flat feel a lot more homely. Also, they’re perfect for keeping your feet toasty in the colder months.
11. A hoodie blanket
This ties into the “bring slippers” recommendation, but a hoodie blanket is the ultimate comfort after a long, tough day of lectures – it feels just like a warm hug.
12. Plastic bags
After a while, you’ll find yourself slowly getting tired of the walks into town for your massive food shops and will turn to Tesco delivery. The only thing is, when it arrives, make sure you have at least four plastic bags and a couple of extra hands ready to lug it back up to your accom.
13. Cellotape
You might have already thought of bringing Blu Tack to put up photos or posters, but have you thought of bringing cellotape? You’ll surprisingly need it more than you think – or, alternatively, your housemates will be frantically knocking on everyone’s door asking to borrow some to tape up a parcel they’re sending.
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