Moving into your new student accommodation is one of the most exciting parts of starting university life. Whether you’re living away from home for the first time or just switching to a new place, being prepared can make all the difference. At Abodus, we know how important it is to start off on the right foot — so we’ve created the ultimate checklist to help you move in smoothly and feel right at home.
The Basics: What You Really Need
Before you even pack your bags, here’s what you absolutely shouldn’t forget:
Important Stuff
These might be boring, but they’re essential:
- Photo ID (passport or driver’s licence) – this is absolutely necessary for getting into your room, if we can’t confirm who you are, we can’t let you in!
- Bank details and student finance info – this will probably be in your phone, but make sure any important emails haven’t ended up deleted or hard to find – this could be really important.
- NHS/medical documents (just in case!) – again, if you’ve got the NHS app, you’ll be ok, but if you’re coming from overseas, it’s important to bring anything that doctors might need (in case of emergency)
- Medication – we’re sure you don’t need reminding, but bringing any specialist medication you may need is essential.
Bedroom Essentials
Your new room is your home base — make it comfortable:
- Bedding (duvet, pillows, sheets – check your bed size!) – There’ll be some on arrival but who doesn’t want home comforts?
- Clothes hangers – again, there’ll be a couple in the wardrobe, but who ever has enough?
- Laundry basket – don’t use the floor-drobe!
- Extension leads and chargers – don’t be the person asking for a phone charger.
Bathroom Bits
Never get caught short:
- Towels – bring a couple and get a rotation going.
- Toiletries (toothbrush, shampoo, shower gel, etc.)
- Toilet roll – you’ll thank us later.
Kitchen Kit
You’ll need a few personal items:
- Plates, bowls, mugs and cutlery
- Frying pan & saucepan
- Chopping board and sharp knife
- Tupperware – leftovers = lifesaver!
- Tea towels and washing-up liquid – you may be able to share in a shared kitchen, but it’s always good to have your own.
- Your go-to snacks and drinks
Cleaning Supplies
We keep communal spaces clean and tidy, but it helps to have:
- Anti-bac spray or wipes
- Bin bags – especially important if you’re in a studio
- Dish sponge – if you have a couple, even better. One for dishes, one for surface wipedowns.
Pro Tip: Personalise Your Space
Once the essentials are sorted, make your room feel like yours:
- Photos of friends and family
- A plant or two
- Fairy lights or LED strips
Abodus rooms are designed to be a blank canvas — add your personality to make it a cozy home from home.
Don’t Forget the Social Stuff
University isn’t just about studying. Bring:
- A pack of cards – you’ll be surprised at how useful these can be.
- Speakers – no one wants to listen to music from their phone, but be respectful.
- Fancy dress or going out outfits – you’ll need them!
You’ll meet loads of new people in your accommodation — a little effort goes a long way!
If you’ve got a long way to travel
Is it all a lot to carry? Don’t worry, we’ve got you.
Our partnership with Unpacked means that you can order everything you need to make your room homely!
Even better, you can order everything to arrive ahead of you, so it’s all ready and waiting for you in your room.
Free Stuff
If you struggle to remember things, don’t worry! We’ve created a downloadable checklist for you to carry with you and check off as you pack!
