What to pack for University - University of Birmingham

Moving into accommodation? You've probably already started thinking about what to bring with you. Deciding what to pack can be a bit tricky, but don't worry, we've got some top tips to help you get started.

Please note this list has been written with undergraduate UK and international students who'll be living in University accommodation in mind, but will provide a useful reminder for any student moving into new accommodation.

Our students' top tips

Psychology students Megan and Savannah have put together their top suggestions for what to bring with you to UoB.

What to pack for your first year at uni

What's already included?

If you're going to be living in University-owned accommodation, you can find out what'll l be provided in your accommodation by checking the inventories. If you're living in partner or private accommodation, check with your provider or landlord to find out what's included and what you need to bring.

Essentials

Confirmation of your arrival date and time, and the address (and directions) to your accommodation - For University-owned accommodation you can choose your arrival time in advance.
Money - the first instalment of your student loan isn't paid until teaching begins. If you do have a student loan, it's best to make sure you have the details of this with you. If you're an international student, make sure you have access to some British currency for your initial costs, but avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
Bedding and towels - if you're in University-owned accommodation you can buy a bedding pack from your accommodation site, or you can of course bring your own. The packs include two pillows, a duvet, and a duvet cover. You will have the option to purchase one through the Accommodation Pass. You can contact your site reception at The Vale, Pritchatts Park, or Selly Oak if you would like to know more, and they'll make sure it's the right size for the bed in your room.
Documents and personal details - make sure to keep these in a safe place.
Medications and medical information - if you take any medications, remember to bring these with you. Try to bring enough to last you until you'll be able to register with a doctor here. If you have any medical conditions or disabilities you may find it helpful to bring information about these with you (GP or consultants letters, copies of prescriptions etc.), particularly if you're an international student. If you wear glasses, a copy of your latest prescription might be a good idea too.
Student ID card - if your student ID card was sent to you in the post, remember to bring it with you! If it wasn't, you can collect it on campus.

Hand luggage essentials for international students

Travelling from outside the UK? There are some essential things you should bring in your hand luggage (which is safer than carrying them in your checked/hold luggage):

Your passport, including the vignette (visa sticker) for your arrival (if applicable).
A printed copy of your visa decision letter.
A printed copy of your University offer letter and Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).
A printed copy of information about your accommodation, which covers the duration of your stay.
A printed copy of information about the finances available to you in the UK.
A printed copy of your Tuberculosis (TB) certificate, if applicable.
A prepaid travel card to cover you until you are able to open a bank account.

You may want to keep copies of these documents on your phone too, as a backup. Make sure they are protected by a password or PIN so only you can access them. Printed copies are important in case anything happens to your phone/laptop.

If you need to bring prescribed medication with you, bring a translated copy of the doctor's note with you and carry it in its original packaging.

You should also think about bringing some emergency items in case your checked/hold luggage is delayed or lost. For example, a change of clothes, a toothbrush, UK travel adapters, any cables or chargers including for your phone, and small toiletries.

Students living in University-owned accommodation have insurance included in their rent through Endsleigh. Make sure you understand what is and isn't covered by the policy so that you can decide if it's sufficient for your needs. Find out more about your insurance cover.

What else to bring

There are lots of other things you'll want to bring to help you feel at home and ready to study. Think about what you'll need to bring with you, or what you might want to get when you arrive. There are a range of local shops where you can buy home goods, including the nearby Selly Oak Shopping Park and you'll be able to arrange online deliveries from most major retailers.

Settling in

Tea, coffee and snacks - whichever accommodation you are in, tea and biscuits are always a great idea.
Extra mugs - for making friends over a cup of tea and a biscuit.
Phone - don't forget your charger, and a plug adapter if you need one.
Pins - most rooms have notice boards, so you can customise these by pinning photos up.
Room decorations – little bits and pieces can help you feel at home.
Post-it notes - to leave messages for yourself or your flatmates.
Mini whiteboard - plan your schedule.

Day-to-day living

A kettle, toaster and iron - check your inventory to see if these are provided for you.
Pans, kitchen utensils, plates and cutlery - familiarise yourself with what’s already provided for you; how much you bring might also depend on whether you're mainly cooking for yourself or will have Student Living Plus.
Washing-up liquid and washing powder - bring ones right for you.
Bin liners and tea towels - these you can buy when you arrive.
Laundry bag - you might not want a bulky laundry basket.
Toiletries and a first aid kit - you may want to include some basic painkillers and medicines.
A bag or rucksack - carry books, devices, and stationery on campus.
A sports bag - for sporting activities or just hitting the gym.
Music, films and books - you'll want some time to relax.
Headphones - might be a good idea to avoid annoying your flatmates!
Blankets - your accommodation may be warmer or colder than you're used to at home, so layers are key.
Coat hangers - these are easy to forget.
Alarm clock - relying on your phone might not be the best idea!
Bathroom plug adaptor - Check with your accommodation if you have an electric shaver or toothbrush, you might need a two-pin adaptor for a normal plug socket.
A water bottle and reusable cup - save money and plastic waste by taking water with you.
Lunchbox - if you're self-catering, you might also find a lunchbox useful for taking lunch with you.
16-25 Railcard - the University has its own train station and many students use trains to get into the city centre, or to travel across the UK, so this can be a great way to save money. Full-time students over the age of 25 are also eligible.
TV Licence - Make sure you understand the rules around TV Licences and whether you will need one.
Plug adapters - if you're bringing electrical items from abroad make sure you have plug adapters to fit the British three-pin sockets.
Seasonal clothes and coats - the Great British weather can get wet and windy very quickly. Snow is also possible during the winter months.
Umbrella - invest in a good one as it can rain in every season!

Studying

Your laptop - if you plan to use one, and don't forget to bring any chargers or cables. There's Wi-Fi access in all University-owned accommodation. Remember you can download Microsoft Office for free on up to five devices.
A study lamp and desk accessories - as the nights get darker you might like having a lamp for your desk, and an organised desk will help you feel prepared for studying.
Paper, folders and notebooks - you'll need to provide your own stationery, so decide what works best for you.
Scissors and sellotape - it's surprising how often you'll end up using these!
Spare pens - these always seem to disappear, so lots of spare pens are a must.
Printer - some students prefer having their own printer, whilst others prefer to use printers on campus. You might want to wait and see if you think it'll be useful or not. Remember to factor in the cost of ink cartridges.

What not to bring

There are strict rules about what you can bring from overseas. See our information on arriving in the UK.
Your car - there's limited parking available and you'll need a permit.
Pets
Large amounts of cash - bring enough for your initial costs, but avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
Large electrical items and furniture - you will be able to source these for delivery once you've arrived.
Bulky suitcases - these can be difficult to store.
Too much! - remember that space in your accommodation will be limited, so don't bring everything.

Looking for more advice?

If you're looking for more detailed suggestions of what to bring, UCAS have produced a 'A big list of absolutely everything that you need to take to University' for students.