Checklist: everything you need to take to Scape

Going to university can often mean overpacking things you don’t really need—or, on the flip side, leaving important items behind. To make the packing process a lot easier, we’ve put together an exhaustive list of the most important things to bring for check-in day.

In the first few weeks, you’ll need to have copies (original, paper, and digital) of all your key documents ready, including your passport or driving licence, official university documents such as your acceptance letter, Student Finance documents, your course acceptance letter, and your bank details and bank card.

It’s also handy to have a few passport-sized photos and your National Insurance card on hand for registration and identification purposes.

Having these documents organised in a dedicated folder or wallet can save you a lot of stress, especially when setting up things like your student ID, university registration, or local GP registration. You’ll also need them for opening a student bank account if you haven’t already done so, or when applying for part-time jobs.

Make sure to store digital copies securely on your phone or cloud storage as a backup in case you misplace the originals.

Getting these essentials sorted early will make your move-in day smoother and help you settle into university life with one less thing to worry about.

These are the essential bedroom items you’ll need to make your new space feel like home — but you may want to add to this list depending on your preferences.

Start with the basics: a cosy duvet, duvet covers, fitted sheets (don’t forget those!), pillows, and pillowcases, which are often included in your duvet set.

You’ll also need plenty of clothes hangers — they tend to sell out quickly in local shops during move-in season — and a laundry basket to help keep your room tidy.

It’s also worth packing a mattress protector for extra comfort and hygiene, plus a few decorative touches like cushions, throw blankets, or fairy lights to make your room feel warm and personal. Don’t forget a small bedside lamp or reading light for those late-night study sessions, and perhaps a door hook or over-the-door organiser for extra storage.

Having these essentials sorted will help you settle in quickly and create a comfortable space that feels truly your own.

These are the much-needed bathroom essentials you definitely don’t want to forget — especially since you’ll have them all to yourself. Start with the basics like your toothbrush and toothpaste, towels, shower gel, shampoo and conditioner, and a hand wash for everyday use.

A bath mat is also a must-have to keep your bathroom floor dry and clean, while a mini bin and toilet roll are often overlooked but very handy to have from day one. Don’t forget a toilet brush and some cleaning supplies to keep your space fresh and hygienic.

You’ll also want to pack your personal toiletries, such as deodorant, skincare products, razors, or any other daily essentials you use.

If you’re living in an ensuite, consider adding a shower caddy or small shelf organiser to keep everything tidy. Having these items ready will make your bathroom feel comfortable, functional, and completely your own from the moment you move in.

If you’re living in an en suite and already know your flatmates, it’s a great idea to check what everyone is bringing and what you might be happy to share. That way, you won’t end up with duplicates taking up valuable space in the kitchen.

While this list covers all the essentials, your kitchen setup doesn’t have to be limited to just these items — you can always add extras once you’ve settled in and figured out what you’ll use most often.

Start with the basics: plates, bowls, mugs, and glasses for everyday dining, along with cutlery, chopping knives, and a sturdy chopping board. You’ll also want to bring a kettle and toaster, a wooden spoon, spatula, tin opener, cheese grater, scissors, and a bottle opener — all the small but essential tools that make cooking easier.

Don’t forget saucepans and frying pans (just make sure they’re induction hob compatible, made with a magnetisable metal like cast iron or steel), oven trays, oven gloves, and a few tea towels.

Finally, stocking up on kitchen roll, cling film, and foil will make cleaning and food storage much more convenient. With these essentials sorted, you’ll have everything you need to cook, share meals, and feel right at home in your new kitchen.  

Miscellaneous

A few random items might slip your mind when packing up your things, so here’s a list of those handy in-between essentials that can make a big difference once you’ve moved in.

·      An air freshener will keep your room smelling fresh, while spare batteries are always useful for things like remotes or fairy lights.

·      Don’t forget an umbrella for those inevitable rainy days, and a desk mirror for quick touch-ups or getting ready in the morning.

·      Pack your razors, a comb or brush, and a cosy bathrobe for comfort, plus a hot water bottle for those chilly evenings.

·      It’s also worth bringing some practical extras like Sellotape, extension cables, and spare wires, such as an Ethernet or HDMI cable.

·      A small sewing kit might seem old-fashioned, but it can be a lifesaver for quick clothing fixes.

·      These little additions might not seem essential now, but you’ll be glad you packed them once you’ve settled into university life.