Heading off to university for the first time or as a returning student can be exciting and nerve-wracking. Whether you’re coming straight from high school or have taken some time off, entering higher education isn’t just about learning new things and getting that degree: it’s often a big lifestyle change too. For starters, if you’re moving out of home, you’ll need to pack and get those all-important uni essentials sorted before classes begin.

To help you get started, we’ve put together some helpful information and advice on the best essential items and technology you should have when going to university. And don’t worry – this won’t be on the exam!

Written by cook: Alice Zaslavsky

Takes: 45 mins

Makes: 12

These are my kind of melt-n-mix mini puddings that are easiest of all to make, perfect for sharing, and they’re gluten-free! Baking cakes and puddings is always best done in a conventional oven, which is why most fan ovens provide a “conventional” setting. That way, the batter doesn’t rise too quickly and crack on you. Luckily, even if this happens, once they’re cooled, you can mask any funny business with a decadent dollop of fluffy-cloud cream and crème fraiche, which you can whisk by hand, or set and forget in your stand mixer. Think of the flavour profile as an Irish coffee, in solid form. The espresso and whiskey balances brilliantly with the broody sweetness of couverture chocolate and cocoa. ‘Couverture’ refers to the quality of the chocolate, with a greater percentage of cocoa butter and finer texture, which gives it that rich, melt-in-the-mouth result we crave in chocolate desserts. Indeed, with the surprising pops of salted chocolate already gilding this lily, you’re welcome to leave the whiskey (and even the coffee) out entirely if making these with the kiddies, swapping in 50ml of just-boiled water instead.

Want to learn more about Alice? Check out our Cooking appliance hub!

Australian summers can get a little sweaty – long hot days and warm nights make it hard to stay cool. If you’re looking for a way to beat the heat, the best place to start is at home with the right heating and cooling system. From fans to air conditioners, there’s lots of ways to keep cool. If you’re ready to set up a home cooling system – or upgrade your current one – keep reading!

Wondering what to look for when buying a TV? There’s a lot to consider on your quest to find your dream screen, so we’ve made it simple by putting everything you need to know – including our top picks of the latest TVs from the biggest brands – in one convenient spot. Right here!

“My advice to anyone looking to upgrade their TV is to first consider three things – your room size and proportions, what you’ll be watching, and your ideal budget,” says Jason Tavoletti, The Good Guys Buyer – Televisions.

“Once you’ve nailed down those details, you’ll have a firm idea of which TVs will tick all the boxes for you, plus which TV accessories could turbocharge your viewing.”

From what size TV is best (hint: go big!) to the best TV for movie nights, mega gaming sessions and Grand Final footy, here is your essential TV guide.

For more TV inspo, check out our Big Screen TV Buying Guide.