Essential Items For University Students

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 for the first time. And don’t worry – this won’t be on the exam!

What To Consider When Starting University

University life is a little different from school or work life. Studying and attending classes will likely be your priority, but there’s also the social side of things, exams and even part-time employment to support yourself. To find the right essential items for university, first, start with a simple university checklist to make sure you’ve considered all the different situations you might find yourself in.

Important Documents

Tech and Electrical Items

Stationery

Bedroom

Clothing

Bathroom

- Passport

- Bank cards

-Accommodation details

- Bank account details

- Computer

- Headphones

- USB Flash Drive

- Chargers

- Speakers

- Pens and Pencils

- Notebooks

- Highlighters

- Post-it notes

- Study Books

- Sheets

- Blankets

- Pillows

- Towels

- Desk lamp

- Fan

- Casual clothing

- Shoes

- Fancy dress

- Watch

- Hairdryer

- Toothbrush

- Soap

Everyone’s list will be slightly different depending on what items you already have and the living situation you’re moving into, but it’s important to plan ahead so you’re prepared for anything. We’ve got some great uni deals for students on key items, so make sure you check out the deals and start building your wishlist.

Laptop Vs Tablet For Your Uni

There are various benefits in using either a laptop, tablet or iPad for your uni work. While laptops may have a bigger screen and keyboard, you might prefer to use a touchscreen instead on a tablet or laptop. It also depends on what you're studying and which programs you may need to use. If you’re ever unsure, check with your uni for clarity and specific advicehere are a few uni essentials we think would easily fit into your tech lineup:

• Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ Wi-Fi 128GB - Grey: experience lightning-fast performance and seamless multitasking, while studying in style with 128GB of storage, providing ample space for apps, photos, and media.

• HP Pavilion Plus 14" EVO i5 16GB 256GB Laptop: this slim, durable, and lightweight laptop effortlessly fits into your bag, yet delivers impressive performance with its powerful Intel Evo i7 processor. 

• Asus Vivobook 15.6" i5 8GB 256GB Laptop: this Asus laptop packs a punch with its fast processor, ample memory, and vivid display, perfect for your studies.

If you're after a tech companion that wears multiple hats, a 2-in-1 laptop might be your go to. It seamlessly toggles between tablet and laptop modes, offering you the flexibility for various tasks, including unleashing your artistic side on a potential digital canvas.

Top Pick: Lenovo Yoga 7i EVO 14" Touchscreen i7 16GB 512GB 2-in-1 Laptop

Essentials Items For All University Students

No matter what you’re studying, there are a few uni essentials that every returning or first-time student will need. So, when you’re planning your list of things to buy for university, you might consider factoring these items into your budget.

Laptop

This should be near the top of your ‘what to take to uni’ list. Depending on your course of study, you might choose desktop or laptop computer or go more portable and get an iPad or tablet. The best computer for university is likely to be the one that’s the most flexible and supports all the amazing work (and play) you’re going to do.

When it comes to laptops, check out the IdeaPad Slim 3 15" i3 8GB 512GB Laptop It’s lightweight and has an awesome 8 hours of battery life (basically all day) you can write those essays in style without rushing to find a charging point. But if you’ve got your eye on a tablet, take a look at the Apple iPads. You can take handwritten notes on it with the Apple Pencil (bought separately) and even attach a keyboard, turning it into a laptop. This is a great option if you’re a visual learner too, as you can take photos as you go using the iPad’s 8-megapixel back camera.

Top Pick: IdeaPad Slim 3 15" i3 8GB 512GB Laptop

Laptop Bag

To keep your computer or tablet safe, it’s a good idea to invest in a computer bag. They come in a range of different fabrics and styles, plus most bags also have room for your notebooks and stationery. A great example of this is the AGVA 15.6" Clamshell Laptop Briefcase. It has a large mesh internal pocket plus a removable shoulder strap for when you’re on the go. It’s stylish, durable and perfect for keeping your uni computer protected.

Alternatively, if you’re toting around a lot of books and other supplies, check out the Dell 15" Premier Slim Notebook Backpack. You can slide your laptop into the back and still have room for everything else you need to dominate your day!

Top Pick: AGVA 15.6" Clamshell Laptop Briefcase

Hard Drives

One fear a lot of students have is losing their work – especially on a laptop or other device. Make sure that doesn’t happen to you by investing in a USB or hard drive to back up your precious work. You can attach a Samsung 128GB Bar Plus USB 3.1 Flash Drive to your keychain so it’s always with you and that way you have peace of mind that you’ve got a backup should something happen to your laptop.

Top Pick: Samsung 128GB Bar Plus USB 3.1 Flash Drive (Champagne Silver)

Chargers And Battery Packs

Similar to backing up your work, make sure you’ve got the right computer accessories for your devices when you’re studying. If you’re in the Apple universe, having a spare Apple 60 W USB-C Charge Cable (1M) could be a lifesaver when you’re working on campus to keep your iPhone or iPad charging while you’re busy researching. Similarly, it can often be difficult on campus to find a free spot to charge your devices. Bringing along a Cygnett ChargeUp Explorer 8k Power Bank is a game-changer for staying juiced up on the go. Whether it's your laptop, phone, or gaming device, this powerhouse ensures you stay connected while hitting the books. And here's the kicker – with detachable solar panels, you've got an endless power source. Ideal for soaking up some sun during that well-deserved coffee break.

Top Pick: Cygnett ChargeUp Explorer 8k Power Bank

“Studying and attending classes will likely be your priority, but there’s also the social side of things, exams and even part-time employment to support yourself.”

Headphones

A pair of high-quality headphones can help you get in that productive study zone, especially if you’re working at uni surrounded by distractions. If you’re an Apple fan, you might like to check out Apple AirPods. These super discreet earphones have crystal-clear sound and allow you to take calls via their built-in microphone.

If reducing noise and finding some quiet is your goal, then the Sony Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones are a great option. They’re wireless and have intelligent audio technology designed to help you block out the world. You can even create personalised listening settings that allow you to listen to your tunes and hear what’s happening around you at the same time!

Top Pick: Sony Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones

Printer

If you need to print your study notes or reference materials out at home, then it could be beneficial to invest in a printer. We’ve got a wide range of printers, paper and ink for every budget, all from well-known brands like Canon, Brother and HP.

Top Pick: HP Deskjet 2723e AIO Printer

Moving Away From Home For University

If you’re also moving out of your family home to attend university, there are other items you’ll have to consider adding to your uni essentials list. You might need to get some bigger items, like a washing machine or fridge, but don’t forget to think about the little things too. Start by asking yourself: what do I use every day at home? Often the first thing that comes to mind is food!

Kitchen Essentials

Your ‘what to take to uni’ list isn’t complete without adding a few key small kitchen appliances. If you’re sharing with other people, make sure you check to see what kitchen essentials they already have so you don’t double up. But if you’re living on your own, here are a few items you might want to consider to turn your new house into a home:

• NUTRIBULLET Mega Pack 900 Watt: get your morning smoothie ready with this powerful and versatile blender. You can also make salsas, sauces and soups in it too!

• Nespresso Vertuo Next Deluxe****: if you like your morning coffee, then this Nespresso machine is a must-have. Make cafe-quality lattes with the frother and clean up in a flash (it’s super easy to wipe down and keep tidy).

• Breville Bit More Plus 4 Slice Toaster: a simple and quick breakfast of avocado on toast is made a breeze with this toaster from Breville. Cook four slices at once and keep an eye on things with its lift and look feature.

• Breville Soft Open Stainless Steel Kettle: get your tea fix with this powerful 1.7 L kettle. It has a stainless-steel finish (easy to wipe down and clean) and boils water quickly, so you can have hot beverages in minutes.

Check Out Our Article For The Must-Have Appliances And Top Tips When Moving Out Of Home

Get Ready For The School Year At The Good Guys

Start ticking items off your list of university supplies with us – we’ve got an amazing range of tech, computer accessories and kitchen essentials for you to choose from. Shop online or at your local store for your uni essentials, and we offer contactless delivery or in-store pickup to help make your transition into studying that little bit easier and exciting!