If you are looking for some more obscure, but nonetheless handy, items to add to your last-minute pack list for university this year, then you are in just the right place! In this blog, I share some of my holy grail additions that have served me well throughout my time at Durham.
Here is my list of random items (in no particular order!)
Extension lead – This can be useful if you have plug sockets that are in hard-to-reach places, or if you do not have many at all.
Mattress topper – This is a nice investment that can make the beds much more more comfortable.
Coat hangers – You can never have too many of these in the wardrobe.
Laundry basket – Circuit laundry will be made difficult without something to transport your clothes in, especially if you are required to go to a different building to do it. You could also bring a drying rack if you prefer to air dry your clothes.
Shower caddy (particularly for shared bathrooms) – You will likely share a bathroom at some point during your time at university and having a small, transportable bag of essentials can save you a lot of time and effort when heading to the bathroom.
Important Documents – Do not forget to bring things like your ID, passport, and any other crucial documents that you might need during your time away from home. They are super important but can be also, just as easily forgotton about.
A long key chain – This is a random, but I believe useful, suggestion. I liked to have a long, lanyard-style key ring on my university keys to help make them more obvious in my bag or room. You absolutely do not want to be that person losing your keys and having to go to the porter at 3am!
Speaker – If you like listening to music when in the shower, studying or just wish to make yourself popular in the flat, bring a small, portable speaker.
Doorstop – A frehser’s must-have! Using one of these to keep your door propped open from time-to-time will help to get you better acquainted with your housemates.
Tupperware – Batch cooking as a university student is super helpful and rewarding. Coming prepared with a lot of tupperware makes this an easy habit to get into straight away.
Dressing gown/blanket – Do not forget that Durham is in the north-east of England and so, a fluffy dressing gown and a cosy blanket are simply must-haves!
Small mirror – Your room may have a mirror, however, in the case that your mirror is not in the most convenient place, bringing your own small one can save you a lot of hassle.
Ear plugs – University can get loud and sometimes rooms can be near college social areas, so bringing these small sleep-savers could do your future self a massive favour.
Small first aid kit – Having your own first aid kit is a top tip to make sure that you are prepared for any flu or illness that might catch up with you at university.
Fancy dress – Durham loves its fancy dress! Whether it is for a formal, social or a friend’s party, you will encounter a themed event during your time at university. If you have any bits already at home, then it is worth adding them to the suitcase, they will serve you well at Durham.
Cards or games – Another fun item that will make you a flat-favourite.
Hot water bottle – Did I mention that Durham can get cold in the winter?
Reed diffusers – usually college accommodations do not allow lighting candles but, using a reed diffuser is a great alternative which still leaves your room smelling sweet and feeling homely. I always got compliments about how nice my room smelt in first year and it was all thanks to a cheap reed diffuser form Tesco!
There are a lot more items that you could bring to make your accommodation feel more homely, but those are some of my favourites. Make sure you do not forget about the essentials though, you will still need bedding, toiletries, and clothes a little more than a doorstop, even if they are both useful to have!
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