Making the move to Uni? We’ve got you covered (Copy)
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Heading to Uni is an exciting time: you’re starting your studies, you’re meeting all kinds of new people, and you’re moving into a brand-new room. This is going to be your home for the next few years, so of course you’ll want to make your space there your own. Not sure what to take with you? Let our blog help you decide between the must-haves and probably-don't-needs. Plus, we’ve also got some tips on keeping your belongings safe when you’re not around.
What do I need to take?
Rooms at Uni aren’t quite like what you see in the movies – they usually don’t have much space. You’ll want to pack light to make the most of what you’ve got, but you’ll still want to bring along the things that’ll make it feel like home. Check with your Uni or landlord to see what’s included with your accommodation, and then bring along any extra essentials.
Our Uni essentials are:
- Laptop/tablet
- Speakers
- Bedding
- Towels
- Favourite mug
- Pots, Pans and utensils for cooking (if they’re not provided)
- Clothes (check the weather for your Uni - you might need warmer clothes than you’re used to)
- Pictures or favourite things from home
- Shampoo, conditioner, shower gel
Making a room your own
Uni rooms can seem pretty uninviting at first, but once you add a few personal touches, it’ll feel just like home. Here are some of our favourite ways to add personality to a space:
- Lighting can really change the feel of a room. You can pick up statement mood lighting, hang strings of fairy lights or arrange (LED) candles around your room
- New bedding is an easy way to add some personality. Swap your old set for something that makes more of a statement- new room, new you
- Throws and rugs can add a bit of colour to your space and, as a bonus, hide mucky carpets or a sofa that’s seen better days
- Cushions are a great way to get colour, comfort and even extra seating options when friends come over
- Diffusers or air fresheners will give your room a familiar scent. Remember to check with your Uni or landlord before using any kinds of candles
- Unpacking quickly will make your room feel like your new home right away, rather than a holiday. Plus, you can send your parents back with any things you didn’t really need. Try to keep your room clutter free and maintain a clean-living space
Keeping your stuff safe
Living in shared accommodation is great. You get to meet tons of new people, and even have an instant set of ‘friends’ to hang out with in the first few weeks. Of course, there’s also a chance that some new friends may ‘borrow’ things from you and forget to return them, or a party guest may want to take something of yours home as a party favour. On that note, we’ve got some advice on keeping your things safe:
- Keep expensive items with you or locked in your room
- Shut your window when you’re not in your room, if you’re on the ground floor – even when you’re going to make a cuppa
- Mark your things with your name or home postcode
- Keep your bike indoors or securely locked up outside
- Have backups of your laptop and phone
- Make a note of serial numbers and your phone’s IMEI
Contents Insurance
If getting insurance sounds a bit of a faff, don’t be put off – it will protect your things were they to get stolen or damaged. Considering how much you paid for your laptop or mobile phone, it’s worth making sure you’re covered for them.
Your contents insurance may be covered if your family have home insurance with us – contact us to check.
And remember, whatever insurance you get, please make sure you understand what you are and aren’t covered for. Then you can get back to having the time of your life at Uni!