How to pack for moving to University (and what to bring)

Moving to university is one of the most exciting and nerve-wracking parts of starting your student journey. Whether you’re travelling across the country or just down the road, packing efficiently can make the big day run much more smoothly.
Here’s your complete guide to what to bring, what to leave behind, and how to make the most of every inch of space in your car.

Packing your car efficiently

Packing up your life for university can be a challenge, especially if space is tight. Here are some top tips for getting it all in safely and sensibly:
• Start with the boxes and hard items first. These form a sturdy base and stop your softer items from getting squashed
• Squish soft things around them. Bedding, towels, and clothes are great for padding gaps and protecting breakables
• Use bags instead of boxes for clothes and bedding. Bin bags or laundry bags are flexible and easier to squeeze into awkward spaces
• Make use of every nook and cranny. Footwells and spare seats are perfect for smaller items
• Keep important things to hand. That includes your documents, key card collection pass, photo ID, accommodation details, phone charger, and some snacks and drinks for the journey
• Check your visibility! Safety first — make sure you can see clearly out of all mirrors before setting off

Remember: you don’t need to bring everything from home. Newcastle has plenty of shops nearby and a fantastic ReHome strategy to get pre-loved items. If you forget something, you can easily pick it up once you arrive. Sometimes it’s better to travel light and buy local than to squeeze everything in.

What to bring with you

Here’s a handy checklist of recommended items when moving into university accommodation.

Bedroom and bedding
• Duvet and pillows
• Bedsheets, duvet covers, and pillowcases
• Mattress protector
• Blanket or throw
• Clothes hangers
• Laundry basket or bag
• Clothes airer

Kitchen essentials
• Plates, bowls, and cutlery
• Saucepan and frying pan
• Chopping board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon and spatula
• Tupperware or food containers
• Tin opener
• Mugs and glasses
• Tea towels and dishcloths
• Washing-up liquid and sponge
• Reusable water bottle
• Carrier bags for your first food shop

Bathroom and cleaning
• Towels (bath and hand)
• Toiletries and toilet roll
• Cleaning spray and wipes
• Sponges or cloths
• Bin bags

Tech and study
• Laptop and charger
• Phone charger
• Stationery (notebooks, pens, highlighters)
• USB stick or external hard drive

Clothing
• Everyday clothes and shoes
• Sportswear
• Warm clothes — Newcastle can get cold
• Waterproof coat and sturdy shoes

Other handy bits
• ID and important documents (passport, key collection pass, accommodation offer, bank info)
• First-aid kit
• Small toolkit (screwdriver, scissors, etc.)
• Snacks and drinks for move-in day

What not to bring
Some items are not allowed in university accommodation for safety reasons. Check the confiscation policy before packing. Bringing prohibited items could result in removal or fines.

Prohibited items include:
• Dangerous electrical items or any that aren’t PAT tested
• Heaters, heated blankets, or clothes dryers
• Candles, incense sticks, or anything with an open flame
• LED strip lights or mains-powered fairy lights
• Deep fat fryers, fridge freezers, or lava lamps
• Fireworks or flammable materials
• DJ decks or large speakers if deemed a nuisance
• Fabrics hung on walls or draped from ceilings

Don’t panic if you forget something

There are plenty of shops within walking distance of campus. The city centre has supermarkets, homeware stores, and charity shops for any essentials you may have missed. You can also use ResLife ReHome, a student initiative for donated second-hand items, to save money and reduce waste.

A few final tips

• Pack a “first night” bag with pyjamas, toothbrush, and a change of clothes so you’re not digging through boxes at midnight
• Label boxes or bags by room (e.g., kitchen, bathroom, desk)
• Bring some snacks and drinks to share with new flatmates — a great icebreaker
• Take your time unpacking — settling in is part of the experience

Final thoughts

Moving to university is the start of something amazing. Smart packing and preparation will make the journey smoother and help you settle into your new home with ease.

Remember:
• Pack smart and safely
• Don’t bring prohibited items
• You can always buy what you forget once you’re here

Newcastle is waiting for you — load up the car, grab your snacks, and get ready to start your next adventure.