Essential objects for a student residence

December 10, 2025

Moving into a student residence is usually exciting and overwhelming at the same time.

Especially when it comes to packing. By now, you’ve probably accumulated so many belongings that you don’t know what to take and what to leave behind.

To make sure you don’t forget anything and don’t have to run out for last-minute purchases when you arrive at the student residence, here are some useful tips. We’ll also tell you which essential items you should bring.

Avoid bringing too many things

Remember that you’ll most likely be sharing the residence with other students and therefore sharing space. You don’t want to inconvenience anyone by having your belongings scattered everywhere, so it’s best to bring only what’s essential.

Also, keep in mind that some items—like cleaning supplies—can be shared with your roommates. A good option is to buy them once you arrive so you can split the cost.

Know what the Residence provides

Before you start packing, make sure you know everything that the student residence includes. Contact the accommodation team to confirm what you will actually need to bring.

Essential items for your room

Most dorm rooms come with basic furniture, such as:

Bed
Bedside tables
Desk
Desk lamp
Chair
Wardrobe
Mirror
Curtains
Waste bin

However, you’ll need to bring a few essential items, including:

Bed linen
Blankets and duvet
Pillows
Clothes hangers
Laundry basket

It’s important to know the size of the bed, as your sheets, blankets, and pillows will depend on this.

What you shouldn’t forget for the bathroom

Start by packing all your hygiene and personal care products: soap, deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, body lotion, toothpaste, and toothbrush.

Also include hair products, as well as a hairdryer or straightener if you use them regularly.

Other bathroom items you should bring:

First-aid kit and basic medications
Bath mat
Body and hand towels

Essential kitchen items

If you’re moving into a student residence with an electric stove, you should bring:

Pots and pans
Sets of plates, bowls, mugs, and glasses
Cutlery (a set of four knives, forks and spoons is enough)
Cooking utensils such as wooden spoons, ladle, spatula, strainer, and scissors
Knives and cutting board
Plastic or glass containers for leftovers
Kitchen towels

Important documents

Since you’re moving out of home, it’s essential to have all your important documents on hand. You may need them for university paperwork or everyday situations.

ID card
Passport
Health insurance
Vaccination record
Debit and credit cards
Bank documents
University acceptance letter
Driver’s licence

Basic cleaning supplies

To clean your room and do your laundry, you’ll need:

Laundry detergent
Dish soap
Toilet brush
Sponges
Cleaning cloths
Disinfectants
Bin bags

However, as mentioned earlier, a good alternative is to buy these items once you arrive. It will save space in your luggage and, since these products are often shared, you can split the cost with your flatmates.

Other items you’ll need

These items are just as essential, so make sure you pack them:

Notebooks, books, folders, pens, and everything you need for classes
Planner to organise your schedule and routine
Electronic devices such as laptop, Kindle, or anything you use regularly — plus their chargers
Drying rack for clothes
Umbrella for rainy days
Formal outfit, as university presentations and events often require it