Moving into student accommodation is one of the most exciting steps on your university journey. For students heading to Loughborough, known for its vibrant campus life and excellent facilities, preparing for this transition can feel equal parts thrilling and daunting. Whether you’re moving into a university hall, private student accommodation, or a shared house, being prepared with the right essentials will help you settle in smoothly.
To make your packing process easier, we’ve put together this ultimate checklist tailored for Loughborough student accommodation. Let’s dive in!
1. Bedroom Essentials
Your bedroom is your personal retreat, so it’s essential to make it comfortable and practical. Here’s what to pack:
- Bedding: Most student rooms come with a single bed (or three-quarter in some accommodations), so pack single-size duvet covers, fitted sheets, and pillowcases. Don’t forget a mattress protector to keep things hygienic.
- Duvet and Pillows: Opt for lightweight, washable options that suit all seasons.
- Storage Boxes: Under-bed storage or stackable boxes are lifesavers in maximising small spaces.
- Decorations: Photos, fairy lights, posters, and a cosy throw will help make your room feel like home.
- Laundry Basket: Choose a collapsible or lightweight one for convenience.
- Hangers: Many accommodations provide wardrobes but often lack sufficient hangers.
2. Kitchen Supplies
In most Loughborough student accommodation, you’ll share a kitchen with others. Having your own basics will make cooking stress-free:
- Cookware: One medium saucepan, a frying pan, and a baking tray should cover most of your cooking needs.
- Utensils: Spatula, wooden spoon, tongs, and a can opener are essential.
- Dinnerware: Two plates, bowls, and a set of cutlery.
- Glasses and Mugs: A couple of each is enough to start.
- Tupperware: Handy for storing leftovers or packed lunches.
- Dishcloths and Tea Towels: Bring a few extras—you’ll thank yourself later!
- Basic Cleaning Supplies: Washing-up liquid, sponges, and bin bags.
Pro tip: Label your items discreetly. With shared kitchens, it’s easy for things to go walkabout!
3. Bathroom Necessities
Even if your accommodation includes en-suite facilities, you’ll need to bring these essentials:
- Towels: Two bath towels and a couple of hand towels.
- Shower Caddy: Perfect for transporting toiletries if you’re in a shared bathroom.
- Toiletries: Shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, toothbrush, toothpaste, and razors.
- Flip-flops: Essential if using shared showers.
- Cleaning Supplies: A toilet brush, bathroom cleaner, and air freshener for maintaining your en-suite.
4. Study Supplies
Loughborough is a university that takes academics seriously, so make sure your desk setup is ready for success:
- Laptop or Computer: Essential for essays, research, and staying connected.
- Stationery: Notebooks, pens, highlighters, sticky notes, and a hole puncher.
- Desk Lamp: Some rooms have limited lighting, so a small lamp can be a game-changer.
- Extension Cables: With all your tech, extra sockets will come in handy.
- Whiteboard or Corkboard: Great for pinning up timetables, reminders, or motivational quotes.
5. Clothing Must-Haves
Packing your wardrobe for university is about balancing practicality with personal style:
- Everyday Wear: Pack comfortable outfits for lectures and social events.
- Sportswear: Loughborough is famous for its sporting culture, so even if you’re not an athlete, gym kits or casual activewear might come in handy.
- Formal Wear: Bring one smart outfit for interviews or formal dinners.
- Seasonal Essentials: A good winter coat, waterproof jacket, and sturdy shoes for Loughborough’s chilly, often wet winters.
- Laundry Essentials: A laundry bag, detergent, and a drying rack if your room has space.
6. Kitchen Staples for Moving Week
When you first arrive, you probably won’t feel like heading straight to the shops. Pack these basic food items to get you through your first few days:
- Pasta, rice, or noodles.
- Tinned soup or baked beans.
- Cereal or porridge.
- Tea, coffee, or hot chocolate.
- Snacks like biscuits or crisps.
- Salt, pepper, and basic spices (paprika and mixed herbs are versatile favourites).
7. Entertainment and Socialising
Loughborough has a buzzing student community, but it’s always good to have options for downtime in your room or common areas:
- Games: A deck of cards or a board game can break the ice with new flatmates.
- Books: For downtime or coursework.
- Streaming Device: A Fire Stick or Chromecast for movie nights.
- Headphones: Essential for private study or chilling out without disturbing others.
8. Personal Items
Make sure to bring along items that make you feel at home:
- Medications: Pack enough of any prescription medications and a small first aid kit.
- Important Documents: Passport, driver’s licence, student ID, accommodation contract, and any bank details.
- Photos: Friends, family, and pets to remind you of home.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Loughborough is an environmentally conscious campus, and staying hydrated is key.
9. Cleaning and Maintenance Supplies
Keeping your space clean will make student life far more enjoyable:
- Cleaning Cloths: Microfibre ones work well for dusting and wiping surfaces.
- Multi-Surface Cleaner: One bottle should cover most of your cleaning needs.
- Vacuum or Broom: Most shared accommodations have these, but check beforehand.
10. A Few Extra Tips for Packing Smart
- Check What’s Included: Before packing, double-check your accommodation’s website or inventory list. Some halls include kettles, toasters, and other appliances.
- Don’t Overpack: Remember, you can always bring more stuff later or buy locally.
- Leave Space for Essentials: Loughborough’s town centre has plenty of shops like Wilko, Tesco, and Sainsbury’s for last-minute needs.
FAQs about Packing for Loughborough Student Accommodation
Q: How much should I pack for my room at Loughborough?
A: Pack only what you’ll need for day-to-day living. Prioritise essentials and items that will make your room feel like home. Remember, storage can be limited!
Q: Are electrical items allowed in student accommodation?
A: Most student accommodation in Loughborough allows items like kettles or small fridges, but check the rules for prohibited items such as heaters or high-wattage appliances.
Q: Will I need a TV licence?
A: If you plan to watch live TV or use BBC iPlayer, you’ll need a TV licence, even if you’re using a laptop. To learn more about whether students in Loughborough need a TV license, check out this complete article: Do Students Need a TV License?
Q: Should I bring a bike?
A: Loughborough’s campus is bike-friendly, and having a bike can save you time travelling between halls, lectures, and town. Don’t forget a good lock and helmet.
Q: Are there laundry facilities in the halls?
A: Yes, most student halls in Loughborough offer laundry rooms with washing machines and dryers. However, they’re not free, so budget for laundry costs.
Q: Can I bring candles or fairy lights?
A: Most accommodations ban candles due to fire safety, but battery-powered fairy lights are a great alternative.
Final Thoughts
Moving into student accommodation in Loughborough marks the start of an incredible chapter in your life. Packing thoughtfully can make all the difference in creating a comfortable and productive living space. With the essentials on this list, you’ll be ready to tackle student life with confidence.
Good luck with your move, and don’t forget to enjoy every moment of your university experience—it’s a time you’ll treasure forever.
