You’ve received your university acceptance letter, and a whole new chapter is about to begin. Between the excitement and the nerves, there’s one major task left: packing. Packing for university can feel overwhelming at first, but it doesn’t have to be. What’s essential, what’s optional, and what’s just going to take up space?

To make it easier, we’ve created the ultimate student packing list for 2026. Whether you’re moving into student accommodation for the first time or heading abroad for your studies, this checklist covers everything you need to make your new space comfortable, functional, and ready for university life. 

Crafting Your Comfort Zone: Student Bedroom Essentials

Your room will be the centre of your student life. It’s where you study, relax, and recharge. Making it comfortable from day one helps you settle in faster. Most university halls include basic furniture, but adding your own touches turns it into a space that feels like home.

• Bedding: Essential. University mattresses are basic, so invest in quality bedding for a good night’s sleep.

• Duvet and Pillows: Check your accommodation's bed size first! Most are a standard single, but some can vary.

• Duvet Covers and Pillowcases (x2): Having a spare set is a lifesaver on laundry day.

• Fitted Sheets (x2): Again, a spare is essential.

• Mattress Protector: Trust us on this one. It provides an extra layer of comfort and hygiene.

• Under-bed Storage Boxes: Perfect for stashing away extra clothes, shoes, or books.

• Slim Hangers: You’ll be surprised how many clothes you have. Having some thin hangers will save you a lot of space.

• Cosy Blankets: For chilly evenings or wrapping up while you study.

• Laundry Basket: A pop-up or foldable one is a great space-saver.

The Ultimate Study Desk and Tech Toolkit

Your desk is where the magic happens, or at least where the essays get written. Creating an organised and functional workspace will make those study sessions far more productive. 

Core Technology:

• Laptop and Charger: This is arguably the most important item you’ll bring. Make sure it's reliable and has all the software you need for your course.

• Extension Lead with Surge Protection: Student rooms can sometimes lack plug sockets. An extension lead is a must-have for charging your laptop, phone, and other gadgets simultaneously.

• USB Stick or External Hard Drive: For backing up your work. University computers can be unreliable, and losing an important assignment is a nightmare you don’t want to live.

• Headphones: Essential for listening to online lectures without disturbing your flatmates or for blocking out noise when you need to focus.

Stationery Supplies:

• Notebooks and Pens: Even in a digital age, you’ll always need to jot down quick notes.

• Planner or Wall Calendar: To keep track of deadlines, lectures, and your social life.

• A Stapler, Scissors, and Tape: You won't need them often, but when you do, they're invaluable.

• Highlighters and Sticky Notes: For annotating textbooks and organising your thoughts.

Don't go overboard on stationery before you start. You can always buy more specific items from the campus shop once you know what you truly need for your modules.

Important Essentials: Health, Documents, and Everyday Basics

This section isn't the most exciting, but forgetting any of these items can cause major headaches down the line.

Important Documents: Keep these in a secure folder. Make digital copies and have backups where possible.

• Personal ID: Passport, driving licence, or any other form of photo ID.

• University-related Documents: Acceptance letter, course information, and any correspondence from the university.

• Accommodation Contract: Your tenancy agreement for your 2026 student accommodation.

• Student Finance Documents: Proof of funding and any related letters.

• Bank Account Details: You’ll need these for setting up payments or getting a part-time job.

Personal Health Kit:

• A Basic First-Aid Kit: Plasters, antiseptic wipes, pain relief medicine, and any allergy medication.

• Prescription Medication: Bring enough to last you until you can register with a local GP. Include a copy of your prescription.

• Your Glasses/Contact Lenses and Solution: If you need them.

Bathroom Basics:

• Towels (x2-3): One for use, one for the wash, and maybe a hand towel.

• Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, deodorant.

• Shower Caddy: If you have a shared bathroom, a caddy to carry your things to and from the shower is a game-changer.

• Flip-flops or Shower Shoes: Another shared bathroom essential.

For International Students: What to Pack for Studying Abroad 

If you’ve been wondering what to pack for university in 2026, this ultimate checklist has you covered:

• Travel and Power Adapters: This is critical. Research the type of plug sockets used in your destination country and bring at least two universal travel adapters. Check if you also need a voltage converter for items like hair dryers, as plugging a high-power device into the wrong voltage can damage it.

• Home Comforts: Pack a few small, lightweight items that remind you of home. This could be your favourite tea, a small flag, or a few photos. They can make a huge difference in combating homesickness.

• Medication: Bring a sufficient supply of any necessary prescription medication, along with a letter from your doctor explaining what it is. Check the regulations of your destination country to ensure it's permitted.

What to Leave Behind: The "Buy It There" List

Just as important as knowing what to pack is knowing what not to pack. Your room will have limited space, and your car will have a limited capacity.

• Printers: Most universities have extensive printing services in their libraries, which are often cheaper and more convenient than maintaining your own printer.

• Bulky Kitchen Appliances: Items like toasters, kettles, and microwaves are often provided. If not, they are cheap to buy and can be split with flatmates.

• A Ton of Books: Your reading list might look long, but many of those books will be available in the university library or as e-books. Only bring absolute essentials.

• Your Clothes: Pack for the current season. You can swap clothes out when you visit home or buy season-specific items like a heavy winter coat once you're there. This ensures you get something appropriate for the local climate.

Packing for university is the final step before your new life begins. By focusing on what’s truly necessary, you can make your move smooth and efficient. 

Remember to personalise it to your own needs and course requirements. Your new room in your student accommodation is a blank canvas, but you can easily find the perfect student home with Casita. Pack smart, and you’ll have the perfect foundation to build an incredible university experience.

If you need further information or ideas on what to pack, check out our other relevant blogs: Casita’s Essentials Kit and Must-Have College Essentials for Move-In Day.