The Ultimate Reading University Packing List

Discover our comprehensive university packing list, covering all the essentials you’ll need for a successful start at Reading University. Moving to university is such an exciting time, but it can also be an incredibly stressful time trying to figure out what to take to uni. 

Our ultimate university packing list will ensure you have everything you need for a fantastic start to Reading University. So, let’s dive in.

University packing list essentials: the must-haves

Before you start packing your clothes, let’s get the university packing list essentials sorted. These are the items you absolutely can’t leave home without.

University Documents

• Offer letter
• ID (passport or driving licence)
• Accommodation contract
• Insurance information (contents insurance for students)
• Vaccination history (contact your GP before you move)
• Student discount cards
• Prescription letters (for repeat prescriptions)

Health and Hygiene

• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste
• Shampoo
• Conditioner
• Soap
• Prescription medications 
• A basic first aid kit with plasters, antiseptics, and pain relief is also a good idea
• Hand soap
• Air fresheners
• Makeup
• Perfumes or aftershaves
• Nail cutters
• Tweezers
• Hair dryer
• Hair styling equipment
• Razors
• Sanitary equipment

Bedding and Linens: Getting Cosy

A comfortable bed is crucial for those long study sessions and late-night cramming. Here’s what you’ll need.

Bedding

Check with the university about the bed size in your accommodation. 

• Duvet
• Pillow
• Duvet cover (It’s handy to have at least two sets so you can easily switch them out)
• Pillowcases
• Fitted sheets 

Linens

• Bath towels
• Hand towels
• Bath mat
• Tea towels for the kitchen
• Rugs, cushions, or blankets for your bedroom

Kitchen Essentials: Cooking and Eating

Even if you’re not a master chef, you’ll need some basics to get started in the kitchen.

Cookware

• A small saucepan
• Frying pan
• Baking tray
• Pizza tray
• Colander
• Spatula
• Wooden spoon
• Can opener
• Peeler
• Oven gloves
• Chopping board
• Knives
• Scissors
• Measuring jug
• Cheese grater
• Whisk

Eating and Drinking

• Cutlery (knife, fork, spoon)
• Plates
• Bowls
• Cups
• A reusable water bottle
• Bottle opener

Food and Grocery Essentials

• Non-perishable snacks (cereal bars, crisps)
• Tea, coffee, and sugar
• Basic spices and condiments
• Tupperware for leftovers

Clothing: From Class to Social Events

Packing for uni means considering both everyday wear and those special occasions.

Casual Clothes

• Pack jeans
• T-shirts
• Jumpers
• Anything comfortable for lounging and attending class
• Gym wear

Formal Wear

You might need something a bit dressier for interviews, events, or presentations.

Evening Wear

• Dresses
• Suits
• Fancy dress
• High heels

Outdoor Gear

• Coat
• Rain jacket
• Trainers
• Boots 
• Umbrella (Reading can get chilly and wet, so be prepared!)

Accessories

• Bags for carrying course books
• Reusable bags for food shopping
• Bags for nights out
• Belts
• Jewellery
• Hats, scarves, and gloves

Electronics: Staying Connected and Studying

Modern life at uni requires a few tech essentials.

Study Gear

• Your laptop or tablet will be crucial for lectures and assignments 
• Don’t forget your phone and charge

Extras

• Headphones
• A portable charger
• A printer
• A USB

Study Supplies: Staying Organised

Make sure you have everything you need to keep up with your coursework.

Stationery

• Notebooks
• Binders
• Pens
• Pencils
• Highlighters (must-haves for note-taking and studying)
• Calculator
• A planner or calendar (perfect for tracking deadlines)

Personal Touches: Making Your Room Feel Like Home

Adding a bit of personality to your space can make a big difference.

Decorations

• Bring some photos
• Posters
• Decorations to personalise your room
• Fairy lights or LED strips can add a cosy touch

Comfort Items

• A favourite blanket or throw will make your bed extra cosy 
• Favourite books or games

Technology

• TV
• Remote (with spare batteries)
• A speaker 
• Extension lead
• Ethernet cable
• Fan
• Watch
• Clock or alarm clock

Cleaning Supplies: Keeping Things Tidy

A clean space is a happy space, so pack these basics:

Cleaning supplies

• Multi-surface cleaner
• Dish soap
• Sponge
• Clothes
• Laundry detergent
• Fabric conditioner
• Laundry basket
• Polish
• Bleach
• Bin bags
• Cling film or foil
• Hangers
• Clothes horse

Maximising space with self storage

University accommodation can often be quite cramped, so if you have belongings that you won’t need every day, consider using one of our student self storage. It’s also an ideal solution between academic years when you’re transitioning between accommodations. Instead of hauling everything back home, you can securely store your items with us until you’re ready to move in again.

Items to store in self storage

If you’re considering storing items in self storage, here are some of the most common items you might choose to store. 

• Seasonal clothing: Free up valuable space in your wardrobe by swapping out seasonal gear that you don’t need all year round.
• Sports and hobby equipment: Sports gear or musical instruments that you don’t use daily can declutter your bedroom.
• Books and stationary: Textbooks and materials from previous academic terms can be stored away safely to create room for your new work. 

Here at Magenta, we have a wide range of storage spaces to suit any student storage requirements. From lockers to large containers, you will be provided with a private, clean, and dry environment for your belongings until you need them again.  

Our Reading site is monitored by 24-hour CCTV surveillance and has PIN access control systems to make sure that only authorised customers can access the building.  

University packing list extra tips

Sometimes universities provide certain items or have restrictions on what you can bring. Make sure to review any guidelines provided by Reading University.

Avoid bringing duplicate items like kitchenware or appliances by coordinating with your future roommates.

Remember, you can always buy or order things you need once you’re settled in.

Packing for university might seem like a daunting task, but with our handy university packing list, you’ll know exactly what to take to uni. Enjoy the process, and get ready for an amazing adventure ahead! Happy packing and even happier studying! 

If you are looking for some additional space, get in touch with our friendly team for a quote or call us at 0118 3211566, and we can help you with all of your storage needs.