Heading to university? Make sure your teen packs the right things!

Aug 1, 2025
2 min read

Updated: Jul 22

This is just a snippet from The Parents' Guide to University. If you’d like the full version, with clear, up-to-date advice, practical tips and actions you can take at home, click below.

Read the full guide: The Parents' Guide to University

If your teen’s leaving home in the autumn, you’ll want to make sure they have everything they need, from comfy bedding to pots and pans. That's why we've written this blog, so you can be sure your child has everything for a perfect start to university life.

Heading to university? Make sure your teen packs the right things!

What to pack for university life

Help your child organise what they’ll need to take: everything from course materials, laptops and phones to bedding, cooking equipment and clothes, plus all the appropriate paperwork such as bank accounts, TV licences, insurance, travel passes and parking permits. It makes their life easier if they know how to plan ahead, and it'll make you feel more comfortable knowing they're well prepared. Download our university checklist below to make sure you've got it covered.

Bedding

Knowing exactly what to pack will largely depend on the type of accommodation your child has applied for. Although most halls of residence provide single standard-size beds, some private accommodation may differ, so it's always worth checking before buying any bedding.

Toiletries

Have they always relied on you to replenish the shower gel, shampoo, moisturiser and shaving foam? It might take some time for them to get used to thinking for themselves, so make sure they have everything they'll need to get by for the first few weeks.

Bright colours

Keep to the basics when it comes to kitchen utensils, and try to buy items that are easily identifiable. Bright colours or patterns will help your child keep track of their things, especially if they're sharing with lots of other people.

Be selective

Your teen's university accommodation may be substantially smaller than their bedroom at home. Help them work out how much space they're likely to have and what's essential and non-essential when packing.

Last-minute arrangements

If you're helping your child move into their new accommodation, it may be a good idea to factor in some time for a trip to the local shopping centre for any last-minute purchases.