Starting university can be stressful enough; imagine having to move out of your home. Whether you’re moving from across the globe or the other side of Sydney, you need a plan. Wondering what to pack? Here’s a quick guide to help you get started.
The Essentials:
- Clothes and shoes – Crazy, right? Just don’t bring everything. Pack enough to cover you for at least 10 days, you might run out of time to do the washing. If you haven’t worn something in ages, leave it at home. Unless it’s a warm coat, Sydney can get cold in the winter if your more used to warmer climates. Make sure to pack at least one set of nice clothes, you never know when you might need them!
- Toiletries – Again, obvious. However, in addition to your usual toothbrush, toothpaste, make-up, shampoo, conditioner, personal hygiene supplies, etc., it’s always handy to have some Panadol and a mini first aid kit. But if there’s one thing from you can’t forget, its deodorant!
- Your laptop! – Your laptop is going to be your lifeline for everything from homework to exam prep. However, if you don’t own one yet or forget to bring it to campus, you can borrow one from our friendly iHelp Service Desk on campus. You can also buy an affordable one here in Sydney from many of our local stores, remember to check for special student discounts.
- Chargers and electronics – There’s nothing worse than getting to the end of the day with a flat phone and then realising you don’t have a way to charge it. The same applies for laptops, speakers, and anything else with a battery.
- Towels and a bathmat – Probably best, unless you fancy drying off in the sun. If it’s too much to pack, you can always pop into KMART or another affordable store to purchase a fluffy towel cheap.
- Decorations and mementos – You’re not in jail, so don’t let your room feel like one. Bringing along a few pieces of home, like posters, a fake plant, or especially a family photo, will liven up your space to help you relax. It will also help reduce homesickness, something especially important for our international friends.
- Important documents – These could include anything from your passport and health insurance to your Uni offer letter or accommodation contract. Make sure you have any important documents you think you might need access to and file them away to bring with you.
If you are flying to Sydney, remember to pack them in your carry-on luggage.
Situational items:
- Bedding – Many places offering student accommodation will just provide the bed and pillows, while others will also provide simple bedding. Depending on your situation, you might want to make sure you’ve got pillows and pillowcases, sheets, duvets and duvet covers. It might also be the perfect time for you to upgrade.
- Kitchenware – If you’re moving into an apartment with a shared kitchen, you will be provided with most utensils. However, it could be useful to pack an extra mug or two, just so everyone knows it’s your coffee and yours alone. Just make sure you’ve also got some dish soap to wash them up.
Other Useful Things…
- A good pair of headphones – Not everyone shares your taste in music, especially when they’re in the library.
- Lounge clothes – If you’re going to be studying at home for hours, you might as well be comfortable.
- Tape, paperclips, and a stapler – Useful for assignments and 5-second fixes.
Do NOT Bring:
- Your entire bedroom – Let’s be honest, half the stuff in there hasn’t been touched since you first brought it in. Only bring your favourite books, decorations, and clothes.
- Your pet – As much as we would all love to have them around, you’ll have to tell them “see you later!” just like any other family member.
Final Thoughts…
Hopefully this list helps keep your overpacking to a minimum. Remember, you don’t need to pack everything. As we’ve explored before, there’s loads to do in downtown Sydney, so between your time on campus, at work, and out enjoying the food, nightlife, and activities of the CBD, you really won’t have a chance to think about more than the essentials.
