As term starts up again, hoards of freshers have cleared out every section of every Ikea across the country – but are we really packing the right things? From air fryers to alcohol, what is the most important things to bring to uni?
So far, I have found a Dishmatic an absolute lifesaver: washing up isn’t pleasant at the best of times, let alone when my flatmates leave their dirty washing up in the sink for days. There’s other practical bits that have been invaluable: tupperware for storing leftovers, a thermos mug, a shoe rack that keeps my room tidy. Controversially, I’m not convinced I would use an air fryer enough, and with limited counter space in halls it would be a hassle, but in second year, when utilities are no longer included in the rent prices, it might be worth it. I’ll get back to you then.
So next, I did what any sensible writer does and asked my friends for advice: what’s been their uni essentials so far? Friends from home in the middle of freshers’ were quick to reply, with vodka at the top of their lists. I would add paracetamol, for when mid-week student discounts are too tempting the night before a 9am.
As a fresher, one of the things everyone tells you is that you will feel homesick at some point – so what should you do to help you feel better then? Several people told me that Jellycats were the thing they’re most glad they bought, which is so wholesome. It’s true that things like cuddly toys, pillows and fairy lights make a soulless room in uni halls feel like a home.
Then there’s the old debate: laptop or notebook? iPad or laptop? As everyone says, this definitely depends on your subject, because having a bigger screen to write my history essays on is invaluable, but if I had to annotate diagrams like many STEM students, I would rather use an iPad. Techradar.com uses the three categories of battery life, weight and price when balancing the best student device, with the Acer Aspire 5 (2022) as the best overall laptop. So, having the newest model probably isn’t imperative – but something that you can easily carry around campus will serve you best.
But whatever you do or don’t bring, remember that Edinburgh has a plethora of shops, and even if Ikea feels too far away (it’s only 25 minutes on the bus), they will always deliver to your accommodation.
Photo by Thought Catalog on Unsplash.
