When transitioning into university life, it is important to know what to keep and what to leave. Small decisions made while packing can affect how smoothly you can start your new life. Here is a detailed list of all the small and big things that come together to create an ideal student starter kit.
Documents
The main component that is part of all student packs is your documents. Special stress is put on these since these are not easily replaceable and if lost or left behind can cause a lot of hassle. An ideal starter pack should have the following documents:
- A valid passport with a valid visa in case you are travelling to a different country
- A valid ticket and travel insurance
- Student insurance documents
- Identity proof, driving license and spare passport size photographs
- Current bank documentation
- Student accommodation contract
- Admission documents and offer letter
- Vaccination history
- Scholarship or bursary documents if applicable
Medicines and Toiletries
Medical starter packs are an excellent idea and every student should have one. These student packs can save a lot of headaches, metaphorical and literal, especially when travelling or if you are new to a place and do not know much about making your way around. Some of the things that you should keep in your student starter kit when it comes to medicine and toiletries are:
- Allergy medicines
- Pain killers
- Medicines for infection
- A thermometer
- Band-aids
- Disinfectant
- Nail cutters
- Small pair of scissors
- Toothpaste and toothbrush
- Small mirror
- Soap and shampoo
- Hairbrush
- Pack of scrunchies
- Pack of safety pins
- Thread and needle
Kitchen Essentials
A fully prepared person always travels with the bare essentials and kitchen essentials are no exception. Therefore, even though your destination will have everything you need to cook, it is still advisable to create student packs that can be used if you cannot access the stores right away. When packing, keep free space in your starter pack for:
- Plates and bowls
- Spoons, knives and forks
- At least one pan in which you can prepare the basic food
- Spatula and ladle to help you cook and serve
- Small dishwashing liquid
- Scrubber
- Peelers and sharp knives
- Lidded containers to store leftovers
- Plastic wraps to preserve food for longer
- Strainers and sieves
- Can openers
Bedroom Essentials
When away from home, it becomes important that your living space, especially your bedroom, feels cosy and welcoming. Therefore, smart student packs include the basic bedroom essentials that you will need, especially on the first few days away from home. These include
- Clean sheets and pillow cover
- Quilts, blankets, duvets, etc.
- Your favourite scented candle or room spray
- Clocks and photos to add a homey feeling
- Earplugs and eye masks to help you sleep better
- Laundry basket to put your dirty clothes in
Apart from these, you must carry enough clothes to last you for a week or two if you cannot access the laundry. Other things can include the right shoes, caps, jackets, etc. Therefore, do your research before you start making a list of what to put in your student starter pack. The better you know the destination, the more effective the packing!
