Moving to Oxford for university usually involves one very overstuffed car, a stack of cardboard boxes that contain your entire life, and the nagging suspicion that you’ve left something important at home. But you don’t pack everything you own. Oxford has plenty of shops, so focus on what you'll need right away and what would be annoying or expensive to replace. Here’s a quick guide to the easily forgotten essentials that can make those exciting first days at uni much smoother.
Remember everyday bedroom essentials
University accommodation usually comes furnished, but you want it to feel like a home rather than a hotel room. Pack a duvet that can take you from autumn to spring, pillows, sheets, duvet covers and towels, plus hangers and a laundry bag. Before ordering anything, check what your accommodation provides - especially the mattress size since you don’t want to buy a single-sized bedding set and find out that you’ll actually be sleeping on a small double. Add in a few familiar touches, such as family photos or your favourite blanket, to make your new room feel more yours.
Bring the kitchen kit you'll really use
You’re probably used to your parents’ kitchen which is full of gadgets and small appliances. But for uni, just start with the everyday basics - a plate, bowl, mug, glass, cutlery, saucepan, frying pan and a few useful utensils. Check what's provided or permitted before buying electric items such as kettles or toasters. If you'll be sharing a kitchen, wait before buying less essential items - you don’t want five flatmates arriving with five colanders. It’s also a good idea to keep a handy list of Oxford’s many food markets for future reference and in case you need to go food shopping during your first week.
Don't forget to pack the little things that save the day
It’s easy to forget small items but rest assured that forgetting them will cause the biggest irritation. So, remember to pack phone and laptop chargers for all your devices, toiletries, medication, eyeglasses or contact lenses, first-aid supplies, batteries and an umbrella for the Oxford rain (which has a habit of arriving when you're halfway across town). Think about what you’ll need to study effectively and don’t forget headphones, pens, notebooks and an extension lead for your laptop.
Of course, you will leave something behind. If you do leave a coat, laptop charger, or other essential item at your parents' house, a next day delivery service is a quick way to send them to you safe and sound - without having to drive all the way back to Oxford.
Keep essential documents, ID and paperwork out of moving boxes
As you pack, be sure to keep photo ID, university letters and any other important documents somewhere accessible rather than at the bottom of moving a box full of books. If you’re an international student, keep passports, immigration documents and medical records on hand rather than packing them. And keep essential documentation in your hand luggage when travelling rather than putting it in checked baggage. It’s a good idea to create digital copies for backup, but make sure you know which originals you'll need.
Pack smart and focus on the start of your Oxford life
You don't need to transport your entire childhood bedroom when you move to Oxford. Just keep it simple and pack the things you'll need straight away, keep important documents safe, and check what will already be supplied. Anything non-essential can wait as you discover Oxford's many markets, shops and charity outlets.
