Things I Love
University Essentials
If you’re like me and you’re also off to uni soon, you’re probably feeling excited, terrified, and probably a bit overwhelmed all at once. Welcome to the rollercoaster!
Between trying to figure out how student loans actually work, realising how much there is to sort out from module selections to daily routes, it honestly feels like there’s so much to think about. But don’t worry, I’m going through the exact same things, and I’ve put this together to make it all feel a little less chaotic.
This guide is full of the actual essentials that I’ve found really matter when it comes to starting uni life. From the boring-but-really-important stuff (like planners and kitchen basics) to the fun extras, I think i’ve got it all covered!
Whether you’re moving into halls, commuting from home, or jumping into a totally new city, I’ve got your back. These tips and reminders are here to help you settle in, find your feet, and, most importantly, actually enjoy your first year.
Embroidered Cherry Gingham Duvet Cover & Pillowcase Set £24
This adorable cherry-embroidered duvet cover is the perfect way to add some personality to your dorm room (or your bed at home!). It’s super cute, comfy, and gives off major cozy vibes, basically, an instant room glow-up. 🍒🛏️
SHOPPER BAG WITH DOUBLE HANDLE £29.99
This bag is a uni winner 💼, affordable, stylish, and just so practical. With its big size, double handles + long strap, and zip closure, it’s perfect for lugging lectures notes, snacks, and whatever else you need. Cute enough to dress up your outfit, comfy enough to wear every day.
Chilly's Series 2 Blush Pink Bottle 500ml £25.50
Staying hydrated at uni is non-negotiable, and this bottle makes it so much easier (and cuter!). The blush-pink shade brings the aesthetic, while its 500ml size holds enough water or tea to keep you going through lectures and library sessions. It keeps drinks cold for up to 24 hours, hot for 12, never leaks, has a comfy anti-microbial collar, and a sturdy base so it won’t slip around in your bag. Basically, it’s a stylish lifesaver for uni life. 💧✨
Wonder Softback Spiral Academic Year Diary £20
This diary is an essential if you’re trying to stay sane during your first year. It’s got all the bits you actually need: timetables, assignment & deadline trackers, weekly overviews… the works. Plus the spiral binding means you can flop it open flat on your desk (no fighting with it during lecture!) and the softback cover makes it light enough to throw in your bag. Cute and practical — a little lifesaver for keeping up with classes, society meet‑ups, and all those last‑minute “Oh shoot, I forgot that event” moments.
Mattress Topper Extra Deep £20
If you want your bed to feel like a cloud (especially when you’re crashing after a loooong day of lectures), this mattress topper is basically essential. The extra‑deep fit hugs your mattress and adds that plush layer that makes hopping into bed feel like a mini‑luxury. Plus it’s hypoallergenic, so even if your nose tends to freak out, you’re covered. Seriously, a small upgrade with huge comfort payoff , perfect for making halls or flatshare beds feel a lot more like your own cozy retreat.
Paper Plant Houseplant £30
This paper houseplant from Urban Outfitters is such a perfect decor piece — zero watering needed, zero stress. 🌿 It gives your room that fresh, green vibe without you having to remember caring for a real plant. Great for a desktop, bookshelf, or turning an empty corner into something cute. Ideal for making your uni room feel more like your space.
Felix Fold Out Pencil Case £5
This pencil case is a total game-changer for uni life. It’s not just cute, it’s actually practical. With a zip closure and a fold-out design, it keeps your pens, highlighters, and other essentials neatly organised and easy to access. Plus, it fits a 15cm ruler, so you’re always prepared. Whether you’re in lectures or studying at home, this pencil case adds a touch of fun and keeps you sorted. 🖊️✨
John Lewis Aluminium Non-Stick Pan Set, 3 Piece, Black £28
If you’re moving into halls or a flatshare and want to cook more than just pasta, this pan set is a total lifesaver. For just £28, you get a 16cm saucepan with lid, a 14cm milk pan, and an 18cm frying pan, all lightweight, non-stick, and induction-compatible. The soft-grip handles make flipping pancakes or stir-fries feel a bit more pro, and they’re dishwasher-safe for when you just can’t face washing up. A stylish, budget-friendly upgrade to your uni kitchen. 🍳✨
John Lewis Nylon Kitchen Utensils, Set of 4, Black £15
These utensils are a total game-changer for uni kitchens. The set includes a slotted turner, solid spoon, slotted spoon, and spaghetti server — all made from heat-resistant nylon, so they’re safe for non-stick pans. They’re also dishwasher-safe, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, with an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars, you know they’re a student favourite. Whether you’re cooking in halls or your first flat, this set has you covered. 🍝✨
Teddy Bear Peekaboo Mug £15
This mug is everything you didn’t know you needed for those early mornings or late-night study sessions. Cute, quirky, and totally unique, the little teddy bear peeking out is sure to brighten up your desk (and your mood!). It’s the perfect little pick-me-up for cozy uni vibes, plus, it’s great for tea, coffee, or even hot chocolate when you need that extra comfort boost. ☕🐻✨
Monsters, Inc. X Feed Me Bowl £20
Add some fun to mealtime with this adorable Pingu Feed Me Bowl! Whether it’s cereal, snacks, or midnight noodles, this bowl brings a smile to your face and a bit of personality to your kitchen. It’s the perfect little pick-me-up when uni life gets hectic, and hey, who wouldn’t want a penguin cheering them on while they eat? 🐧🍜✨
Manual 4 Litre Air Fryer £24
If you’re looking to level up your uni kitchen without breaking the bank, this air fryer is a total game-changer. It’s compact, stylish, and perfect for cooking up quick meals with little to no oil. Whether you’re craving crispy fries, roasted veggies, or even a cheeky batch of chicken wings, this air fryer has you covered. Plus, it’s super easy to clean, just pop out the non-stick drawer and you’re good to go. At £24, it’s a steal for anyone wanting to eat well without the hassle. 🍟✨
Russell Hobbs Steam Genie Handheld Clothes Steamer £22
If wrinkles freak you out (and let’s be real, they totally do), this steamer is about to become your dorm’s best friend. No ironing board required, just a few minutes, some steam, and your outfit’s looking fresh. It heats up in ~45 seconds, kills 99.9% of bacteria, and comes with attachments for delicates, upholstery, and lint. Compact enough to travel with, powerful enough for everything from your fave sweater to duvet cover. Definitely one of those little upgrades that makes uni life just feel more polished (and way less stressful). 🧺✨
100 LED Battery Operated Cluster String Lights £10
Want your room to glow without tripping over cords? These string lights are just the kind of magic you need. With 100 warm white LEDs on a delicate cluster wire, they add instant cosy vibes, wrap them round your bed frame, windows, mirror, or bookshelf. The battery setup means you can place them anywhere, and the timer (6 hours on / 18 hours off) means you don’t even have to remember to turn them off. The kind of decor that makes your space feel like “you.” ✨
Mini First Aid Kit 74 Pieces £13.99
Be ready for anything with this compact first aid kit, perfect for keeping in your uni room, backpack, or even your sports bag. It includes 74 essential pieces, from plasters and bandages to antiseptic wipes and scissors, so you’re covered for everyday cuts, scrapes, and little emergencies. Lightweight and portable, it’s a must-have for students living away from home for the first time.
Pyrex Zero Cook & Freeze Food Storage Canisters, Set of 3 £25
Meal prep just got easier! This set of 3 Pyrex canisters is perfect for cooking, freezing, storing, and reheating your food, all in one container. Made from durable glass, they can handle both high oven heat and freezing cold, so you can go straight from freezer to microwave or oven without worrying about cracks. Each canister comes with an airtight lid to keep your meals fresher for longer (and your fridge more organised).
Plastic Waste Paper Bin, White £8
Simple, sleek, and super practical, this white plastic waste paper bin from John Lewis is perfect for keeping your uni room tidy. Its minimalist design fits easily into any student bedroom, study space, or bathroom, and it’s lightweight enough to move around when you’re rearranging your room. Easy to wipe clean and big enough for everyday rubbish like paper, snack wrappers, or tissues, it’s a must-have for keeping on top of the mess.
Hawaiian Set, Deluxe £4.50
Bring the tropical vibes to any party with this colourful Hawaiian deluxe set from Smiffys. Complete with a flower lei, headband, and matching accessories, it’s the perfect go-to for fancy dress nights, themed parties, or freshers’ week events. Bright, fun, and easy to throw on over any outfit, it instantly gets you in the summer spirit, even if it’s raining outside (which, let’s be honest, it probably will be in the UK).
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