Student Guide To Living Alone For The First Time

I’ve work with lots of students who struggle with organising their flats in the first few years of university or college life. So, Here are 5 simple, low-stress organising tips for students moving out for the first time and living in student accommodation 

 Simple living, Simple organising.

1. Start with One of Each

• You don’t need 6 mugs or 12 plates — start with one or two of each essential item.

• Fewer things = less clutter, less washing up, and easier to keep tidy.

• You can always add more later if you really need it.

2. Use “Zones” for Your Space

• Even in a small room, divide it into study zone, sleep zone, chill zone.

• Keep related items only in their zone (e.g., books and laptop in study zone, snacks and kettle in kitchen area).

• This stops mess from spreading everywhere.

3. Go Vertical, Not Horizontal

• In tight spaces, use stackable boxes, shelves, and over-door hooks to store upwards instead of across the floor.

• A few small stackable crates can hide laundry, toiletries, or snacks without taking up floor space.

4. “One In, One Out” Rule

• If you buy a new hoodie, choose an old one to donate or take home.

• This keeps things from multiplying without you noticing.

• Works for clothes, stationery, and kitchen bits.

5. Sunday Reset

• Pick one day a week (Sunday’s great) to:
  

• Do laundry

• Wipe surfaces

• Restock snacks and essentials

• Empty bins

• Takes less than an hour if done weekly, and stops your room turning into “assignment week chaos.”

Minimalist Student Packing Checklist

(Simple living, simple organising)

Clothing

• 5–7 everyday tops

• 2–3 bottoms (jeans, trousers, leggings)

• 1–2 comfy lounge outfits

• 1–2 “smart casual” outfits for events/interviews

• 1 warm jumper/hoodie

• 1 lightweight jacket + 1 warm coat

• 7–10 sets of underwear + socks

• Pyjamas

• 1 pair comfy shoes/trainers

• 1 pair weather-appropriate shoes (boots or sandals)

Toiletries

• Toothbrush + toothpaste

• Hairbrush/comb

• Shampoo + conditioner

• Body wash/soap

• Deodorant

• Skincare basics (moisturiser, sunscreen)

• Razor (if used)

• Nail clippers

• Any essential medication

Kitchen Basics

 (only what you’ll actually use daily)

• 1 plate, 1 bowl, 1 mug, 1 glass

• 1 knife, fork, spoon, teaspoon

• 1 sharp cooking knife

• 1 small saucepan, 1 frying pan

• 1 spatula or wooden spoon

• 1 chopping board

• Food storage container(s)

• Tea towel

Bedding & Laundry

• 2 sets of bed sheets + pillowcases

• 1 duvet + cover

• 1 pillow (or 2 if preferred)

• Laundry bag or basket

Study Supplies

• Laptop + charger

• Notebook & a few pens

• Headphones

• Small desk lamp (if not provided)

• USB stick or external drive for backups

Other Essentials

• Phone + charger

• Reusable water bottle

• Small first aid kit (plasters, pain relief)

• Extension lead / power strip

• Reusable shopping bag

First Week Student Survival Kit

Comfort & Homey Touches

• Small blanket or throw – makes your room instantly cosier.

• A few favourite snacks – for those “don’t feel like cooking yet” moments.

• Photos or postcards – easy decoration to make your room feel like yours.

• Reusable hot water bottle – great for warmth and comfort 

Cleaning & Quick Fix

• Anti-bac wipes – for your desk, shelves, and shared kitchen surfaces.

• Small washing-up liquid + sponge – day one in the kitchen.

• Mini sewing kit – for loose buttons or small tears.

• Roll of bin bags – trust me, you’ll need them sooner than you think.

Health & Wellbeing

• Plasters etc  – for little kitchen or moving-day accidents.

• Pain relief tablets – headaches happen.

• Pocket-size hand sanitiser – especially for shared spaces.

• Tissues – for colds, spills, or unexpected emotional moments.

Practical Essentials

• Extension lead / multi-plug adapter – student rooms rarely have enough sockets.

• Small torch – useful for power cuts or finding dropped items under the bed.

• Notebook & pen – for quick lists, door notes, or jotting down names.

• Portable phone charger – lifesaver on long days out.

First-Night Food & Drink

(so you don’t have to grocery shop immediately)

• Small carton of milk etc 

• Cereal or instant oats

• Instant noodles / pasta packets

• A few tea bags or coffee sachets

• Bottle of water or juice

💡 Tip: Buy things like cleaning supplies, extra kitchenware, and bulk food after you move in. That way, you can share costs with flatmates and avoid duplicates.