For many people, moving into student accommodation is the first experience of independent living, away from their parents. It’s common to feel excited about all the freedom, and it’s very common to feel apprehensive and a bit daunted at the thought of the responsibilities that come with such a move.
Learn more about your student accommodation before you move in
Before your move, take time to find out more about where you will be living. If you can, visit before moving, and attend any welcome events offered. This is a good opportunity to get to know your accommodation and might help you make new friends.
Check the provider’s website for a handbook, and keep an eye on your emails to make sure you don’t miss any communications.
Now is a good time to think about your termly budget, before you accidentally spend it all in the first week. Use Money Saving Expert’s Student budgeting planner to get started.
Find out what domestic supplies you need for college
Your accommodation handbook should give you an idea of what kitchen goods are supplied and what you will need to bring or buy. A basic list might include:
- cutlery, glasses, mugs, plates, bowls (two of each)
- saucepan set, knife, scissors, chopping board, mixing bowl, grater, food containers
You may find you need less than you think, particularly if your accommodation is catered. It’s easy to get household goods wherever you are in the country, so you could save money by putting off buying until you know what you need.
Make your college room your own
Bring a few comforts from home to personalise your space. For some people, college is a chance for reinvention, and their room is an opportunity to reflect their new personal branding. But you may also want to make your room into a comforting space with familiar posters and photos. A quilt or bedspread can help make a space feel homey, as can a few cushions. Fairy lights or a battery lamp will let you create a cosy mood. House plants can be fun – but do have a plan for them if you need to vacate your room at the end of term.
Why do students need storage?
It’s common for students to live in university accommodation during term time. But during vacations, they spend time either travelling, or staying elsewhere for work or more study, or living with their parents. In some cases, you’ll be allowed to leave your possessions in your university accommodation between terms, although it’s likely you’ll have to pay for this. But otherwise, you’ll need to take all your books and household goods home; or you’ll have to store them.
Another reason you might use self- storage is that student accommodation is often cramped and lacking storage. If you have a hobby with bulky equipment, such as a surfboard, then self-storage can take the pressure off your living space.
You may also find that your accommodation is not secure enough for high-value equipment that is vulnerable to theft, like golf clubs. Kit kept in self-storage is also safe from inconsiderate or careless housemates.
Self-storage is there when you need it
Self-storage is a flexible solution for students as you don’t have to pay for it when you’re not using it. You can rent a storage unit for a few days – ideal if you’re having a party and want to free up space – or for a couple of months over the summer.
We have a blogpost with ideas about how students can benefit from self-storage.
Many self-storage companies will offer special deals for students; and you can also save money on your self-storage bill each month by shopping around for your self-storage insurance. Get a quick quote from Store and Insure to check you’re not overpaying for self-storage insurance.
