As September approaches, so does the packing - I know it all too well.
Back in 2022, I was getting ready to move into my new space in halls. I spent most of my summer searching Pinterest for room ideas and refreshing The Student Room for advice. I still use a lot of what I bought back then, but some of it ended up in boxes in the attic.
So I've put together a curated list of my top picks to help you make your space your own, with things that will last far beyond first year. Everything I have included is sustainable, recycled and ethically made, so you can kit out your space without it costing the earth.
Alice, LIGA
Notebooks, for studying and scrapbooking.
I got through more notebooks at university than I'd like to admit. This one, however, is cork-bound with recycled paper inside, and it's held up far better than the cheap ones I was replacing every term. Good for lecture notes, scrapbooking pictures of new friends, shopping lists and important reminders. Plus, it's made from actual sailcloth, which is a good icebreaker.
Pictured: LIGA Sailcloth Notebook in Red.
Cork Memo Boards, for family photos and favourite things.
This was the first thing I put up, and the first thing that made my room feel less empty. Great for photos of family, your timetable, and the takeaway menu you'll know all-to-well by November. Although I am no longer at university, my memo board is still with me, now in my new kitchen - a worthwhile investment, I'd say.
Pictured: Cork Notice Board | Large.
Mugs and Coasters, for pre-drinks and spillages.
Coasters sound like the least exciting thing on this list, and they probably are. But they're also the reason my desk survived first year, which is more than I can say for my kettle. Mine were cheap and cheerful and didn't survive long, but these are much nicer, with cork that handles heat without warping.
As for mugs, I acquired many during my three years, but none that I really loved. If I could go back, I'd get something sturdy, beautiful and unique enough that nobody steals it. Having it as a matching set with coasters would've been an added bonus.
Pictured: Flowers Mug & Coaster.
Trays, for holding trinkets and carrying breakfast.
This is the one I'd go back and add to my list. I spent first year balancing multiple plates on the way back from the kitchen, and it was always risky. A tray would've made it one easy trip - for the tray pictured, the cork handles the heat, so you can pick it up and carry it two floors with no issue.
Pictured: Eco Cork Tray | Flora.
Dishcloths and Tea Towels - bring your own, trust me.
Nobody packs these, and then seven of you are sharing one damp tea towel by week two. I would highly recommend buying your own and keeping them in a secret, safe place. I'd buy a set, so that when one is in the wash, you've got another on-hand.
A decent cloth makes the job quicker, and having your own means you're not reaching for whatever's been sitting in the sink since Tuesday. Ours are made to be washed and reused again and again, so one will see you through the year instead of a pack of disposable sponges.
Pictured: Eco Dishcloths | Fish & Wave.