The end of an era and the beginning of a new one has arrived for your child. As your child starts to get their head around what uni life might be like, it’s a great idea to get planning for their new life on campus. And by that we mean it’s time to start thinking about what to pack – because there is no time like the present.
Are you and your child wondering what to take to uni in Australia? Where do you even start? Well, let’s break it down.
We’ve put together a helpful list of recommended uni essentials so you can help support your child’s transition to life on campus. And we’ve even thrown in a downloadable uni packing checklist at the end. But first, let’s dive into a few of those all-important non-negotiables.
What to take to uni #1: Documents
Since this could very well be the first time your child has lived out of home, it’s important that they have copies of some important documents. It may seem obvious but they’ll need identification documents such as their driver’s licence, passport, credit/debit card, and Medicare card. If your child still appears on the family Medicare card, they may wish to organise their own independent card. It will make claiming rebates easier for them.
It’s also a good idea to have copies of bank account details, student loan info, room agreement and uni correspondence on hand – although your child will likely have digital copies of these documents if they need to refer to them.
#2: Study supplies
Laptop, pens, notebooks, highlighters and folders. These will come in handy when study kicks off. Your child will use their laptop daily for things like assignments, studying, research, and life admin. A4 ruled notepads or lecture books with binder holes make note-taking in class easy. Highlighters and post-it notes are great for reviewing readings and creating study notes. Another study essential is having something to carry all their gear in. We recommend a strong, comfortable backpack or satchel bag that a laptop and stationery can be transported in around campus.
And help with costs is available. We offer a range of scholarships and grants that can help with the cost of study supplies and make study affordable. Be sure to check them out. Your child can also access computer and printing facilities located at our on-campus student learning commons and library facilities.
#3: Personal products
From healthcare supplies to bathroom products, your child will need to bring with them all the creature comforts and essentials they have enjoyed at home. Personal hygiene products such as shampoo and conditioner, shower gel, toothbrush and toothpaste, and washcloths are a must. A shower caddy and wash bag are highly recommended – they will make transporting toiletries to shared bathrooms a breeze. It’s a good idea for your child to pack their own personal first aid kit. Include things like pain relief, sunscreen, any vitamins or medications, tweezers, bandaids, antiseptic wipes, and hand sanitiser. Earplugs and an eye mask can be handy if your child is a light sleeper.
#4: Clothing for all seasons
Yes, it’s true. When your child comes to study at one of our beautiful regional campuses they may experience four seasons in just one day. That’s why it’s a great idea to come prepared. Tell them to pack their winter woolies as well as comfortable, breezy clothing for when the weather is hot. It’s been known to snow at our Bathurst and Orange campuses, so warm and waterproof gear is a must. Then there’s the wonderful – and often 40 degree – summers at our Dubbo and Wagga Wagga campuses as you head further inland and away from the mountains. So sun-safe gear is essential. And of course, there is our coastal campus at Port Macquarie – so they’ll want to pack their swimming or surfing gear.
It’s also a great idea to pack a few different kinds of footwear, including sports shoes so your child can enjoy the many sporting facilities available on campus. Most of all, your child will want to be comfortable and prepared to look the part in any situation – from heading to a part-time job interview and attending work placements, to sitting in lectures and socialising with mates.
#5: Technology and entertainment
It’s important that your child enjoys their hobbies and interests in their downtime. So packing a few fun activities to share with roommates and friends is always a great idea. Things like board games, playing cards, a games console and music are a great way to relax and have fun. Your child will also need to pack essential items like phone charging cables, batteries, USB memory sticks or hard drives. An extension cord and powerboard can also be useful to have on hand.
Get our checklist of what to take to uni
Before your child gets set to start their next exciting chapter, take a moment with them to check they’re organised for their new life on campus. Download our uni packing checklist and find out the six things your child should do before they arrive on campus.