Before I started my PhD, I thought, ‘what do I need to buy before uni?’ I basically had NO IDEA what I would need. I mean, I’d only even found out about my funding a few weeks before, didn’t have my final supervision team set, and had no idea what to expect. If you’re in the same boat, don’t worry, I’m here to help! I’ve compiled a list of my top grad school necessities, so you’ll be well prepared for your first day!
This article is all about what you need to buy before uni, in particular, if you’re doing a graduate degree (though it applies for undergrads as well!). I’ll go through my top grad school necessities and give you my best recommendations for each.
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So let’s get in to my answer to the question, ‘what do I need to buy before uni?
1. A Laptop That Actually Supports Your Life
Your laptop becomes your study buddy, your late-night entertainment system, your research tool, and your safe little world when homesickness hits.
Look for:
- light enough to carry across campus
- strong battery life
- SSD storage for fast booting
- a keyboard you won’t hate during 20-page papers
And please, grab a small external SSD for backups.
It’s not dramatic to say it can save your semester.
2. Noise-Cancelling Headphones (Your Sanity Shield)
Dorms are loud.
Libraries aren’t always quiet.
Group housing? Forget it.
Noise-cancelling headphones give you:
- space
- focus
- a sense of control in chaotic places
- a soft little bubble to breathe in
They’re a gift to your nervous system.
3. A Planner or Digital Organizer
When assignments, readings, and responsibilities start stacking up, keeping track of everything becomes its own job.
A planner helps you:
- break big tasks into small ones
- avoid academic panic
- build routines that feel calming
- take your power back
Now, it’s up to you if you want to plan things on paper or on your phone. I, personally, do both. I do my weekly plans on a calendar like this FREE printable one I’ve created:
4. A Backpack That Loves Your Body
Your back will be carrying:
- your laptop
- books
- snacks (always snacks)
- water
- emergency layers
- whatever life chaos is happening that day
Choose something with:
- padded straps
- a laptop sleeve
- room for self-care items
- a style that makes you feel good
You deserve comfort while you chase your goals.
5. Dorm & Kitchen Basics (Keep It Minimal)
You don’t need a Pinterest-perfect room to feel at home.
Just grab:
- a few microwave-safe bowls
- cutlery
- a water bottle
- storage bins
- a kettle or small coffee maker
- a handful of quick-meal staples
You’ll figure out the rest once you settle in and see what you truly use.
6. A “Comfort Kit” for Emotional Survival
Uni can be joyful and stressful, sometimes in the same hour.
Create a tiny kit that keeps you grounded.
Consider:
- soft bedding
- a cozy hoodie
- your favorite tea
- skincare you love
- a journal
- a small first-aid pouch
- anything that makes you feel safe
Comfort isn’t optional — it’s part of thriving.
7. A Small Piece of Home
This part is so important and so often forgotten.
Bring something that reminds you of who you are when everything feels new.
Maybe it’s:
- a photo
- a book
- a tiny piece of décor
- a gift from someone who loves you
- a familiar scent
It doesn’t have to be big.
Just something that whispers, “You belong here.”
Final Thoughts
You don’t have to have everything figured out before you arrive.
You don’t need to buy half of Target.
You just need the basics — and a few little things that help your heart settle into this next chapter.
You’re going to be okay.
You’re going to grow.
And you’re allowed to feel everything that comes with that.
issing as you settle in.
But these basics?
They’ll make your life smoother from day one.
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