Top 10 things to do before moving into halls
Whether it’s your first time at university or you are returning to halls for your second or third year, getting ready to go to university can be both exciting and daunting. With all that nervous energy you may well forget some of the essential things that you will need to do prior to your move. Here are the top 10 things to remember in preparation for the big day.
1. Bank accounts
Even in tough financial times banks are falling over themselves to offer university students a bank account as they assume that you will be the high earners of the future. Due to this competition, you will find all sorts of good offers from banks, including interest-free overdrafts, loans and other goodies, such as a free 16-25 Railcard. Have a look around and see which suits you best.
2. TV Licence
It may seem like the last thing that you should be thinking about during your preparations for university, but getting a TV Licence now can save you all sorts of problems in the future.
To set the record straight, you will need a TV Licence if you watch or record television programmes as they're being shown on TV – online, on a TV, or on any device (even a laptop) whilst your in halls. This includes shows such as the X-Factor, Big Brother or even your favourite competitive sport. TV Licensing also make it easy for you to pay in manageable instalments if you don’t wish to pay the fee off all in one go.
3. Clothes
You may fancy buying new clothes with the seemingly large loan and overdraft that you have procured. This nest egg is much smaller than it seems and it will dwindle quickly during a long term of social activity. Try to avoid buying new clothes and instead stock up from your wardrobe at home.
4. The basics
Most universities have decent facilities for cooking and cleaning. You will still need to take some basic cooking utensils along with pans, crockery and some cutlery. Otherwise you may find yourself eating at the chip shop every night.
5. Computer
You can obtain a speedy laptop for as little as £250 these days and many companies offer students a discount on top. A computer is vital for all the assignments you will get so, again, survey the market and see what’s on offer.
6. Study manuals
Buying books and study guides are another expensive part of the student process. If your parent’s can’t pay for all the necessary course books, why not try going into the students’ union and get your hands on some second-hand versions. You will probably only need them for a year anyway and most student bookshops have excellent variety with good concessions.
7. Travel
Most students will not be able to afford a car so do some research about the area that you are moving to and the public transport links that will be available to you. If you don’t get a student travel card you will be paying as much as double for each of your fares.
8. Phones
Your parents and loved ones are gong to want regular updates and this can be expensive on the wrong contracts. Companies like giffgaff offer unbelievable deals on non-contract SIM cards. You can, for example, get 250 minutes talk time, unlimited texts and data for £10 a month all-inclusive.
9. Transport to halls of residence
Have you thought about how you are going to get your belongings to university? Many will again look to their parents for this job but if that’s not an option you can rent cars from places like easyCar for relatively small amounts. Many companies also offer students discounts here. If you don’t drive, look for companies that offer good rates for a van and driver.
10. Earplugs!
You probably aren’t planning to get too much sleep when at university but there will be the odd occasion when you need some rest before a big day. Halls tend to have thin walls and lots of parties. Make sure you pack some earplugs for the nights when socialising isn’t an option.
