Going to university is a huge milestone in your life, and what you can learn there extends far beyond the classroom. In the next month or so, you will be entering a whole new phase of your life, and if you are freaking out about what to buy or bring, stop. This guide will help you focus on the investments and purchases you should make and those you shouldn’t:
What to Buy for University
A Good Laptop
If there is one buy that is crucial, either at the start or during your academic career, it is a laptop. School laptops are your go-to tool, and you need one that can comfortably handle all the work that you are going to be doing on it.
If you currently have a serviceable laptop, then start to set aside money in your budget for when that laptop reaches the end of its life, which will likely happen during your university years. By planning ahead, you’ll be able to comfortably replace this critical tool. As for those buying at the start? Use your loan to cover the cost upfront, so you can budget the rest of your living costs better.
A Comfortable Bag
The good news is that you may actually find you have to carry around fewer books than you did in high school. There is not, however, an actual guarantee. You can end up taking out ten massive books for an essay or for your thesis and have to carry these items around.
That is why you need a comfortable bag, or even a few depending on your course. A fun tip is to get a wheeled bag that people have started to use for their groceries, as this will make it far easier to bring around heavy books than bringing them on your back. If a traditional backpack is right for you, choose one that safely stores your items and supports your back.
Food Prep Items
If you live in a self-catered dorm, you will need all the kitchen basics. If you are catered, however, there are still a few things you will want to buy or bring. Food containers are a great example of something you could buy, but chances are you have many options right at home.
Consider the easy meals like cereal, sandwiches, and so on that can be prepared without a kitchen, and bring the items that will make that easier. Cutlery, cups, and a single set of plates and bowls can be a great idea to keep your snacking neat.
What You Should Not Buy for University
Unnecessary Gadgets
It will take time before you know how you work, so don’t jump right in and buy all of the gadgets, from a second monitor to a fancy printer and so on, until you know what you need. Usually, waiting will pay off, either by making you realize you didn’t actually need a Bluetooth keyboard or by making you wait until the items that you do need
What You Might Be Able to Get for Free
With so many students coming and going, don’t be surprised if recent graduates are looking to give things away or if the second-hand shops are full of useful items. From books, to furniture, to clothes, to kitchen supplies, there are many things you may be able to get entirely free, or at the very least for a huge discount.
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