Heading to university is an exciting new chapter—especially if you’re moving away from home. But between sorting accommodation, meeting course deadlines, and saying goodbye to family, it’s easy to forget some essentials.
Whether you’re a first-year fresher or returning for another term, this Back to Uni Checklist has everything you need to settle into student life—from cookware to course supplies.
And the best part? You can grab it all in one trip at Cannon Park Shopping Centre.
Uni Room Essentials
Create a cosy, functional space that feels like home.
Top Shops at Cannon Park:
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One Beyond– affordable bedding, towels, and décor
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Tesco – decorative accessories, wall art, storage
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Bargain Buys – everyday homeware basics
Checklist:
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Duvet & pillows
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Duvet cover & sheet sets
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Towels (bath & hand)
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Laundry basket or bag
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Desk lamp
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Storage boxes/drawers
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Coat hangers
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Wall hooks or command strips
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Blanket/throw
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Room fragrance or diffuser
Kitchen Kit
Avoid kitchen chaos with your own student-friendly gear.
Top Shops at Cannon Park:
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Tesco– cookware basics, utensils, and crockery
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One Beyond– food storage, mugs, and kitchen staples
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Iceland – freezer-friendly meals and snacks
- Subway / Greggs — quick meals when cooking’s not an option (and great backup)
Checklist:
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Saucepan & frying pan
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Cutlery & utensils
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Plates, bowls & mugs
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Chopping board
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Tupperware/food storage
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Can opener & peeler
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Tea towels & oven gloves
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Kettle (check accommodation rules)
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Reusable water bottle
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Reusable coffee cup
Study Supplies
Set yourself up for success with the right tools for lectures and revision.
Top Shops at Cannon Park:
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Tesco – affordable stationery, study guides
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Card Factory – notebooks, pens, desk organisers
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Boots – reading glasses and small desk accessories
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Post Office — postcards, envelopes, maybe planners
- Bargain Buys — stationery, journals, folders
Checklist:
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Notebooks & journals
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Pens, highlighters & markers
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Laptop or tablet
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USB drive/external hard drive
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Sticky notes & index tabs
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Folders or ring binders
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Desk organiser
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Academic planner or diary
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Calculator
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Backpack or tote bag
Personal Care & Toiletries
Bring your bathroom favourites and daily self-care musts.
Top Shops at Cannon Park:
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Boots – toiletries, grooming kits, skincare
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Holland & Barrett – vitamins and supplements
Checklist:
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Shampoo & conditioner
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Body wash & face cleanser
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Deodorant
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Toothbrush & toothpaste
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Hairbrush & hair products
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Nail clippers & tweezers
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Skincare essentials
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Shaving kit (razor, foam, trimmer)
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Period products
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First aid kit (plasters, paracetamol, etc.)
Shoes & Everyday Clothing
Pack for lectures, socials, and everything in between.
Top Shops at Cannon Park:
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Sports Direct – trainers, casual shoes, sportswear
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Peacocks – affordable everyday clothing
Checklist:
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Smart shoes (for presentations or job interviews)
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Trainers
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Casual shoes or boots
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Flip flops/slippers (for halls)
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Socks & underwear
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Casual wear for lectures
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Gym gear
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Warm coat
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Going-out outfits
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Accessories (belts, hats, bags)
Ready, Set, Uni!
Whether you’re preparing for your first time living away from home or just need a refresh for the new term, Cannon Park Shopping Centre has everything you need—all in one go. From stylish shoes to student tech, room décor to ready meals, your back-to-uni checklist is sorted.
