If you’re unsure as to what to bring, this rough guide should be helpful. You’ll get quite good at packing and the precision of rapid repacking due to the fact that you have to empty your room for every vacation (unless there are certain circumstances when you need to stay in Oxford). If you have any questions, feel free to ask any of the committee members or your college parents!


Clothes

  • Dressing gown – for the inevitable mid-shower fire alarm
  • Sub fusc – dark suit/skirt, white shirt/blouse, white bow-tie/black ribbon, black socks/tights, black shoes, mortar board/soft cap, gown
  • Black tie – obviously optional, but useful for various Oxford balls or events
  • Fancy dress – especially pink & black clothes for your first bop! Primark is especially excellent for all your last minute fancy dress needs and it’s just around the corner!

For your room

  • Bed linen, duvets and pillows
  • Clothes hangers
  • Alarm clock
  • Photos, posters, cushions, rugs, plants etc. (it’s nice for your room to feel homely)
  • Pins & blue tack (tack not allowed on walls in modern rooms)
  • Extension cords (ones that protect from power surges are best, just to be safe)

Hygiene and health

  • Bath & hand towels
  • Basic medical kit – Lemsip (for potential Freshers’ Flu!), Paracetamol, plasters
  • Nail clippers & file
  • Shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, razor, etc.
  • Laundry tablets & fabric softener
  • Laundry basket

Eating and drinking supplies

  • Toaster, kettle
  • Tea, coffee, biscuits, milk, drinks – handy for getting to know your neighbours when you arrive
  • Other food – bread, snacks, wine (for Formal Hall!)
  • Plates, bowls, cutlery, mugs, glasses – only a couple of each
  • Corkscrew / bottle opener
  • Tin opener, saucepans etc. – if you have a kitchen

Work

  • Stationery – scientists bring a long ruler & calculator!
  • A4 paper and folders
  • Relevant school notes & books
  • Computer/laptop, ethernet cable and printer – you can use the JCR computer room if you don’t have these

Miscellaneous

  • Batteries
  • Mini sewing kit
  • Basic tool kit (or just a screwdriver may come in very useful)
  • Bicycle, lock, lights, helmet
  • Bank details and cheque book (also make sure you bring your deposit to pay on arrival)
  • ID
  • NHS registration card
  • Passport photos – for the various forms you will invariably have to fill in, and for some clubs or societies you may join (about 6 should do)
  • Camera, speakers, wires & cables