Student Apartment Essentials: What You Actually Need (and What You Don’t)
Moving into your student apartment is one of the most exciting parts of university life, a fresh start, a new space, and your first real taste of independence. But if you’ve ever packed your entire room into three suitcases, only to unpack chaos, you know it’s easy to overdo it.
Whether you’re settling into student apartments in Minneapolis or any other student city, knowing what you actually need versus what just eats up space is a game-changer. This guide breaks it all down, so you can save money, space, and your sanity.
The Real Must-Haves: Student Apartment Essentials That Matter
Don’t buy random things right away. Practical comfort is a priority for students, especially those living in smaller housing or city apartments.
The Bedroom
You’ll be doing everything here: studying, relaxing, and probably eating.
Essentials:
Bedding: A duvet, two fitted sheets, and a set of pillowcases. Comfort is key.
Mattress protector: It keeps your mattress clean and helps it last longer.
Pillows: Just get two.
Before adding random gadgets to your cart, focus on what makes student life comfortable and practical, especially if you’re in smaller city apartments or shared student housing.
1. Bedroom Basics
You’ll be doing everything here: studying, relaxing, and probably eating.
Essentials:
- Bedding: A duvet, two fitted sheets, and a set of pillowcases. Comfort is key.
- Mattress protector: It keeps your mattress clean and helps it last longer.
- Pillows: Just get two.
- Desk setup: A study lamp, comfy chair, and enough stationery to survive exam season.
- Storage bins or organisers: Great for saving space in compact student apartments.
- Extension leads: There’s always one socket too few.
Skip it: Extra pillows, fluffy throws, or bulky décor items that only make your room look smaller.
2. Kitchen Necessities
Whether you’re cooking for one or hosting flat dinners in your apartment near University of Minnesota, a functional kitchen setup keeps you from living on instant noodles.
Essentials:
- One pot, one pan, and a baking tray: Simple but versatile.
- Utensils: Knife, fork, spoon, spatula, and a chopping board.
- Plates, bowls, and mugs: Two of each is plenty.
- Storage containers: Ideal for leftovers and meal prep.
- Reusable bottle or mug: You’ll thank yourself later during morning lectures.
Skip it: Toasters, rice cookers, or coffee machines unless you’re really going to use them.
3. Bathroom Basics
Small bathrooms need efficiency, not excess.
Essentials:
- Towels: Two bath towels and one hand towel.
- Toiletries: Shampoo, soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, the basics.
- Shower caddy: Keeps your stuff organised and easy to grab.
- Cleaning supplies: A toilet brush, disinfectant wipes, and air freshener.
Skip it: Bath mats, candle sets, or unnecessary decor that just gets damp.
4. Cleaning & Laundry Must-Haves
Yes, adulting includes cleaning.
Essentials:
- Multipurpose cleaner and cloths: Works on desks, floors, and kitchen tops.
- Laundry detergent: Pods are the easiest option.
- Hangers and a drying rack: Compact and functional.
- Mini vacuum or broom: Great for student apartments in Minneapolis with carpeted rooms.
Skip it: Irons or ironing boards, most clothes survive just fine without them.
5. Study & Tech Setup
Your study setup determines your productivity, especially during long nights before exams.
Essentials:
- Laptop and charger: The non-negotiable.
- Headphones: For focus or background music.
- Extension cord with surge protection: Keeps all devices powered safely.
- Desk organiser: For notes, pens, and cables.
Skip it: Printers or extra monitors unless required for your course.
Nice-to-Haves: For Comfort and Personality
Once the essentials are sorted, add a few touches that make your space feel like home.
- Fairy lights or LED strips: Affordable and cosy lighting.
- Small plants or succulents: Low-maintenance and cheerful.
- Compact kettle or coffee maker: Perfect for caffeine emergencies.
- Throw rug: Adds warmth to colder climates like Minneapolis winters.
These aren’t must-haves, but they’ll make your student apartment in Minneapolis feel truly yours.
The “Do Not Pack” Zone
Save yourself the hassle (and extra baggage fees).
Avoid packing:
- Extra furniture (your apartment is likely fully furnished).
- Wall art or tapestries that might violate your lease.
- Duplicate items (coordinate with roommates).
- Too many clothes, laundry exists for a reason.
Remember, minimalism makes moving easier and keeps your space stress-free.
Packing Smart: Pro Tips Before Moving In
- Start early: Create a checklist before your move.
- Check your lease: Most apartments near the University of Minnesota already include essentials like a bed, desk, and chair.
- Buy local: Pick up bulkier items after moving, Minneapolis has plenty of affordable stores near campus.
- Share responsibly: Split bigger purchases (like cleaning tools) with your flatmates.
- Prioritise functionality: Every item should earn its place.
Final Thoughts: Less Clutter, More Comfort
Moving into a new student apartment marks a big step towards independence, but that doesn’t mean you need to overpack. Focus on comfort, practicality, and a few personal touches that make your new space feel like home. Because the right student apartment, with just the right essentials, sets you up for a smooth, successful university journey.
How can amber help you?
amber helps you secure ideal student accommodation on your study abroad journey. Having served 80 million students (and counting), amber is your one-stop shop for all your accommodation needs. Download the amber app from the Google Play Store or App Store to book an affordable home for your adventure.
About author
Bhavna.S is a storyteller at heart who loves weaving words into engaging narratives. When not writing, she can be found sipping chai while lost in a book, taking long walks to clear her mind, or planning her next travel adventure – only to end up binge-watching a documentary instead.
