Before you cram literally everything you own into your suitcases, take a minute to read this. Your future self (and your very limited storage space) will thank you.
What NOT to bring
Your entire wardrobe
You do not need every hoodie, pair of jeans, and "just in case" outfit.
Stick to versatile basics, comfy layers, and a few outfits for nights out or special events. Realistically, you'll probably spend most of the year rotating between sweatpants and uOttawa merch anyway. Consider it the unofficial student uniform.
A stack of binders
Most course materials live online these days. If you end up needing a binder or two, check out the Free Store first. It's completely free and usually stocked with hundreds of school supplies. Save your money for something important, like coffee.
Kitchen appliances
Hold off on buying that toaster, blender, or air fryer before move-in.
If you're sharing a space, coordinate with your roommates first so you don't end up with duplicates. And if you're living in residence, you'll be making a lot more trips to the dining hall than gourmet meals in your room.
House plants
Want to make your room feel less like a box and more like a home? Our office regularly gives away free plants from the campus living wall. You can add some greenery to your space without spending a cent. We share our plant giveaways through our monthly newsletter.
Textbooks (for now)
Don't buy textbooks before your first class. Many professors use online readings, open-access resources, or only assign parts of the textbook. No one wants to spend $150 on something that never leaves the shelf. The same goes for leisure books.
Check out:
- The uOttawa Library (they also rent board games)
- Ottawa Public Library
- Campus Little Free Libraries
- The Free Store book carts
A printer
You'll submit most assignments online. For the rare occasion you need a physical copy, there are printers available across campus 24/7. Save yourself the money, space, and frustration of troubleshooting printer errors at 2 a.m.
What TO bring
Reusable storage bins
Storage bins are a move-in MVP. They're perfect for organizing seasonal clothes, extra bedding, or random supplies. As a bonus, you'll avoid contributing to the mountain of cardboard boxes that get used once and then tossed after move-in day.
A reusable mug and water bottle
These are student essentials.
Why you'll want them:
- Bring your own mug and get discounts at campus coffee shops.
- Muggy Mornings offers free coffee on select days if you bring a mug.
- uOttawa is bottled-water free, so reusable bottles are the way to go. Water refill stations are everywhere on campus.
- Need one? The Free Store often has reusable mugs and bottles available for free.
A power bar
Residence rooms never seem to have enough outlets. A power bar helps you charge all your devices, protects your electronics from power surges, and can reduce "phantom power" (that sneaky energy your devices use even when you're not actively using them).
Sustainable shopping tips
Buy second-hand first
Before buying new, check:
- Buy Nothing groups
- Facebook Marketplace
- Kijiji
- Local thrift stores
- The Free Store
You'll save money and keep perfectly good items out of the landfill.
Wait before you buy
It can be tempting to buy everything before move-in day, but try living in your space for a few weeks first. You might discover that half the things on your shopping list weren't actually necessary.
Choose quality over quantity
A cheap $10 item that breaks after a few months isn't really a bargain. Try to avoid impulse purchases driven by flashy discounts and fast-fashion trends. Investing in well-made items that last longer usually saves money (and waste) in the long run.
The bottom line
The less stuff you bring, the less stuff you'll have to move out, store, donate, or throw away at the end of the year.
So keep it simple: Pack less than you think. Shop second-hand. Check the Free Store first.
Your wallet, your room, and the planet will all be happier for it.
~ Holly, senior officer of sustainability
