Halls room hacks you need to know

Most student accommodations are designed with your needs in mind. The furniture is usually built-in, with handy storage options like under-bed storage, shelves, and drawers. These will be essential for keeping your space organised, especially since you’re likely to bring more than you’ll need. I found the under-bed storage perfect for stashing items I didn’t use often, like coats, extra towels, or bedding.

Vertical organisers are also great for smaller items that might not fit elsewhere. These can be easily hung on hooks. If hooks aren’t provided in your room, you can buy stick-on or over-the-door hooks from stores like Amazon, Home Bargains, or B&M—just make sure to check with your accommodation first to see if stick-on hooks are allowed.

I found it challenging to fit all my clothes into the space provided— of course, I didn’t end up wearing half of them! But using stackable clothes organisers and hanger connector hooks really helped me maximise the space. Drawer dividers were also a game-changer; I used plastic baskets as a budget-friendly way to keep everything organised.

Another tip is to invest in a shoe rack. It not only makes your room look more organised but also adds extra storage space—especially helpful if you’re bringing a lot of shoes. If you have an en-suite, a bathroom stand is a must for keeping things tidy. Opt for a plastic, waterproof one to ensure it lasts longer.

One of my favourite parts of moving into my room in halls was personalising the space. Adding some alternative lighting, like a table lamp, mood lamp, or LED/fairy lights, can really create a cozy ambiance. Personal touches, like photos and posters, can make the room feel more like home.

For affordable posters, On the Wall often puts on some great deals. Plus, you can check out the poster stalls during Fresher’s Fair for more options. If you’re looking to support local businesses in Leeds, there are countless options to choose from - you'll find some independent gems in Kirkgate Market, The Corn Exchange and exploring little shops around Headingley!

Adding bits of your personality to your room not only makes it feel more like home but also helps you settle in more comfortably.

Adding small decor touches can make a huge difference in how your room feels. Consider items like candles, plants, table mirrors, storage baskets, and tumblers. You can find affordable options at stores like Primark, Home Bargains, B&M, and Ikea.

Investing in throws, cushions, or rugs that you love can also help personalise the space. Bringing items from home can add comfort and familiarity while keeping costs down. TK Maxx is great for finding some bargains — definitely worth checking out.

Ultimately, making your room feel like yours will make the transition from home much easier. Focus on turning it into your safe place and somewhere you want to show off to your new friends.

One essential you'll need is an extension lead, especially one with USB ports. Trust me, this will be a lifesaver if you find yourself short of plug sockets or dealing with inconveniently placed outlets. When I first moved in, I struggled with a lack of sockets and ended up wishing I had brought a better extension lead. It added unnecessary stress on move-in day, and I ended up having to go out and buy a more suitable one.

Another must-have is a laundry basket with handles and a lid. This makes laundry day much easier, especially when you transport your washing from your room to a shared washing machine. I learned the hard way—my first laundry basket didn’t have handles or a lid, so I ended up awkwardly scooping it up from the bottom and dropping clothes down the hall. The lid is mainly for privacy and helps keep your laundry contained, while handles make carrying it much more manageable. If you want to go the extra mile, a laundry hamper that separates clothes into colours, darks and whites can save you time.

Additionally, a bedside caddy can be a game-changer for extra storage. It’s perfect for keeping essentials like your phone, charger, and books within arm’s reach. I didn’t have one at first and found myself constantly scrambling for my phone in the middle of the night. A bedside caddy made a huge difference in keeping my room organised and functional.

One common mistake students make is overpacking—trust me, I’ve been there. It’s important to be realistic about what you really need to bring. You’re probably not going to wear that top you haven’t touched in a year. Most of the essential furniture will be provided, so focus on the small touches that will make your room feel like home.

You don’t need to go overboard or spend a fortune to achieve this. Remember, your room is likely to be small, so be mindful of space when packing. My advice is to pack only what you know you’ll need. Don’t stress too much about having everything perfect right away—anything missing can be sorted out after you’ve moved in. It’s often better to see the space first and then decide what extras you want to add.

Keep in mind that you’ll be living in this room for a whole year and will likely accumulate more belongings over time. Everything you cram in now will eventually need to be moved to your second-year accommodation, so think about making things easier for future you.