What to Pack & Where to Shop at Cannon Park

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:

• One Beyond– affordable bedding, towels, and décor

• Tesco – decorative accessories, wall art, storage

• Bargain Buys – everyday homeware basics

 

Checklist:

• Duvet & pillows

• Duvet cover & sheet sets

• Towels (bath & hand)

• Laundry basket or bag

• Desk lamp

• Storage boxes/drawers

• Coat hangers

• Wall hooks or command strips

• Blanket/throw

• Room fragrance or diffuser

 

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Kitchen Kit

Avoid kitchen chaos with your own student-friendly gear.

Top Shops at Cannon Park:

• Tesco– cookware basics, utensils, and crockery

• One Beyond– food storage, mugs, and kitchen staples

• Iceland – freezer-friendly meals and snacks

• Subway / Greggs — quick meals when cooking’s not an option (and great backup)

 

Checklist:

• Saucepan & frying pan

• Cutlery & utensils

• Plates, bowls & mugs

• Chopping board

• Tupperware/food storage

• Can opener & peeler

• Tea towels & oven gloves

• Kettle (check accommodation rules)

• Reusable water bottle

• Reusable coffee cup

 

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Cleaning & Laundry

Stay on top of mess, even if mum isn’t there to remind you.

Top Shops at Cannon Park:

• Tesco – cleaning products, laundry detergent

• Iceland– multi-purpose sprays, antibacterial wipes

 

Checklist:

• Laundry detergent & fabric softener

• Drying rack

• Cleaning wipes & spray

• Dishwashing liquid

• Sponges & scrubbers

• Bin bags

• Air freshener

• Iron or handheld steamer

• Limescale remover

• Rubber gloves

 

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Study Supplies

Set yourself up for success with the right tools for lectures and revision.

Top Shops at Cannon Park:

• Tesco – affordable stationery, study guides

• Card Factory – notebooks, pens, desk organisers

• Boots – reading glasses and small desk accessories

• Post Office — postcards, envelopes, maybe planners

• Bargain Buys — stationery, journals, folders

 

Checklist:

• Notebooks & journals

• Pens, highlighters & markers

• Laptop or tablet

• USB drive/external hard drive

• Sticky notes & index tabs

• Folders or ring binders

• Desk organiser

• Academic planner or diary

• Calculator

• Backpack or tote bag

 

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Tech & Gadgets

Stay connected, productive, and entertained in your new space.

Top Shops at Cannon Park:

• Tesco Mobile – data plans, phone upgrades

• CeX– small tech accessories like chargers or cables

 

Checklist:

• Laptop or tablet

• Printer (compact preferred)

• Extension leads & power banks

• Headphones or earbuds

• Bluetooth speaker

• USB stick

• HDMI cable (for TV or monitor)

• Surge-protector extension cord

• Webcam (if not built-in)

• Phone charger & cable backups

 

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Personal Care & Toiletries

Bring your bathroom favourites and daily self-care musts.

Top Shops at Cannon Park:

• Boots – toiletries, grooming kits, skincare

• Holland & Barrett – vitamins and supplements

 

Checklist:

• Shampoo & conditioner

• Body wash & face cleanser

• Deodorant

• Toothbrush & toothpaste

• Hairbrush & hair products

• Nail clippers & tweezers

• Skincare essentials

• Shaving kit (razor, foam, trimmer)

• Period products

• First aid kit (plasters, paracetamol, etc.)

 

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Shoes & Everyday Clothing

Pack for lectures, socials, and everything in between.

Top Shops at Cannon Park:

• Sports Direct – trainers, casual shoes, sportswear

• Peacocks – affordable everyday clothing

 

Checklist:

• Smart shoes (for presentations or job interviews)

• Trainers

• Casual shoes or boots

• Flip flops/slippers (for halls)

• Socks & underwear

• Casual wear for lectures

• Gym gear

• Warm coat

• Going-out outfits

• Accessories (belts, hats, bags)

 

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Snacks & Essentials

Stock up for late-night study sessions and quick bites.

Top Shops at Cannon Park:

• Tesco – snacks, cupboard staples, and fresh produce

• Iceland – frozen ready meals and treats

• Holland & Barrett – protein snacks, healthy options

 

Checklist:

• Coffee & tea

• Instant noodles or pasta

• Cereal or breakfast bars

• Biscuits & sweet treats

• Tinned foods

• Rice & pasta

• Condiments & sauces

• Bottled water or squash

• Protein bars or shakes

• Reusable shopping bags

 

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Bonus Extras

Add a few creature comforts to make your new space feel personal.

Top Shops at Cannon Park:

• One Beyond – wall art, hobbies, games

• Tesco – fairy lights, soft furnishings, décor

• Boots – wellness items

 

Checklist:

• Photos from home

• Fairy lights or desk lamp

• Wall calendar or planner

• Cards & games for flatmates

• Hobbies (paint set, knitting, etc.)

• Plant or faux greenery

• Speaker for music

• Bedside organiser

• Water bottle for lectures

• Journal or wellness tracker

 

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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.