So you landed a furnished apartment near MUN, CNA, or Academy Canada — congrats! That’s a huge step, and it’ll save you from lugging a couch up three flights of stairs. But “furnished” doesn’t mean move-in ready. There’s still a bunch of stuff you’ll need to do to make the space feel like home.
Bedroom Essentials You’ll Actually Use
Let’s start with the basics: bring bedding. Yes, the apartment might have a mattress, but you’ll need your own sheets, duvet, and pillows. Towels, hangers, a laundry hamper, and even a small rug go a long way in making your space feel more like your space. I also suggest a full-length mirror and a small desk lamp – and you’ll thank yourself when you’re doing 10PM study sessions.
Something you won’t realize until you move in: you’ll miss seeing the people you love. Pack a few printed photos. Trust me—you appreciate seeing their faces more when you’re not around them every day. And while you’re unpacking, make sure you’ve got your speaker, charger, and headphones. Unpacking is boring. At least make it boring with good music.
School Supplies (But Only What You Need)
School supply-wise, don’t go overboard. Grab 3–5 loose-leaf notebooks and a notepad or two. And here’s a solid grad tip: do NOT buy your textbooks until your professor tells you to — in class. Half of them won’t be used. Save your money. Thank me later.
Shared Space Strategy: Kitchen, Living Room, and Bathroom
Now if you’re living in a shared space, the kitchen and bathroom get trickier. My advice? Bring a throw blanket and extra pillow for the living room, dishcloths, dish soap, hand soap, and a basic cutlery set (knives, forks, spoons).
Controversial opinion here, but I don’t think you need a full plate, pot, and glassware set. If you’re living with friends, you’ll probably share. If you’re with people you don’t know, bring 2–3 plates, a couple of bowls, and one big and small pot or pan. That’s all you need — and less stuff means fewer dishes to clean.
Cleaning Supplies You’ll Thank Yourself For
Speaking of cleaning… bring everything. A small vacuum (grab one from Canadian Tire or Walmart), paper towel, cleaning spray, even a Swiffer. You’ll feel way better in a clean space.
For the bathroom, bring toilet paper (yes, even if your roommates do too), extra hand towels, hand soap, a bathroom mat or two, and either Tide pods or detergent. Maybe even a bit of Febreze. You’ll be glad you did.
Don’t Panic Buy – Wait Till You Move In
One more kitchen tip: don’t rush to buy everything. You’re probably not cooking a big meal your first few days. Wait until you get to your apartment and meet your roommates — especially if you don’t know them yet. Chances are, someone already brought a toaster. And while you’re at it, toss in an ice cube tray and a bottle opener. You’ll forget, and then wish you didn’t.
Unpack Like a Pro
Unpacking in a furnished space is easier, but it still sucks. Start with the kitchen, bathroom, and living room — it’s shared space, so it’s easier to get through first. Then move to your room. One last tip: set up your space before you unpack your clothes. It’ll make the process way less chaotic.
Final Advice: Go In With An Open Mind
Whether it’s your first year or your fourth, moving into a student apartment is a fresh start. Keep an open mind, be flexible, and enjoy it. The right space helps get your head in the right place. Good luck — and happy packing!