What to bring (and not bring)

Only bring the essentials as storage in residence is very limited.

Do not send parcels or luggage prior to your arrival as storage or security for these items cannot be guaranteed. Items that arrive before you move in will be returned to the sender.

Need Essentials?

The UofA Bookstore has partnered with My Dorm Store to provide customized move-in packages, tailored to your residence’s requirements. From bedding, towels and more! You can pre-order everything you need and have it delivered directly to the Bookstore before you arrive. Order by August 14, 2026 to have everything you need ready for you on move-in day! 📦 Pre-Order Now

WHAT TO BRING

Necessities

  • Government issued photo ID
  • Health care card and all medications
  • Immunization Status: We encourage all residents to be aware of their immunization status and have a photo or copy of their immunization records for reference. Of special note, measles immunization will be available in Fall 2026. Alberta guidelines recommend two doses at least four weeks apart.
  • Copies of your prescriptions (e.g. medications, glasses, contacts, etc.)
  • Contact information for family and friends

Bathroom supplies

  • Shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.
  • Toiletry items, including hair dryer/curling iron that operates on 110V/60Hz and fits into standard Canadian power outlets
  • Flip flops or shower shoes
  • Travel bidet (one that do not require installation)
  • Bathroom caddy
  • Bathrobe, towels and washcloths
  • Shower curtain (If you are reserved a space in Graduate Residence, Aspen House, Maple House, Alder House, Linden House, Pinecrest House, Tamarack House, Elsey's House and Marge's House)

Bedroom supplies

  • Pillows, pillowcases, blankets, and sheets
    (Graduate Residence, Pinecrest House and Tamarack House are furnished with double beds. All other furnished residences have single beds - we recommend XL Twin sheets)
  • Laundry bag or basket and laundry detergent
  • Electric power bar with surge protection—to protect your electronics
  • Alarm clock
  • Clothes hangers
  • Clothing for all seasons that you can layer
  • Study lamp that does not have a combustible or plastic cover
  • Power adapter
  • Fan
  • A small or handheld vacuum

Kitchen supplies

  • Dishes, pots, pans, cutlery (recommended for apartment-style residences or residences with no meal plan only). Not recommended for Peter Lougheed Hall or Lister residents as there will be no kitchen facilities available.
  • Cooking and heating appliances such as microwaves, coffee makers, hot plates, toasters, toaster ovens, deep fryers, rice cookers and pressure cookers.
    These items are only allowed in apartments and shared kitchens, NOT dorm rooms. These items are fire hazards and having them would be considered a breach of your Residence Agreement.
  • If you’re living in an apartment-style residence with a shared kitchen, it’s highly recommended that you familiarize yourself with how to use a fire extinguisher, which are available in common areas of residence buildings.

Other things to consider

  • Television
  • Mini-fridge no larger than four cubic feet (max 3.5 amps)
  • Headphones for your computer
  • Earplugs
  • Photos of family and friends
  • Items to personalize your room such as posters, plants and pictures
  • Removable hooks or adhesive for mounting photos and posters on your walls
  • Vacuum and/or toilet plunger. You may wish to bring one or plan to purchase one after you arrive if you feel it is needed.
  • Bathroom caddy
  • Dishes and mugs

WHAT NOT TO BRING

These items are not permitted so please do not bring them with you.

  • Furniture
  • Bidet (one that requires installation)
  • Speaker systems
  • Candles, incense, fireworks, sparklers, etc.
  • Guns, knives, weapons, or replica weapons, including air guns, paintball guns, and ammunition
  • Room heating devices or alcohol lamps
  • Air conditioners
  • Hazardous chemicals
  • Extension cords over six feet in length
  • Pets
  • Illegal substances
  • Cooking and heating appliances such as microwaves, coffee makers, hot plates, toasters, toaster ovens, deep fryers, rice cookers and pressure cookers.
    These items are only allowed in apartments and shared kitchens, NOT dorm rooms. These items are fire hazards and having them would be considered a breach of your Residence Agreement.
  • Hoverboards, E-scooters and E-bikes are not permitted inside residence buildings