Pre-move-in checklist: what to pack and what to leave at home

Moving to Brno to go to university is a big step: a new city, a new university, a new place to live, and a head full of questions. That’s exactly why it’s handy to have a student’s moving checklist to hand, so you don’t forget anything important whilst also avoiding the hassle of lugging half your household with you.

We’ve put together a practical list for you of what to pack, what to sort out on arrival and, most importantly, what you don’t need to bring to the ABC Student & Home halls of residence at all. You’ll see that moving to Brno can be a surprisingly stress-free experience.

Documents you can’t do without

Pack your documents so that you always have them to hand. Before you set off, check that you have the following with you:

• your ID card or, if applicable, your passport,
• your health insurance card,
• study documents: your letter of acceptance or confirmation of enrolment,
• a passport photo (useful for your ISIC card and other student ID cards),
• important contacts saved on your phone, including the number for ABC Student & Home +420 601 234 583 (Mon–Fri 8 am to 4 pm), in case you need any advice when moving in.

What to pack: less is more

Some good news right at the start: you’re moving into a fully equipped flat, so you really only need to pack your personal belongings. The basics are as follows:

• seasonal clothing and a pair of comfortable slippers,
• a laptop, chargers and headphones for studying,
• toiletries and towels,
• any medication you take regularly, glasses or contact lenses,
• school supplies and notes that’ll come in handy in the first semester,
• a few little things to make you feel at home: your favourite mug, photos or a plant.

If you’re still unsure which type of room is right for you, have a look at the article ‘Studio, single or double’. The type of room you choose will determine how much space you’ll have for your belongings.

What to sort out upon arrival in Brno

Your first few days in a new city are ideal for a few practical errands. None of them are a race against the clock, but the sooner you tick them off your list, the sooner you’ll have peace of mind:

• a public transport season ticket: as a student, you’re usually entitled to reduced fares; check the specific conditions with the transport operator,
• register with a GP, or at the very least find out where the nearest GP’s surgery is and where the nearest chemist’s is,
• updating your delivery address with online retailers and in your online banking,
• familiarise yourself with the local area: where the bus stop, supermarket and café are, and how to get to your faculty.

The ‘Residences and Location’ page will help you with the last point; there you’ll find journey times from each residence. For example, from Tyršova 70, it’s a 15-minute walk to the Faculty of Information Studies at Brno University of Technology (VUT FSI), and from Střední 15, it’s a 12-minute walk to the Faculty of Informatics at Masaryk University (MUNI).

What you don’t need to bring to the ABC Student & Home residence

And now for the pleasant part of the checklist: a list of things you can safely leave at home. All units in our halls of residence are newly and modernly furnished and fully equipped.

• Bedding: this is provided, so you don’t need to bring duvets or bed linen.
• Kitchen equipment: crockery, pots and cutlery are all waiting for you. The kitchen is fully equipped; for SINGLE and DOUBLE rooms, it’s shared and includes a dishwasher.
• Furniture: the bed and storage space are all set up – there’s really no need to haul a wardrobe halfway across the country.
• Wi-Fi router: high-speed internet is included in the rent; simply connect to the network.
• Washing machine: there’s a self-service laundry room in the communal area of the residence, where you’ll also find a study room.

And one final perk: utilities – including electricity, water and heating – are included in the rent, so once you’ve moved in, you can focus solely on your studies and getting to know your new city.

A week before you leave: a quick check

To ensure a stress-free move, go through this short checklist one last time:

1. Check your documents against the first list.
2. Take a virtual tour of your accommodation on the website so you know exactly where you’re going.
3. Agree with your flatmates who’s bringing what, so you don’t end up with two hairdryers and no extension lead.
4. Pack your things into smaller bags and boxes – they’re easier to carry.
5. Get a good night’s sleep – your first week in Brno will be packed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to bring my own bedding or crockery to the hall of residence?

No, you don’t. All accommodation units are fully equipped, including kitchenware and bedding. All you need to bring are your personal belongings, clothes and a good mood.

How does the accommodation booking process work?

A booking is non-binding and serves as an expression of interest; it is therefore not a confirmed booking and does not guarantee a place. Fill in the booking form on the website (first name and surname, telephone number, residence, room type and length of stay – 10 or 12 months) and you’ll receive a reply within 3 working days at the latest. A couple or group of friends should submit a single joint application. You can find further details in the article ‘How ABC Student & Home bookings work’.

Where can I do my washing in the residence?

You don’t need to bring a washing machine with you. The residence has a common room with a self-service laundry, so you can do your washing conveniently right there in the building.

Have you ticked everything off your checklist? Then there’s just one thing left to do: choose a room that suits you. Take a look at the Rooms and Price List, browse the virtual tours and submit a non-binding booking via the form on our website. We look forward to welcoming you to Brno.