The Best Deals on Uni Essentials
Posted by Ciara on 01 September 2025. Updated on 01 September 2025
The Best Deals on Uni Essentials
It’s that time of year again, so if you’re heading into your first year or returning for another year, the start of the Uni year can be super expensive. Whether you’re kitting out your Uni Hall or upgrading your tech, now is the time to take advantage of the best UK deals on Uni essentials. A load of UK retailers are offering major discounts on products to make your Uni life easier.
Here’s your go-to guide for where to find the top uni essentials deals in 2025, and how to make the most of them.
Student Living Essentials: Make Your Halls Feel Like Home
Setting up your student room is about your comfort, a sprinkle of practicality, and a bit of YOU. Luckily, many homeware retailers are offering major discounts around this time of year.
Bedding & Linens: Look out for duvets, pillows, mattress toppers, and sheet bundles at student-friendly prices.
Kitchen Starter Packs: Everything from cutlery to kettles and toasters are often sold in discounted sets designed with students in mind.
Storage Solutions: Under-bed boxes, hanging organisers, and foldable bins can help maximise small spaces.
Tech & Study Supplies: Get Lecture-Ready
Whether it’s for writing essays, completing assignments, or just staying connected with your mates and project partners, tech is one area you don’t want to compromise on, but you also don’t need to pay full price.
Laptops & Tablets: Many retailers offer student-exclusive discounts or free software packages (e.g., Office 365).
Headphones & Accessories: Wireless earbuds, noise-cancelling headphones, and laptop stands are often discounted in September sales.
Stationery & Organisation: Notebooks, planners, pens, and folders. It’s best to stock up now while bundles are reduced.
Fashion & Footwear: Fresh Fit for Freshers
The back-to-uni season is the perfect excuse to refresh your wardrobe. Many popular brands run student promotions or offer exclusive discounts with a valid student ID or via platforms like UNiDAYS or Student Beans.
Casualwear: Hoodies, joggers, tees, you’ll find that many brands are running bundle deals or multibuy offers.
Outerwear & Footwear: September sales often include discounts on trainers, coats, and waterproof gear perfect for campus commutes.
Food & Kitchen Basics: Fuel for the Term Ahead
Cooking on a budget doesn’t mean boring meals — especially with the right tools and pantry basics. Look out for discounts on:
Student Cookbooks & Meal Kits
Microwaves, Slow Cookers & Air Fryers
Reusable lunch boxes, water bottles, and thermos flasks
Travel & Transport: Get Around for Less
From heading home for the holidays to getting around campus, transport costs add up quickly. But there are great ways to save:
Railcards: Many bank accounts and services offer free or discounted 16-25 Railcards.
Bikes & E-Scooters: Look for seasonal sales on commuting-friendly transport options.
Luggage & Backpacks: Many stores offer back-to-uni deals on luggage and bags designed for student life.
Tips to Make the Most of Uni Deals:
Make a Checklist
Start with what you actually need. Essentials first, then any fun extras. This keeps you on budget and helps avoid needless overspending.
Use Student Discount Platforms
Sign up to UNiDAYS, Student Beans, or with us to unlock even more savings. Don’t forget to use your student email to access these.
Activate Widilo Cashback
Earn cashback on your purchases from your favourite retailers — every bit adds up. Cashback percentages can range from 1% to 10%, depending on the store.
Buy in Bundles
Many retailers offer bundle deals specifically designed for students, especially for bedding, kitchenware, and stationery. These offer better value than buying individually.
Shop Early
The best deals (and stock) don’t last. Be quick, especially on tech and home items that are in high demand during back-to-uni season. Nobody wants to be left short in the lead-up to term.
Final Thoughts: Shop Smart & Save More
Heading to uni doesn’t have to break the bank. With a little planning (and the right deals), you can get everything you need without overspending. Whether you’re setting up a new space, getting the right study setup, or just treating yourself to a fresh look, there are gonna be some great deals out there waiting for you.
Sign up to Widilo today to start earning cashback while you shop, and don’t forget to check back for more smart savings tips and exclusive offers throughout the year!
