The ultimate student room checklist: Everything you need for your kot at JACKEY

Moving into your new student room in Ghent or student housing in Brussels? Packing can feel overwhelming, but with the right essentials, you’ll settle in quickly and make your new kot feel like home from the very first day.

Whether you’re about to kot huren at The Root or The Arch in Ghent, or moving into KVS in Brussels, this JACKEY checklist covers everything you need. We’ve broken it down by room: bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, and those little extras that make all the difference.

We know first-hand what you actually need and what you can safely leave at home.

Bedroom: Make your student room cosy and functional

Your bedroom is where you’ll study, unwind, and (hopefully) get enough sleep. Getting this space right is key to a productive and comfortable student life.

Sleep essentials:

• Mattress and mattress protector for comfort and hygiene
• Cosy duvet with duvet cover, fitted sheet, pillows, and pillowcases
• A small bedside lamp or reading light for those late-night study sessions

Storage and organisation:

• Plenty of clothes hangers
• Laundry basket to keep your room tidy and schlep your dirty clothes home
• Door hooks or over-the-door organisers for extra storage space

Personal touches:

• Cushions, throw blankets, and picture frames to make your studentenkamer feel like yours
• Stationery: notepads, post-its, pens, and highlighters in every available colour

JACKEY tip: Our rooms come fully furnished with high-quality furniture. No need to bring a desk, bed, or wardrobe — just focus on the personal items that truly make your student room your own.

Bathroom: Organised from day one

Whether your student room in Ghent has a private ensuite or you’re sharing facilities, these essentials have you covered.

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, and personal toiletries
• Towels and a bath mat
• Shower gel, shampoo, and conditioner
• Small bin
• Toilet roll and toilet brush
• Cleaning supplies and a shelf organiser (ideal for ensuites)

JACKEY tip: At JACKEY, communal areas are professionally cleaned and maintained. You only need to worry about keeping your own space tidy.

Kitchen: ready to cook (or at least give it a go)

Whether you’re using a shared kitchen or have your own studio as part of your student housing in Brussels, these items are non-negotiable.

Plates and cutlery:

• Plates, bowls, mugs, and glasses
• Cutlery, chopping knives, and a sturdy chopping board

Cooking essentials:

• Kettle and toaster
• Wooden spoon, spatula, tin opener, cheese grater, scissors, and bottle opener
• Saucepans and frying pans
• Oven trays, oven gloves, and tea towels

Supplies:

• Kitchen roll, cling film, and aluminium foil

JACKEY tip: Start with the basics and expand as you discover what you actually use. Many JACKEY residents share cookware in the communal kitchen — it’s a great way to meet your neighbours and break the ice.

The little extras that make a big difference

These small items seem unimportant until the moment you need them. Students who already kot huren at JACKEY will tell you: these extras are worth their weight in gold.

• Air freshener (thank us later), spare batteries, and extension cables
• Umbrella or rain jacket — nobody enjoys starting the day soaking wet, especially in Belgium
• Hot water bottle for chilly evenings
• Small sewing kit for quick fixes
• A disposable camera to capture all the new memories you’ll make
• Headphones or earplugs for when your neighbour is studying late (or partying)
• Emergency toilet roll (again, thank us later)

Make your JACKEY room feel like home

With this checklist in hand, you have everything you need to create a comfortable, practical, and personalised space. Whether you’re settling into a student room in Ghent or starting your year at our student housing in Brussels, JACKEY gives you the best possible start.

Beyond your kot, you’ll enjoy the benefits that set JACKEY apart: modern facilities, 24/7 security, high-speed Wi-Fi, and a close-knit student community. Explore our residences in Ghent (The Root and The Arch) or Brussels (KVS) and book your studentenkamer today.

Want to know more about why students choose JACKEY? Read our 5 reasons to book a room at JACKEY.

Still have questions? Don’t leave your search to chance. Read our complete guide to student housing to master the market and secure your perfect spot.