So, you’ve packed your bags and are prepping to wave goodbye to your mum and dad. The next step will likely be moving into your halls of residence or some sort of shared uni accommodation. And this will be your first true introduction to the wild ride that is university life!
But let’s be real for a second — between late-night parties, dodgy mattresses, and that one flatmate who never shuts up, getting a decent night’s sleep in halls can feel like trying to find a quiet spot in the middle of a Freshers’ Week rave.
Don’t worry, though — we’ve got your back. Here’s how to get some proper kip in halls without losing your mind (or your sleep).
1. tame the noise
Halls can be noisy. Whether it’s someone blasting tunes at 3 AM or a random fire alarm drill just as you’ve drifted off, the noise levels are anything but predictable.
This is where earplugs will fast become your best mates. While earplugs may not be able to block out everything, they can definitely take the edge off.
If earplugs aren’t your thing – and trust us, we get that they can be uncomfy to wear as you try to fall asleep – a white noise app on your phone could be a better alternative. Allow the gentle hum to drown out the chaos of halls life and help you drift off to sleep.
2. make things super cosy
Halls rooms are hardly the Ritz. But, with a little bit of effort you can make your space feel more a lot more homely.
So, invest in a good set of bedding (trust us, it’s worth it). And maybe treat yourself to a comfy pillow or two and a new duvet. And if you’re not buying a new mattress for uni, we’d definitely recommend taking a mattress protector with you. Who knows how many people have slept on that hall of residence-issued mattress before you? And, who knows how well (if at all) it’s been cleaned in between its new inhabitants?
Fairy lights are a great way to add a bit of warmth to your uni bedroom affordably too. Anything you can do to make your room feel less like a prison cell and more like your own little sanctuary is a plus in our books. The goal is to make your bed the comfiest place in the world — somewhere you actually look forward to crashing out in at the end of a long day of uni lectures and life.
3. set a sleep schedule (and stick to it!)
Yes, uni life is all about spontaneity. But for those who are keen to actually survive the term, structure — especially when it comes to sleep — will be essential.
Good sleep hygiene is super important for productivity and mental and physical wellbeing. So, you should try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day.
It may sound boring, but your brain and body will thank you. Plus, you’ll be less likely to dose off in lectures if you’re well-rested.
4. wind down before bed
After a long day of lectures, socialising, and maybe a cheeky pint or two at the pub, switching off can be tricky. But scrolling through TikTok until 2 AM isn’t doing your sleep any favours.
Instead, try to develop a pre-bedtime routine. It doesn’t have to be overly complex either. Something as simple as reading a book, listening to some chill music, or doing a bit of meditation is enough to help your mind and body prepare for a good night’s sleep. Routines help to signal to your brain that it’s time to wind down and get ready for bed.
5. mind what you eat and drink
Late-night kebabs and energy drinks may be a staple of life at uni, but they’re not exactly conducive to good sleep.
Try to avoid heavy meals, caffeine, and sugary snacks too close to bedtime. If you’re feeling peckish late at night, go for something light and easy to digest — like a banana or a slice of toast.
And while it’s definitely going to be tempting to down a few pints before bed, remember that alcohol can seriously mess with your sleep cycle. Ditch the booze right before bed if you don’t want to wake up feeling groggy the next day.
6. get a handle on stress
Uni can be stressful — what with deadlines, exams, and the inevitable, occasional social drama.
But if you’re lying awake at night worrying about that essay you haven’t started yet, you’re not going to get much sleep. Try to keep your stress in check by staying organised, talking things out with friends or a uni counsellor, and taking regular breaks.
Getting a bit of exercise during the day can also help to burn off that nervous energy and make sleep come easier at night time.
7. talk to your flatmates
Living with a bunch of strangers can be an adjustment, especially when it comes to sleep. If your flatmates are keeping you up with late-night noise, it’s worth having a chat.
You don’t have to be a killjoy. But setting some basic ground rules (like keeping the volume down after a certain time) can make a world of difference. After all, they need their sleep too!
life at uni: final thoughts
Sleeping in halls of residence isn’t always easy, but it’s definitely doable.
With a little bit of planning and a few minor adjustments, you can create a sleep-friendly space that helps you get the rest you need.
So, here’s to a term full of great memories — and some solid nights of sleep to keep you going. Until next time, eve sleep.
