Top Tips for Students Going Home for Christmas

Last updated: January 2026

With the end of the year fast approaching and the festive season practically here, many of you will already have your eyes firmly fixed on heading home to enjoy the holidays.  

But, with packing, travelling, and buying gifts on your mind, it’s easy to let the boring stuff slip. Follow our top tips for students going home for Christmas so you’ve got everything covered, can leave your house empty without the stress, and actually enjoy your break.

Tips for students going home for Christmas

1. Turn down the heat

If everyone you live with is going home for Christmas, you don’t want to be wasting energy keeping an empty house warm. But you definitely don’t want to risk freezing pipes either. So, set your boiler to its FROST setting, and if it doesn’t have one, adjust the temperature to around 10–16°C. Sorted.

2. Don’t overpack

It’s so easy to cram your suitcase with things you think you’ll need. But, trust us – you’re only going home for a few weeks. How many outfits, tops, jeans, jackets and coats do you really need? Plus, you’re bound to come back with a few extra gifts, so just remember, the more you take with you, the more you’ll need to bring back. 

3. Empty your fridge

Trust us, the last thing you need when you get back to uni from a lovely Christmas break is a foul smell of mouldy food. As part of your cleaning rota, make sure you empty the fridge and the bin completely. Alternatively, if any of your housemates are staying at uni over Christmas, check if they want to use up anything before you chuck it. 

4. Unplug your devices

While you’re away, don’t leave anything on standby. Electronics are sneaky energy vampires when left plugged in. So, if you’ve got smart TVs, devices, or consoles, make sure you turn them all off at the plug. Just double-check you leave the fridge and freezer running!

5. Lock up your home!

Sounds simple, but when you’re rushing for a train, it’s an easy one to overlook. Lock all windows and doors (front, back and bedrooms). This is the easiest way to access the property, so it’s also the easiest way to protect it. 

6. And remember, the last one out turns the lights off 

Don’t leave your lights on, wasting energy on an empty room. Make sure the last one out turns them off – you’ll be doing your utility bills and budget a massive favour.

7. Enjoy the festivities!

You deserve a well-earned break! Dish out your Christmas gifts, make the most of your time at home, and enjoy the holidays knowing everything back at uni is sorted.

For more student tips, discover how to manage utility bills in your student house.