How to Master the Freshers Fair: Uni's Freebie Hotspot
New to uni and on the hunt for some banging freebies? Here’s how to turn your freshers fair visit into an awesome mini adventure. Think plenty of snacks, swag, and helpful information you’ll need for the rest of your student life.
What’s a Freshers Fair Anyway?
If life at uni was a video game, the freshers fair would take the place of your free ‘starter pack’. It’s an annual event for first year students that’s usually held during the first week of term at most UK universities. It’s the place to go to meet societies, local businesses, and university services. Plenty of well known brands attend, and will tempt you their way with freebies.
We’re talking cool tote bags, vouchers, snacks, and even slices of pizza (true story, I once managed to grab 4 slices in a day after doing laps of a freshers fair in Nottingham).
The freshers fair can also be the perfect intro to campus culture, ideal for international students that have just arrived and those commuting in from outside the city.
Tip 1: Arrive Early, Score Big
The golden rule of any freshers fair is that the early bird grabs the best free stuff.
Brands will often arrive with limited stock, so if you want to secure a reusable cup or some pens for your next study session, then get there when doors open. Bring a decent sized bag to fit it all in, and wear comfy clothes. You’ll be navigating heavy crowds and be on your feet for hours while collection samples and juggling leaflets.
Tip 2: Head in as a Team
The best part of the freshers fair? It’s a place full of social buzz.
You’ll meet students from all walks of life and find new coursemates you haven’t had the chance to speak to yet. Who knows? You might even meet your new best friend at the badminton society stand.
The key thing is to not be shy, as people what stalls have the best freebies, swap tips for which societies to join, and take plenty of selfies with those random inflatables that brands love to hand out.
Pro Tip: Join your uni’s freshers Facebook pages or WhatsApp chats ahead of time. People can often plan group meet ups before heading in together.
Tip 3: Say Yes to (Almost) Everything
Free gym trials. Salsa dancing classes. The cheese society social, and even beekeeping tasters. You’ll come across it all at a freshers fair, and you really should sign up to anything that sparks your curiosity.
You won’t be tied in forever, as societies and brands know that freshers want to try a bit of everything during those early days as a student. Usually, they’ll just need your name and email address to make sure you’re invited to any taster events later in the week.
Oh, and don’t forget to visit the student support stalls. From mental health to financial advice, these teams are gold and can make your whole year easier.
Want more on starting uni strong? Check out what to expect from Freshers Week.
Tip 4: Fuel Up (Don’t Just Survive on Sweets)
There’ll be loads of sugary treats on offer, but keep an eye out for actual meal vouchers or samples too. Plenty of local restaurants and takeaways turn up with free tasters or vouchers you can use on your way home. If you’re lucky brands such as Dominos and Nando’s will be on hand to fuel your fun.
Don’t skip breakfast though. The last thing you want is to faint in front of the student radio crew while clutching an energy drink and five bags of gummy bears.
Tip 5: Ask Questions
It’s easy to get caught up in the rush, but don’t just take the flyer, chat to the humans behind the tables.
Speak to the upper brass of the societies you want to join about what their events are like. Find out how much time certain commitments will take from your day, and explore any volunteering opportunities on offer. Freshers fair isn’t just about free things. It’s your chance to shape the early weeks of student life.
For commuter students, the event can help you discover where you’ll find groups you can work around your schedule. Don’t assume anything’s “not for you” just because you’re not living on campus.
Tip 6: Look Beyond Campus
Many Freshers Fairs invite local cafes, gyms, and co-working spots. These are great if you’re living off campus or just want to explore your new city.
Thinking of studying in the UK next year? Discover everything cities across the country have to offer students, from electric nightlife vibes to peaceful days in the countryside.
Don’t ignore that random charity bargain you know you could sell for more. You never know what side hustle you’ll end up loving.
Tip 7: Share the Love
Snagged something cool? Post it. Found a weird new society? Tag them.
Whether it’s a haul snap on Instagram, a cheeky TikTok vlog, or a story showing your overflowing bag of goodies, Freshers Fair content gets major engagement. Plus, it helps other students find the best bits they may have missed.
Bonus: Home for Students is Coming to You!
We’ll be hitting up freshers fairs all over the UK this autumn, including Liverpool John Moore’s University later this week!
Swing by the Homes for Students stall for:
- Freebies worth queuing for.
- Advice on student accommodation options in your city.
- Answers to some of your most pressing student life queries.
Ask us plenty of questions, we’ve all been in the same place as you.
Ready to Make Uni Unforgettable?
The freshers fair is more than a day of free snacks, it’s your launchpad into the rest of freshers week and beyond! Whether you’re on the hunt for adventure or just scoping things out, there’s something for every personality.
Take your time to say hello, and tour the fair with your new flatmates. Sign up to activities you never thought you would, and remember to craft your student journey in the way you want to.
Got a freshers fair tip for us? Let us know when you see us in the next few weeks. We can’t wait to get started.