University life can be hectic, especially if it’s your first time away from home. Sure, the cafeteria and take-out are quick and convenient, but you can’t survive on mystery meat and instant noodles. Cooking for yourself is healthier, more affordable, and will help keep that overworked brain as sharp as a knife. It also can be a nice change of pace during a busy day. We’ve got some great ideas for kitchen gadgets that will save you space, time and help you avoid cramming too much junk food while cramming for exams.

Mini-Fridge with Style

If you’re living in a residence without a kitchen, a mini-fridge is essential for keeping healthy meals and snacks on-hand. Some campuses allow you to rent one for the year, but if you don’t have that option, why not get a mini-fridge with style? This RCA Retro 3.2cuft fridge has personality and practicality.

Space-Saving Water Pitcher

Hydration is key to staying healthy, so pop a Brita Space Saver Pitcher in that mini-fridge to have great tasting cold water on-hand for whenever you need it. Here’s a What’s the Green Deal? bonus fact: one Brita filter can replace 300 standard plastic water bottles!

Compact Coffee Maker

Now that you’ve got hydration covered, we know you’ll be needing some caffeine for those late-night study sessions and early mornings. Instead of spending all your money at the local café, you can make delicious coffee in your room, and take it on-the-go (bonus points for using a reusable coffee mug!). The Cuisinart 4-Cup Coffee Maker takes up very little counter space and is easy to store. Perfect for your tiny kitchen – or improvised kitchen.

Multitasking Multi Pot

Unfortunately, not all residences allow in-room coffee makers, so you might need to be a little more creative. Some might say a kettle, but an even more versatile option to consider is the Salton Multi Pot -1L. It can boil water, and cook your favourite dishes like pasta, soups, rice and more. Use it to boil water, then you can use the Bodum Brazil French Press to make your coffee. Or if you’re late for class, the Bodum Travel Coffee Press serves as both a French press and travel mug, for that dash to class.

Induction Cooktop

You won’t always have time to cook, but when you do, you can make the most of it with the right appliances. If your place doesn’t have a stove but does have a counter, the Salton Double Induction Cooktop will transform your bite-size kitchen into the hippest little eatery on the block. (Again, be sure to get permission as not all residences allow cooktops in rooms).

8-in-1 Multicooker

Can’t have a cooktop? A multi-cooker pot can give you a ton of options for cooking in your little home. With the Crock Pot Express 8-in-1 multicooker, you can whip up soups, stews, chilli, rice, steamed vegetables, mac & cheese, pulled pork, oatmeal, fruit cobbler, butter chicken, enchiladas – even cheesecake! With one of these on your counter, you’ll be the Gordon Ramsay of your floor.

Handy Blender & Dicer

Another multi-tasking must-have for a small space is the Magic Bullet. This little wonder gadget can chop, mix, blend, whip, grind, and more- all in just 10 seconds or less. You’ll be able to put together the fastest, tastiest meals ever, as well as super quick and healthy smoothies for quick breakfasts and impromptu study sessions with friends. Another specialized dicer is the Farberware Pro Rice’n’Slice. This handy tool spares you from having cauliflower pieces all over your dorm while dicing cauliflower rice. Its convenient function allows for quick and easy dicing of veggies, and it doesn’t need electricity in case there is no plug within reach.

Healthy Popcorn Popper

Speaking of studying, you’re going to need snacks. And lots of them. Instead of reaching for the aforementioned chips, make sure to stock your room with healthy snacks that you won’t regret eating while you’re nose is in a textbook. Popcorn is a fun study food, but packaged microwave popcorn can be full of fat and oil, so keep it light with the FlavorQuik Microwave Popcorn Popper. Its unique shape uses steam heat instead of oil or butter to give you a healthier snack in just minutes, and it’s collapsible, so it’s easy to store.

Mistake-Proof Cooking Thermometer

Never cooked before? Fret not! The Accutemp Instant read thermometer will ensure your food is always cooked just right. Its digital interface and fold-up design make it simple and compact, taking the guesswork out of cooking.

As you prepare to tackle another year of hard work, great friends and fun adventures, hopefully these kitchen gadgets will make busy campus life a breeze.