Would you ever stay in a Bunkabin while at university?
An alternative to student accommodation? Source: Shutterstock

On the outside, a Bunkabin unit may not look all that appealing. But by acting as a portable alternative to traditional student accommodation, containing a cosy interior, many international students are researching the benefits of these digs.

A few years ago, Bunkabins solved student accommodation shortages across many UK universities.

As the Director of Bunkabin, Luke Rothwell, once said, “We have helped many HEIs to react quickly and make sure they have the right accommodation available for students, even at incredibly short notice. We have provided units to universities affected by fire or struggling with a massive jump in intake numbers; we understand how quickly problems can arise and we know how to solve them as quickly as possible.”

But what exactly do these units offer?

Junior Deluxe Sleeper

En-suite bathroom – the majority of plumbing is hidden to improve the unit’s appearance.

Shower – large shower cubicle (750mm x 1000mm).

Furniture – high-level shelving, clothes rails and corner television unit.

Beds – available with one, two or three full-size single beds with mattresses, including over-bed lights.

Heating – thermostatically-controlled environment heated by tubular heaters.

Deluxe Sleeper

En-suite bathroom – heated towel rail, humidistat fan and a large mounted mirror.

Shower – large shower cubicle (750mm x 1000mm).

Furniture – walnut look furniture with a fitted 2 tier wardrobe including a large boot looker and fitted shelves.

Appliances – built-in microwave oven (25 litres) and full size built in Fridge (133 litres).

Beds – one or two full-size single beds with mattresses are available with individual over-bed lights.

Bespoke Sleeper

En-suite bathroom – dual flushing toilet, large hand basin, vanity unit, heated towel rail, humidistat fan and a mirror.

Shower – large, powerful shower cubicle (750mm x 1000mm), stable and has a mains-fed shower with temperature control.

Furniture – walnut-look furniture, large desk area with two drawer packs, armchair, second full-size single bed.

Beds – one (or two) full-size single beds with mattress and individual over-bed LED lights.

Not just available for student accommodation purposes, Bunkabins also offer space for work sites, entertainment events and permanent living facilities.

Despite their deluxe facilities and luxurious add-ons, there has been a great deal of speculation surrounding their price.

Five months ago at the University of Cambridge, it was reported that the Murray Edwards College accommodation provider had moved students into “insufficient temporary accommodation in the midst of renovation works to a single staircase.”

This alternative accommodation turned out to be a Bunkabin. Students were being charged £1,375 to stay for one term in the portable deluxe sleeper.

Of course, the price of a Bunkabin alternative will vary from university to university, but for international students who have already spent so much on flights, tuition fees and other expenses, the cost of £1,375 may be unmanageable, especially since the average price for student accommodation in the UK is £535.

Despite the difference in cost, the Bunkabin is an efficient alternative with a number of valuable resources.

Complete with appealing amenities such as a heated towel rack and a spacious shower cubicle, it’s easy to see why some students opt for them, but would you?

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