Here at New Routes we aim to make the start of student life a whole lot easier. We are run by two former Stellenbosch University students, who have experienced the challenge of the big move from home life to student life. We remember the effort it took for our parents and ourselves, to just set our room up with the basics. The huge task of,
• commuting to multiple stores • hunting for the right products at the best prices • making repeated trips home in one day
It quickly consumed a lot of time and money, especially in the new environment. We realized we could help others solve this problem by designing kits that include all the basic items a student would require in the kitchen, bedroom and bathroom. We also added some fun additional student must-haves kits, that supply the necessary braai supplies and party items students need for an enjoyable time.
Instead of having to go to different stores, calculate what’s cheapest, and take precious time out of your day, we have rolled it all into one smooth service that does it all for you. New Routes is all about turning a week of shopping into nothing more than a 5 minute browse and click.
Founded and run by Isabella & Matthew
Frequently asked questions
What is our return policy?
At New Routes, we want every student and parent to feel confident when shopping our university starter kits in Cape Town and Stellenbosch. We accept returns within 7 days of delivery for items that are unused, unwashed, undamaged, and still in their original packaging.
Please note that for hygiene and safety reasons, certain items such as bedding kits, towels, and other personal care essentials cannot be returned or exchanged once opened.
Customers are responsible for return shipping costs, unless the item arrived damaged, incorrect, or incomplete. If your student starter kit (including bedding, kitchen, bathroom, or combo packs) arrives with any issue, we’ll make it right as quickly as possible.
To start a return or exchange, please email us at smartstartkits@gmail.com with your order number and reason for return. Our team will guide you through the process and ensure your student essentials are handled with care.
For more detailed information, please read our full Refund and Return Policy for New Routes Student Starter Kits.
What is our cancellation policy?
Cancellations made by the customer will incur a 15% administration fee. If the cancellation is made within 7 days of the scheduled delivery date, a 50% cancellation fee will apply.
When will I get my order?
You will receive your New Routes student starter kit on the exact date and within the time slot you select during checkout. Delivery can be scheduled for any day that is at least 7 days after placing your order, giving you the flexibility to choose a time that suits your move-in plans. Whether you’re settling into student accommodation in Cape Town, Stellenbosch, or Somerset West, we ensure your bedding, kitchen, bathroom, or combo kit arrives right when you need it.
Where are your products manufactured?
Our products are manufactured both locally and globally. We carefully select our manufacturing partners to ensure our products are high quality and a fair value.
How much does shipping cost?
Shipping is FREE for customers living within the designated delivery areas in Cape Town and Stellenbosch.
Who do we ship to?
At New Routes, we proudly deliver our student starter kits, university essentials, and first-year room setup packs to students across Cape Town, Stellenbosch, and Somerset West. Our goal is to make it easy for you to receive your bedding kits, kitchen essentials, bathroom packs, party kits, and braai kits right at your student accommodation or home.
We currently offer free delivery to the following areas:
To check if your address qualifies for free delivery of your student starter kit, simply enter your postal code in the designated field during checkout. If free delivery is not available in your area, please contact us — our team will gladly help you arrange an alternative delivery option for your university essentials or student room setup kit.
Will the product I receive look exactly like the pictures?
At New Routes, we strive to ensure that the student starter kits and university essentials you receive match the images shown on our website as closely as possible. In rare cases, due to stock availability, we may need to provide a similar item as a replacement. If this occurs, we will always notify you beforehand to confirm that the replacement is acceptable, ensuring you are completely satisfied with your order.
Note: Some product cover images are AI-generated for illustration. All kit contents are shown using real, authentic photos.
