One of the biggest realizations I had when I came to college was that my stomach wouldn’t be full and my ailments would not go away unless I did something about it myself. My mini fridge had to be stocked and restocked by me. My upset stomach had to be remedied (and re-remedied) by me.

When there are no parents, grandparents, aunts or uncles to lend a hand, it’s important to know where to get the things you need – before you need them.

Below is a list of some prime, errand-running locations. Groceries, pharmacies and everything in between, this list has you covered.

For students on campus without a car, the quickest way to get what you need will be to go to the stores located within walking distance of the campus. 

Walgreens on Green Street

Walgreens may be consistently overpriced, but the location really can’t be beaten.

Located in the heart of Campustown, wherever you are, Walgreens is always a short walk away. If you only need to pick up one or two items, this is the spot for those quick, in-and-out errands. 

County Market on Stoughton Street

County Market is a fully stocked grocery store complete with fresh produce, meat, fish, salad and more. County Market offers a much wider variety of food than Walgreens, but it is located a couple blocks away from the heart of campus. Unfortunately, being the closest full grocery store to campus, you may find yourself spending more than you normally would on groceries. 

McKinley Health Center

Headaches, fevers, cuts and scrapes; McKinley can help take care of them all. McKinley is close to many residence halls, and different buses can take you close by as well. Aside from regular doctor appointments, McKinley offers students free bandages, throat lozenges, Ibuprofen and Tylenol.

Many of McKinley’s free items, such as cold packs given out during flu season, can also be picked up in the basement of the Illini Union, near the food court.

Harvest Market

Organic, vegetarian, vegan and gluten free fare can all be found in surplus at Harvest Market. This store is perfect for anyone who follows a special diet. The store can be a bit confusing to navigate, but the variety of healthy food offerings just can’t be beaten. Look here for great produce, locally roasted coffee beans and butter churned in the grocery store. The bakery also makes fresh bread and desserts daily, perfect for a little treat for the bus ride back. 

A 20-minute ride on the 1 Yellow will get you to Harvest Market. 

Aldi

This store is the go-to destination for bargain groceries. Aldi prides itself on providing wholesome food at an affordable price. Remember to bring a quarter to use one of the shopping carts and bring your own reusable shopping bags, especially if you are carrying your groceries back on the bus. Unfortunately, it takes about 35 minutes to commute to Aldi using Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District buses, but the savings can be worth it.

Hannah is a junior in LAS.
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