Packing for university can be one of the hardest parts before traveling. Many times, you might not even know what to take or what you will need, so you end up packing unnecessary things and forgetting some more important ones. One of the best things to do in order to make sure you have the essentials to get you started is by writing down a checklist.This will help you to double-check everything you need and even help you to remember things that are missing in your list. There are many packing lists and templates that you can use as a guide but these are some of the essentials.
Bedding
Duvet, duvet cover, sheets, mattress protector, pillows, and pillowcases. Depending on how much luggage space you have, you might decide to take some from home or buy them in the UK. You also have the option to purchase a bedding pack online before your arrival or you can go shopping after you arrive in any convenience store close to your accommodation. If you secure a room at International Students House, there is a basic bedding package included in your rates so you don’t have to worry too much about this.
Cutlery and Utensils
Pans, cutlery, mugs, plates; whether you’re bringing some from home or purchasing them on arrival, having some cutlery is high on the list of essentials. While most accomodation halls offer catering services, it’s also important that you’re able to make a cup of tea or home-made meal from time to time. If you have a favourite mug or plate, make space for it in your bags so you can have that piece of home and comfort wherever you are.
Toiletries
Shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, towels, hair brush, toilet rolls, skin care products, deodorant, and perfume. To save on luggage space, just carry some travel size toiletries in your carry-on and then purchase more items once you’ve settled into your accommodation. There are certain products that you may not be able to find in the UK that you should definitely bring with you but shops such as Boots, Savers and Superdrug are the go-to for most.
Clothes
The weather in the UK is very unpredictable. However, one thing to have in mind is that no matter the season it will rain, so make sure you pack a raincoat and a few jackets for both summer and winter. Hoodies are always recommended to stay warm and protected from unexpected rain. If you come from tropical or hot weather regions and do not have any winter clothes, don’t worry, there are many places to buy coats and jackets at student friendly prices.
Look out for discounts on clothes and other essentials on Unidays and use your student ID to get discounts in shops. As a student you will walk a lot, so make sure you invest in some comfortable shoes, a warm pair of boots for winter and a few pairs of trainers.
Electrical items
Laptop, phone, earphones, camera, hair dryer, socket adaptor, chargers, and cables. Make sure you remember to pack the chargers and cables, there’s nothing worse than arriving at your accommodation with a low battery just to find out that you forgot your charger. Check the voltages from your country as some countries such as the United States have a lower voltage than the UK (US 110V- UK 220V). If that is the case you will need a voltage adapter otherwise the difference can damage your devices.
Umbrella
No matter where you are in the UK or what season it is, always have an umbrella. We recommend keeping your umbrella in your hand luggage while traveling as you might need it once you arrive.
Home comforts
You will spend a lot of time in your room so it is always nice to have some pictures of your friends and family to make it feel more like home. Bring some snacks from your country for when you start missing your home and the food, as it might be very difficult to get your favorite snacks in the UK. Even some things that you might be able to find in your country and in the UK can taste different.
Medicine
Make sure you bring any medicine you might need for at least the first two months as you can never know how easy it will be to get your medication in the UK. Also, make sure you check if your medication is available in the UK and if you need a prescription to buy it or not so you can ask your doctor at home for any alternative medication or documents you might need.
Documents
Passport, university documents, exam certificate, bank account details, accommodation contract, and Tuberculosis test report (if you come from any of the countries that require it).
Keep all your documents together, safe and somewhere easy to reach make sure you have everything you need before leaving for the airport because you really don’t want to miss a flight because of one document or the other.
Depending on how much luggage you are traveling with, you might decide to buy some things in the UK or take them with you from home. Whatever you choose, make your own checklist according to your personal needs based on the essentials previously mentioned. You can also use more than one packing list to help you write down your own so you are sure you have covered everything you need to take with you. Create your packing list in advance so you can continue to add things to it.
Good luck!
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