What do I bring?

We recommend that you pack lightly and buy the provisions here as they become necessary. You can buy most things here.

Electrical Equipment

If you bring electrical appliances with you, please remember that the electrical supply in the UK works on 250 volts, 50Hz and sockets take three pin (square) plugs. You will need to supply your own adaptor or transformer for expensive items such as laptops. These are widely available at airports, as well as supermarkets and other shops in the UK.

Proper Clothing and the Right Shoes

Fashion in the UK tends to be quite informal, so unless you plan to attend any weddings or very formal functions, leave the super nice stuff at home. British weather can be a little cooler and wetter than what you are used to. Autumn and Spring can be mild, but it does tend to rain a lot. Winter (November to February) can be bitterly cold. Bring lots of layers and a warm jacket. A raincoat is also useful as is an umbrella, but you can always buy a cheap umbrella in the UK.

Taking Care of Your Luggage

Please ensure all your luggage is clearly labeled with your name and your address. Check the baggage allowance of the airline you are travelling with. If your luggage exceeds the baggage allowance, it may be cheaper to ship your luggage by air or sea. Make sure you choose a reputable company and insure your goods against loss or damage.

If you send your personal possessions ahead, please ask the Post Office or shipping agent for a Customs Declaration form. Make it clear on the form that the goods are for personal use only and that you are a full-time student in the UK.

Insurance

Take out a travel insurance policy to cover you for your journey to the UK and for a few days after arrival. This should cover any loss or damage of personal property as well as any medical costs.

What not to bring

Try not to bring too much stuff with you - the general rule when packing is to pack everything you think you will need, and then take half out. You can always buy essentials in the UK if you need to. Remember that you will have to carry your luggage yourself and make your own way from the airport to your accommodation - this could involve buses and trains.

What to bring on the plane

You will need the following documents on your journey to the UK, so don't pack them in your luggage!

• Letter of unconditional acceptance
• Documentary evidence that you have enough money to pay your fees and
• support yourself while studying (e.g. recent bank statements, proof of scholarship, letter of financial support from family member). Please check in the Tier 4 Policy Guide for further information
• Round-trip airline ticket
• Address and telephone number of your final destination
• Insurance documents
• A valid passport that will not expire during your stay in the UK

Additionally be sure to:

• Buy travel insurance and/or medical insurance
• Check your baggage allowance for maximum allowance.
• If you are currently using medication of any kind obtain a letter of explanation from your doctor and an ample supply of the medication.
• Purchase a student identification card (ISIC card).
• At least four passport-sized photographs of yourself.
• Label your entire luggage with your name and address in the UK.

Make a list of what you have packed in each item of your main luggage in case you need to make an insurance claim.