Enrolling in university is an opportunity to gain an incredible education, experience new things, and make lifelong friends. But before your adventure awaits, there’s one looming task – packing for university.
Knowing what to pack is tricky…
Pack too much and you could be weighed down with heavy bags throughout Uber rides and train stations, but pack too little and you could forget crucial items that may be expensive and difficult to replace.
Well, don’t worry. Help is on hand. In this blog, we’ll dive into everything students should pack to start their university journey with confidence!
Must-have documentation
Your paperwork will be one of your most important items when travelling to uni. Before you pack anything, make sure you have your passport or a valid piece of ID. For international students, make sure you bring your UK Student Visa. It’s probably best to keep these in your carry-on, not in checked luggage, in case you’re asked to show them at immigration.
Also, remember your university acceptance letter (often called your CAS letter), which provides proof of finances, and any accommodation booking confirmations.
A pro tip is to make copies of all your key documents – both physical and digital – so you’re prepared in case anything gets lost.
Clothes and shoes
UK weather is notoriously unpredictable. If you are heading further north, you may experience more cold and rain (and even snow). You may also be walking a lot to explore your new city, so make sure to pack sensibly. You’ll need a warm coat for the winter, plenty of layers, a rain jacket, some trainers, and comfortable, waterproof shoes. But the UK can get uncomfortably warm during the summer months.
While it’s tempting to pack your entire wardrobe, storage space in student accommodation can be limited. Do aim for capsule, versatile pieces that you can layer, and save room for new clothes that you may purchase on arrival.
If you’re heading to any formal events like university dinners or presentations, it’s a good idea to bring at least one smart outfit. Overall, the student dress code is pretty relaxed and casual.r, letting you pay rent monthly like everyone else.
Your new home
A few familiar items can make all the difference when moving so far away from home. It’s important to make your new space feel like a home, too.
Bring a few small personal items like photos of family and friends, a favourite cushion or blanket, and some lightweight decorations (which you can also purchase when you move in). These can make your room feel more like your own, especially if you’re feeling homesick.
You may also want to set up your study space to be conducive to how you work best. So, perhaps a desk lamp, stationery, or planners and organisers for your private study time..
Cooking and kitchen essentials
If you’re moving into self-catered accommodation, you’ll likely need some basic kitchen supplies.
- A plate, bowl, mug, and cutlery set
- A small pan and frying pan
- A reusable water bottle
- A few airtight containers for leftovers
Don’t go overboard! A few essentials are plenty, and you can always buy additional items later if you find you need them. And remember, many shared accommodations already provide some appliances and ‘starter packs’, so do check with your housing provider first.
Technology & devices
Your laptop will be your lifeline whilst away at university. You’ll be using it for lectures, assignments, as well as keeping in touch with life back home. Don’t forget to pack your charger, and consider an extension lead or an adapter. Student accommodation can often have limited power sockets.
Other handy items include a portable hard drive or USB to back up your work, and a good pair of headphones if you’re sharing accommodation and need quiet study time.
Money
It’s a good idea to bring a small amount of cash with you for your first few days, especially if you are moving to the UK for the first time and need to set up a bank account. Before you set off, let your bank know you’re travelling so your cards aren’t blocked. Many international students open a UK bank account upon arrival, which makes managing money and paying rent much simpler.
At Housing Hand, we make renting even easier for international students by offering flexible payment methods for our guarantor service like Alipay, WeChat Pay, Revolut, and card payments in Euros for Irish tenancies.
Need help with a guarantor application? Get in touch today.
