Yaay! You’re moving to London for school soon! As exciting as this time is, you may be wondering what to pack for moving to UK.

As an international student, your packing list is very important as you don’t want to forget anything and end up having annoying situations at the airport or in London.

So, this post will provide a rundown of everything you need to pack as an international student coming to study in the UK.

Key Takeaways

Pack all documents like passport, visa, and university acceptance letter.

Pack versatile clothing suitable for London's unpredictable weather and ensure you have the necessary electrical gadgets and adapters for UK outlets.
Stock up on toiletries and medical supplies, including any prescription medications.
Don't forget to pack a few personal items to make your new private student accommodation in London feel like home.
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What Documents are Required at the Airport For International Students in the UK?

When you land in the UK, you will be asked for certain documents at the airport to confirm the reason for your arrival in the country.

These documents are required of both visa and non-visa nationals who plan to remain in the country for more than six months.

The documents you would have to present at the airport are:

Passport: Your passport is the primary identification document required for international travel. Ensure it is valid for the duration of your stay in the UK.
Student Visa: If you are coming to the UK for study purposes, you will need a valid student visa. Make sure to carry your visa documents, including the visa vignette in your passport and the accompanying visa letter. You will also need a CAS email printout if your study program will last more than six months.
University Acceptance Letter: It's advisable to have a printed copy of your acceptance letter from the university or institution where you will be studying. This document may be required by immigration officials as proof of your intended purpose of travel.
Evidence of Funds: Immigration officers may ask to see evidence of your financial ability to support yourself during your stay in the UK. This could include bank statements, scholarship letters, or proof of sponsorship.
Accommodation Details: It's helpful to have information about your accommodation arrangements in the UK, such as the address of your university residence or private accommodation. This can demonstrate your planned place of stay while in the country.
Health Insurance: Although not mandatory for entry, having valid health insurance coverage for the duration of your stay in the UK is highly recommended. Carry proof of your health insurance policy for reference if needed.
COVID-19 Documents (if applicable): Due to the ongoing pandemic, additional health-related documents may be required, such as a negative COVID-19 test result or proof of necessary vaccination. Check the latest travel requirements and guidelines for your home country before your departure.

Complete London Packing List for International Students

Here is a complete break down of all the essential items you would need to pack for your move to the UK. You can create a checklist and start ticking things off as you go.

Documents

These are all the documents you may need in your first week at uni. They are:

Passport and visa documents

Acceptance letter from the university
Health insurance documents
Medical certificate
Passport size photos
Bank details
Scholarship letters (if any)
Student ID card
Emergency contact information

Electric Gadgets

Be sure to take all your electronic gadgets as it may be a little inconveniencing to have to get new ones once you land in London. The must haves are:

Laptop or tablet

Smartphone with charger
Power adapters for UK outlets
Ethernets
Game consoles (if needed)
USB memory stick
Headphones or earphones

Clothes

London weather can be unpredictable so it’s important to pack both thick and light pieces you can wear all year round.

Weather-appropriate clothing for all seasons

Formal attire for interviews and presentations
Comfortable shoes for walking around the city
Swimwear and gym clothes for fitness activities
Raincoats
Winter boots
Accessories like scarves and gloves for colder months

Stationery

To be fully prepared for school, pack all the stationery items you think you will need.

Notebooks and pens

Highlighters and markers
Sticky notes and index cards
Stapler and paper clips
Planner or diary for organizing schedules

Toiletries and Med Supplies

Medication may be difficult to get without a doctor’s prescription in London. It’s important to pack your med supplies and toiletries that will last for the duration of your stay.

Toothbrush and toothpaste

Shampoo, conditioner, and body wash
Skincare products and sunscreen
Basic first aid kit with bandages and pain relievers
Prescription medications and copies of prescriptions

Bonus tip:

If you plan to live in a private student accommodation in London, toiletries and kitchen items would be provided for you so you don’t have to pack those. These London student accommodations are equipped with luxury hotel-style amenities for full comfort and they’re perfect for short stays and long stays.

Miscellanous Essentials

Travel-sized laundry detergent
Reusable water bottle
Favorite snacks and non-perishable food items
Travel guidebook or map of London
Photos or mementos from home
Small decorations for personalizing your living space
Portable speaker for social gatherings
Books or e-reader for leisure reading
Travel journal to document your experiences in London

FAQs

How many kgs can a student carry to UK?

This usually depends on the airline. Most airlines have a 23kg allowance for in-flight baggage apart from your carry-on.

What to do after landing in UK as international student?

Contact your private student accommodation London provider for your transportation from the airport to your new home.

How many days prior to starting my studies should I arrive in the UK?

You should arrive in the UK at least one month before your studies begin or the date provided by your institution.

Wrapping Up

When packing for your move to London, ensure your travel documents, visa, school documents, clothes, and other essentials are packed and set for your move.

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Complete International Student Packing List for London