What to pack

If you are travelling to the UK to start your studies, there are some essential things you should bring in your hand luggage:

• Your passport, including the vignette (visa sticker) for your arrival (if applicable)
• A printed copy of your visa decision letter
• A printed copy of your University offer letter and CAS
• A printed copy of information about your accommodation, which covers the duration of your stay
• A printed copy of information about the finances available to you in the UK
• A printed copy of your Tuberculosis (TB) certificate, if applicable

You may want to keep copies of these documents on your phone too, as a backup. Make sure they are protected by a password or PIN so only you can access them. Printed copies are important in case anything happens to your phone/laptop.

If you need to bring prescribed medication with you, bring a translated copy of the doctor's note with you.

You should also think about bringing some emergency items in case your check-in luggage is delayed or lost, such as a change of clothes, a toothbrush, a battery pack, and small toiletries.

• Tea, coffee and extra mugs and snacks - tea and a biscuits is a fast way to make friends.
• Phone - don't forget your charger, and a plug adaptor if you need one.
• Pins - most rooms will have notice boards, and they always sell out on campus during Welcome! Check with your accommodation to find out if you can use Blu-Tac on the walls.
• Something to make your room feel homely - whether it is photos, posters, your favourite cushion or something else, little bits and pieces can help you feel at home.
• Post-it notes or a mini whiteboard - so you can leave messages for your flatmates. Let them know what you are up to or write something to make them smile.

• A kettle, toaster and iron - check your inventory to see if these are provided for you. You might want to wait and get these with your flatmates, so you don't end up with five of everything!
• Pans, kitchen utensils, plates and cutlery - again check what is already provided for you; how much you bring might depend on whether you are mainly cooking for yourself or will be on Meal Plan. Second hand items are more sustainable, and different patterns will help you know what's yours!
• Washing-up liquid, tea towels and bin liners - don't be the flatmate who's known for leaving a pile of washing up! You might find it easier to buy these when you arrive.
• Washing powder and a laundry bag - remember space in your room will be limited, so you might not want a bulky laundry basket. You can use our Accommodation App to check if a machine is available or if your laundry has finished.
• Toiletries and a first aid kit - you may want to include some basic painkillers and medicines.
• Face mask and hand sanitiser - be prepared when you are out and about on campus and in the local area.
• A bag or rucksack to carry books and stationery on campus - and a sports bag if you plan on going to the gym.
• Music, films and books - you'll want some time to relax. Headphones might be a good idea to avoid annoying your flatmates with loud music!
• Blankets - your accommodation may be warmer or colder than you are used to at home, so layers are key.
• Coat hangers - these are easy to forget.
• Alarm clock - relying on your phone might not be the best idea!
• Shaver plug adaptor - if you have an electric shaver or toothbrush you might need a two-pin adaptor for a normal plug socket. Check with your accommodation.
• A water bottle and reusable cup - save money and plastic waste by taking water with you. Many buildings on campus have water fountains (and hot water points for tea and coffee) to fill up for free and tap water in the UK is safe to drink. You might also get a discount if you buy a coffee using your own cup!
• Lunchbox - if you're self-catering, you might also find a lunchbox useful for taking lunch with you. Some study spaces, including the Aston Webb Student Hub and Alan Walters Building, have microwaves for you to use.
• 16-25 Railcard - the University has its own train station and many students use trains to get into the city centre, or to travel home, so this can be a great way to save money. Full-time students over the age of 25 are also eligible.
• TV Licence - if you want to watch or record live TV programmes on any channel, or download or watch BBC iPlayer programmes, you will need to be covered by a TV Licence. This includes watching TV on your phone, tablet, computer or games console. Make sure you understand the rules around TV Licences and whether you will need one.
• Plug adaptors - if you are bringing electrical appliances from abroad make sure you have plug adaptors to fit the British three-pin sockets.
• Warm clothes, a coat, and an umbrella - the Great British weather can get wet and windy very quickly. Snow is also possible during the winter months.

• Your laptop - if you plan to use one, and don't forget to bring any chargers or cables. There is Wi-Fi access in all University-owned accommodation. Remember you can download Microsoft Office 365 for free on up to five devices.
• A study lamp and desk accessories - as the nights get darker you might like having a lamp for your desk, and an organised desk will help you feel prepared for studying.
• Paper, folders and notebooks - you'll need to provide your own stationery, so decide what works best for you. You might find it cheaper to buy these in bulk before you start, particularly folders.
• Scissors and sellotape - it's surprising how often you'll end up using these!
• Spare pens - these always seem to disappear, so lots of spare pens are a must.
• Printer - some students prefer having their own printer, whilst others prefer to use printers on campus. Remember to factor in the cost of ink cartridges.
• USB memory stick or access to a cloud service - to back up important assignments and transfer work from home to campus.

• There are strict rules about what you can bring from overseas. See our information on arriving in the UK.
• Your car - there is limited parking available both at student accommodation and on campus, and you will need a permit.
• Pets - these aren't allowed, so leave the hamster at home!
• Large amounts of cash - bring enough for your initial costs, but avoid carrying large amounts of cash. If you are an international student, you may want to bring travellers' cheques or a prepaid travel card to cover you until you are able to open a bank account.
• Large electrical items and furniture - they can take up valuable space in your luggage and you will be able to source these locally or for delivery once you have arrived and know what you need.
• Bulky suitcases - these can be difficult to store, you might find a soft-sided holdall or laundry bags easier to put under your bed.
• Too much! - remember that space in your accommodation will be limited, so do not bring everything you own. There are plenty of shops in the local area and the city centre to pick up anything you need or anything you have forgotten, and your flatmates will be bringing things too.