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What should international students pack when moving to the UK?

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Packing for the UK as a Malaysian Student (A Checklist)

So you are all set for the UK, but what should you pack? Don’t miss out on this list!

1. Travel Documents

Travel documents are the number one item to remember when moving to the UK as a student.

  • Passport
  • Passport-sized photos
  • CV & references
  • University documents
  • Certificates (high school onwards)
  • Some important phone numbers and addresses, in case you lose your phone
  • A map of UK or the city you are travelling to
  • Room insurance
  • Accommodation contract
  • Tuberculosis test report in case the authorities require it
  • Label your suitcase with your address and phone number
  • CAS
  • Sponsor letter
  • Official financial evidence

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2. Clothing

Some basic clothing items you will need are:

  • Students in the UK tend to live in a pair of jeans, T-shirt, sweatshirt and trainers. This is “standard” student wear.
  • Sport socks are nice and thick and would be ideal to take to the UK. Winter clothing, gloves and scarves are cheaper to buy in the UK than here in Malaysia.
  • Make sure you take some warm clothing with you initially.
  • Flip flops for wearing in showers/communal area.
  • Formal wear may be required for presentations or dinners.
  • If you plan to play any sports, a pair of trainers and some basic sportswear (shorts and a tracksuit) may be useful.
  • Bring a raincoat (or umbrella) for the cold and rainy days.

3. Toiletries

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It is unlikely you will do any shopping immediately when you arrive in the UK. Take a toothbrush, toothpaste, facial cleanser, body shampoo, and hair shampoo to freshen up. However bear in mind there are restrictions to the amount of liquids you can carry on board the aircraft.
For optical needs, don’t forget prescription glasses/spare glasses, or contact lenses plus cleaning fluid. Others may want to remember bringing their braces/retainer accessories.

4. Food

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Your appetite may be affected when you arrive and you might get hungry at the wrong times of the day. Take some instant noodles or instant beverages/cereals with you.
If you’re moving into a self-catered accommodation, carry some basic kitchen cutleries with you such as a cup, sauce pan, plate, spoon, scissors, knife, sandwich bags and plastic bowls.

5. Electronics

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It’s almost a given that you do need a notebook computer with you throughout your studies in the UK. Although universities have computer labs, having a personal notebook computer will help you to study and complete assignments at your own pace and time; not to mention as a source of affordable entertainment away from home!

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Other important electronics include phone chargers and cables, adaptors, extension board, camera (if needed), and power banks (must be carried in cabin luggage).

To be safe, check the list of items you’re allowed or restricted to bring into the UK here: https://www.gov.uk/bringing-goods-into-uk-personal-use

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