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What to bring and what to leave, that is the
ultimate question. There is only so much room in your suitcase. Some
things you are better off purchasing here, while other items are so
expensive here that you are better off bringing them. Here are some
tips from students in the program.
Most students over pack and bring things that they never end up using. Also remember that you will end up purchasing items here and you must have room to bring them back.
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Clothes
What To Bring
Generally speaking, you will want to bring a lot of layers. The weather can change frequently, with some days being warm and sunny and others being very cold and rainy. It might be hard to "pack light" knowing that you will be in London for the entire semester, but you will find yourself not using half of what you bring and not having enough space to take home all of your souvenirs! Plus, the least amount of clothes that you have to wash the better! You will want to bring items of clothing that can be worn with many different things; for instance plain colored shirts, sweaters, sweatshirts, tank tops, etc. You should also bring along a few dressier items to wear when attending plays/musicals If you are interning, your wardrobe might vary considerably from that of the non-interns. Bring things that suit your normal wardrobe, but that doesn't mean bring everything that you own! Be smart about your packing space. Anything that you end up leaving behind that you honestly think you will die without, you can always buy here. After all, London is quite the developed city!
What To Leave Home
In all honesty, there is no need to bring 10 different pairs of shoes or 4 different jackets. These just take up space, both in your suitcase and in your flat. Keep in mind that most of you will be sharing a flat with more than one person; sometimes up to 6 people will share a living space. In some cases, there just is not enough storage for all of your belongings plus your suitcases. Some of you might want to pack an umbrella, but you can always buy a cheap one here and leave it in the flat to save space for the way home. Often times, students leave some of their belongings behind in the flats for future students to use. Female students should check out the section on appliances!
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Appliances
UK electric service runs on 220V current, while American service is generally 110V. Therefore, your electronic equipment will not work without a power converter. Using power converters on high draw appliances (1500W hair dryers, etc.) is dangerous and often blows a fuse in the flat. It's never fun to start your
hair on fire! You can save a lot of packing space by leaving all of your electrical appliances at home.
Hair dryers
Many students have left their hair dryers, straighteners, etc in the
flats, therefore most flats already have these items. If your particular flat does not have something that you need,
you can either borrow from another flat that has two of that item or
purchase one together with your roommates. These items can be purchased very cheaply in local stores and don't need to have a power converter.
Irons
Less commonly left in the flats but still readily available are clothes irons. Fresh pressed clothes are often required by students doing internships. Again, American models are not suitable for use in the UK. If your flat does not have an iron purchase one locally.
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