What to bring

Packed suitcase

Once you've planned your route to the UK it's time to pack!

Since you are making your way to your new home you will likely be flying solo and will want your journey to be as stress-free as possible. To help you make sure you have all the essentials you need to make your way over to the UK, we have put together a helpful checklist.

What to bring checklist

Remember, you'll need some things to hand so it's best to keep those in your hand luggage. For example, you'll need some documents ready when you reach border control and if you're travelling a long way you'll want a few items on board to keep you comfortable.

In your hold luggage, as well as your clothes and toiletries, there are a few things we recommend you bring with you. Please be assured that you can buy everything you need in the UK, so don't worry about bringing everything you own!

1. Your offer letter from Leeds Beckett University

You'll need to have your offer letter with you when passing through customs as you may be asked by an immigration officer to prove you are coming here to study. For this reason we advise you keep it in your hand luggage with your other important documents.

2. Evidence of any funding

You'll need to bring evidence of any funding that will cover your course tuition fees and living costs (a sponsor letter, for example). A check is made when you pass through customs so they are sure you have the funds to support yourself in the UK.

3. Your passport with your 90-day visa

When travelling between different countries, a passport is required to gain access and cross the country's borders. But you will also need to make sure you have your 90-day visa.

4. An international bank card

When travelling, you will need an international bank card to make any transactions outside of your home country. Setting up a bank account can take a few weeks so you can use your international bank card for transactions during this period.

5. Housing information

Picking up your keys to your new home is the first thing you'll do when arriving in Leeds. So you will need your tenancy agreement document, the address of where you will be staying and the address of where you will be collecting the keys.

6. Toiletries

Whether your flight is just a short time in the air or if you're travelling for a long duration, it's important to bring with you any toiletries and medication that you may need. Lip balm and hand sanitiser are great items for beating the on-flight air conditioning and staying fresh or, if you want practice some self care on the way, pack yourself some moisturiser and an eye mask!

Don't forget, there may be restrictions on certain creams and liquids that you can bring onto your flight so make sure to check before you pack or they may be confiscated at the airport.

1. Warm clothing

The UK is a weather obsessed nation. We can't stop talking about it. It is often unpredictable and can change in an instant.

If you are from a warm climate, the temperature in the UK may be a little colder than you are used to. So its good to pack some sweaters.

It's also handy to have something waterproof for when those grey clouds appear.

2. UK plug adapter

Remember to bring some electric UK plug adapters so you can charge your phone and use other electrical appliances. But don't worry if you don't have one, plug adapters are frequently sold in most airports. You can also purchase more online once you've arrived.

3. Something to remind you of home

It’s a good idea to bring some personal items with you such as photographs of family and friends, posters, decorations, or even a cuddly toy. Having some mementos with you will create a home-from-home feeling and help you settle into your new accommodation.

get your university starter kit

If you are staying in university accommodation, you can get yourself kitted out using the website Uni Kit Out. On the Uni Kit Out site you can buy your bedding, bathroom, and kitchen utensils in advance. All items will be left in your room ready for your arrival.