What to Pack (And What NOT to) for Your UK University Life

The ultimate guide to Indian students beginning anew in the UK 

The thrill of rounding up to make your exit and study in the UK all too tangible — new country, new people, new adventure. And before it all happens, you're left with this ginormous question: "What do I pack?" 

For Indian students heading into student accommodation in London, this is more than just a checklist. It’s about balancing memories, essentials, and practicality — without overloading your baggage or missing key items. 

At Acolyte Living, we’ve helped hundreds of students transition smoothly into UK student accommodation. Based on their real experiences, here’s a detailed, no-stress packing guide for your university life in the UK — from must-haves to leave-behinds. 

Savvy Student's Essentials: What to Pack 

1. Things You Absolutely Must Carry 

Keep them handy in your handbag or water-proof folder inside your suitcase: 

• Passport + UK student visa 

• University acceptance letter and CAS 

• Prescriptions and health insurance documents 

• Academic certificates and mark sheets 

• 8–10 passport photos (UK size) 

Tip: Scan and save all documents digitally. You never know when you'll need a soft copy. 

 2. Clothing: Weather-Resistant, Space-Saving Wardrobe 

The UK is never cold, but no longer ever dull. Dress accordingly: 

• 2–3 good jumpers or hoodies 

• Windcheater or water jacket 

• Jeans, joggers, daywear (8–10 loads) 

• Formal stuff (for Diwali evenings and cultural meetings of a sort) 

• 1–2 decent ones for university things or job interviews 

• Nightclothes and undergrads (10–12 loads) 

If you are staying in shared student London flatshare, there will be washing machines. So do not pack loads of clothes. 

 3. Life Made Easy Electronics 

• Laptop + charger 

• Universal plug adapter (UK plugs Type G) 

• Mobile phone (ideally unlocked for UK SIM) 

• Earphones, power bank, USBs, hard drive 

If you're residing in a London private student house, all the rooms are geek-friendly — just always have your bare essentials with you. 

4. Food & Kitchen Staples 

Indian food convenience is not negotiable for the crew of us. So yes — take some back home. 

What to pack 

• Labeled small ziplock of masalas 

• Maggi, khichdi packets, soup packets (only a few at most!) 

• Light pack only favourite pickle and dry snacks 

• Small pressure cooker (optional) 

• One cutlery (1 plate, 1 spoon, 1 steel glass) — emotional value not counted! 

Most of the kitchen facilities shared by student students are located in London region, label bins. 

 What NOT to bring: Save Space, Save Stress 

1. Heavy Cooking Utensils 

Induction pans, plates — easily found in the UK — even occasionally as in London or student halls, in common areas. Don't take all that with you. 

2. Full-Sized Toiletries 

Take travel-sized only in week one. Normal-size shampoos, powders, and soaps are readily available across UK chain stores like Boots, Tesco, or Asda for a reasonable price. 

3. Big Winter Coats Made In India 

They look good but won't survive the UK weather. Buy on arrival from shops like Decathlon, Uniqlo, or Primark. 

4. Too Much Footwear 

Replace with: 

• 1 pair of trainers 

• 1 pair of smart shoes 

• 1 pair of slippers/flip-flops 

All student accommodation in London is small enough to barely have room for anything — pack lightly. 

Acolyte Students' Pro Packing Tips 

• "Roll your clothes, not fold — saves loads of space." 

• "Pack prescription meds essentials — paracetamol is a nice comfort when sick alone." 

• "Buy a UK SIM on arrival — airport shopping has decent student offers." 

• "Join flatmates' WhatsApp accommodation groups — others work out what does what to prevent duplication." 

First-Time Flyers 

First-time flying abroad: 

• Arrive airport at least 3.5 hours prior to flying time 

• Pack spare set of clothes in cabin luggage (just in case your main luggage will be held up) 

• Make hard copy of address of accommodation and university welcome letter 

Whether you land at Heathrow or Gatwick, relax in the knowledge your student accommodation close to your university in London will be your new home — your comfort zone. 

Acolyte Living Can Make It Simpler 

We are not here to leave you in a room. We are here to leave you in life. From that London student hostel to airport landing and first UK-made khichdi — you're in safe hands with us. 

Student-focused, trust-first approach keeps you on good terms — light luggage, dare-to-travel attitude. 

Already making room in your plans? 

Acolyte Living takes the planning off your hands — in London's top student accommodation. 

Experience the best of UK student living. 

Comfy, friendly and easy to get around – it's all under one roof.