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Packing for university be it in a foreign country can be exciting as well as challenging. As a new student at Bournemouth University, you might be wondering what essentials you should bring with you to the UK. This blog will provide you with a comprehensive guide on what to pack for your journey to Bournemouth.
Clothing: When it comes to clothing, it is essential to pack clothes that are appropriate for the weather in the UK. The UK has a mild and rainy climate, so make sure to bring clothes that are suitable for both warm and cold weather. It is always a good idea to pack layers, such as long-sleeved shirts, body warmers, jumpers, and jackets. Do bring at least two formals for presentations and academic visits. Don’t forget to bring a waterproof coat rather than an Umbrella as it doesn’t stand against the wind.
Footwear: It’s important to have a comfortable and practical pair of shoes for everyday wear. Sneakers or trainers are a popular choice, as they are versatile and can be worn with various outfits. It’s also a good idea to have a pair of waterproof shoes or boots, as the UK weather can be unpredictable. Flip flops or sandals are useful for warmer months, and a pair of dress shoes may come in handy for formal occasions. Don’t forget to bring socks for summer as well as winter.
Electronics: Electronics are essential for any student. Make sure to bring your laptop, phone, and charger. It is also a good idea to bring a power bank, as you might be out and about on campus and need to recharge your devices. It’s worth noting that the UK has a different power outlet and voltage to some other countries, so if you are an international student, you might need to bring a power adapter or purchase one when you arrive. If you are a media or post-production student then bringing a hard disk would be good. And if you enjoy listening to music or podcasts, portable speakers can be a great addition to your packing list.
Important Documents: It is essential to bring all your important documents with you. Some of these are applicable to international students while some are in general. The documents include your passport, visa (if applicable), university acceptance letter (CAS), offer letters, financial statement proofs, Tuberculosis certificate, loan sanction letter and previous academic records (degrees and transcript). It’s also a good idea to bring copies of these documents, just in case you lose the originals. Moreover, do bring printed copies of your resume, cover letter, and receipts of payment such as tuition fee, deposit and accommodation. You can bring important certificates and references that will help you while applying for a job. Make sure to keep these documents in a secure and easily accessible place, such as a passport holder or a document folder.
Bedding: When moving to university, you might be staying in student accommodation. Most university halls provide basic bedding, such as a pillow and duvet, but you might need to bring your sheets and pillowcases. It’s worth checking with the university what bedding they provide, so you know what you need to bring. If you will be living in private accommodation you can bring the sheets if space allows but if not then you can easily purchase all the above-mentioned items from Primark or ASDA for under 50 pounds.
Kitchen Supplies: If you are staying in self-catered accommodation, you might want to bring some kitchen supplies with you. This includes utensils such as cutlery, 2 plates, 2 bowls, a pan and a coffee mug for the initial days. It’s worth noting that most student accommodation comes with shared kitchen facilities, so you might not need to bring everything. But again only bring these if you have extra space. If not, you can buy the items for cheap from ASDA.
Miscellaneous Items: When it comes to packing for university, there are always some miscellaneous items that you might need. This includes items such as a laundry bag, a first aid kit, a backpack, a water bottle, gloves, and beanies. If you wear, contact lenses or glasses make sure you bring an extra pair of those. It is also worth bringing any medication (with prescription) you might need, as it might take some time to register with a local GP (General Practitioner). Do bring some cash for emergencies and an extra debit or Forex card in case one doesn’t work.
Do bring snacks and easy-to-make food for the first week. It is also worth bringing any item that helps you calm down like a picture of your family, your favourite snack or a certain blanket which will help you fight homesickness. These might seem like small items, but they can make a big difference to your university experience.
What Not to Bring: No need to bring toiletries such as shampoo, conditioner, and soap/body wash. You can bring toothpaste and a toothbrush for the initial days. Do not bring an iron or hair dryer if you are an international student as the socket and voltage are different and might result in a short circuit. Don’t bring non-prescription medication and too many clothes.
The above-listed items are for both international as well as UK students so pack accordingly. With these essentials, you will be well on your way to an enjoyable and successful university experience. Lastly, embrace all that Bournemouth has to offer, get involved in extracurricular activities, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. This is your time to shine, and we can’t wait to see all that you will accomplish during your time at Bournemouth University!
