Packing list for international and exchange students

Always make sure you have the following in your hand luggage:

• Valid passport.
• Access to your digital eVisa and UKVI decision email. If you are an exchange or study abroad student Visitor, your visa support letter/short acceptance letter from our International Engagement Office.
• European Health Insurance Card (for EEA and Swiss students only).
• Your mobile phone, tablet or laptop with access to your accommodation allocation, Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) email (if relevant), confirmation of meet and greet, and Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate (if required). If your mobile device is likely to have a flat battery by the time you arrive in the UK, print these documents off before leaving home.
• Evidence of funding (if relevant) for your tuition fees and living costs, including a letter from your sponsor (if appropriate).
• If you are under 18, you will need to bring the supporting letter from your parents that you used in your visa application.
• Any other important correspondence from the University, either printed or in an electronic format.
• A small amount of UK currency, no more than £400 GBP. Please note that the University is a “cash-free campus” so, for purchases on campus, please be prepared to pay via bank card or phone payment app.
• Your tuberculosis certificate if you needed this for your student visa, and any other health certificates including vaccinations and x-ray reports (if appropriate).
• Your travel insurance policy number and emergency contact details.
• A list of key contacts in the UK:
  • International Student Advice: 9am to 5pm, Monday – Friday +44 (0)1483 983952 or contact us using Surrey Support
  • Campus Safety: 24 hours, Monday – Sunday: +44 (0)1483 682002 (non-emergency) or +44 (0)1482 683333 (emergency)
  • NHS medical advice (non-emergency): 24 hours, Monday – Sunday: call 111
  • UKCISA student advice line: 1pm to 4pm, Monday – Friday +44 (0)20 7788 9214 (inside the UK)
  • International Engagement Office (exchange and study abroad office): 9am to 5pm, Monday – Friday +44 (0)1483 683152/682003 or email: ieo.incoming@surrey.ac.uk 

Most airlines allow 20–23kg of checked luggage and there are strict size and weight restrictions on all hand luggage. Please check with your airline for up-to-date instructions before you fly. 

Weather in the UK is highly variable and likely to change from day to day; temperatures range from 1°C – 5°C in winter and 20°C – 30°C in summer.

It is a good idea to bring a selection of light clothes that you can wear in layers as well as some warm outer clothing and a waterproof coat or umbrella.

Hats, gloves and scarves, as well as thick socks, are essential in the winter but can be bought at a reasonable price in the UK. 

You may also wish to bring an item of national costume or tradition so that you can share your culture with others as well as participating in annual events.

We recommend you bring a laptop and mobile phone with you to the UK. In the UK, 13-amp sockets are commonly used, which require three-pronged plugs (Type G). You may need an adaptor to make your devices compatible with UK sockets. Electrical items that you bring with you to the UK must have a CE certification marking and conform to UK standards.

It is a good idea to bring a few small items for your room that will remind you of home, such as photographs of family and friends, books, posters and other mementos, as these will help you to settle in and adjust to your new life in the UK.