What to pack

Hand luggage checklist

Passport and visa (if separate) 

Copy of your Confirmation of Acceptance of Studies (CAS) 

A cash credit card 

A copy of this guide 

A jumper and umbrella 

Label your luggage clearly with full name, University, address 

For personal security reasons you are strongly advised not to put all of your personal documents (passport, money, cash card/credit cards, documents, important addresses and telephone numbers) in one bag, wallet or pocket. Keep them on your person and in your hand luggage, but keep them separate. This will limit the possibility of losing ALL your valuable documents at once, should your baggage be lost or stolen. You will also need to have them to hand in case you are required to show them at immigration. You will not be allowed to collect your main luggage until you have passed through immigration control. We would recommend you keep photocopies of all your important documents and contact telephone numbers in your main luggage.

We recommend a pre paid travel card (such as Caxton) or a credit card and a small amount of British currency when you arrive for immediate expenses for you to use until your bank account is set up. Many shops and our campuses are cashless now. Do not carry large amounts of cash with you.

Climate and clothing

Please do not bring large electrical items such as rice cookers or heaters with you. UK voltages and plugs may be different and there will be regulations about what electrical items your accommodation will allow. Exeter shops stock a range of rice cookers and other such items. Remember that you will have to carry your luggage yourself at some point. Both Streatham and Penryn Campus are very hilly and only a few residences have an elevator. Only pack what you can carry!

The only certainty about the British weather is its changeability. Make sure you carry a jumper in your hand luggage for when you first arrive in the UK.

We would recommend you bring a waterproof coat, umbrella and waterproof shoes. If you do not have these items they can be easily purchased in Exeter, Falmouth or Truro.

Dress in Britain, especially at university, is mostly informal and casual. You will see many students in jeans, jogging trousers and training shoes. It will usually be made clear to you, when you are invited, that an occasion may demand something more formal or smart – if in doubt, just ask.

‘Formal’ clothes for men (dinner suits, etc) can be hired. You may want to bring your national costume to wear on special occasions.