What to Pack

Please note, this is not a comprehensive list. It is some items we think you may find useful as you start your Richmond journey! We are inviting students to add to this list over the summer, so you may see a few more tips or updates.

Important Documents

As part of our visa monitoring duties, all students need to show a passport. If you are under 25, we also recommend that you bring a driving licence or other proof of ID if you have one.

Clothing

The UK weather can change throughout the day, so we recommend packing a mixture of items depending on how long you’re staying. This could include:

  • T-shirts, cardigans, sweaters/jumpers
  • A good winter coat
  • A scarf, gloves, and hat
  • Sneakers (also known as “trainers” in the UK)
  • Gym clothes (we have several nearby gyms)
  • Everyday clothes
  • A nice outfit or two for special occasions
  • Underwear and socks

Toiletries

We recommend that you pack only the essential toiletries that you need whilst you travel. You should be able to buy everything you need in the UK.

Hair Products

We recommend that you buy any hair electronics (e.g. straightening irons or blow dryers) in the UK in order to reduce packing and ensure compatibility with our electrical supply.

Technology/Electronics

The UK uses a 3-pin socket operating at 230 volts. This is different to the United States of America and European countries. We recommend that you bring an adaptor for small items.

For valuable items or high-current electronics, it is important that you buy a compatible UK charger. Using a travel adaptor with these electronics could damage your device and/or the electrical supply.

  • Plug adaptors
  • Phone and charger
  • You will need a laptop computer for your studies, but specialist software will normally be available on-site or via our university licences
  • Headphones

Health and Wellbeing

Several chains of pharmacy operate throughout the UK who offer toiletries, general healthcare, and prescription-dispensing services. The two largest chains are Boots and Superdrug, but most large supermarkets will also have a pharmacy.

Although the UK has no Covid restrictions, we recommend that you pack facemasks and hand gel for your journey.

It is very important that you register with a GP (‘general practitioner’) if you are staying in the UK for an extended period of time in order to ensure you can access healthcare if you become unwell. If you currently take prescription medication from overseas, you should ensure that you travel with enough or have a plan to continue accessing your medication within the UK. Please email us on [email protected] if you need any help.

Miscellaneous

  • Reusable water bottle
  • A towel (you can buy others if needed when you are here)
  • Stationery
  • Pictures from home
  • Backpack