what to pack to study abroad in london

27 Top London/England Study Abroad Packing List Items for 2026 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring

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From walking down Oxford Circus to minding the gap on the tube, a study abroad experience in London or one of the many cities in England is a fabulous time. With deep-rooted history on every street, plenty of pubs, and thrilling Museums, let England capture your heart and be your home for the next 6 months.

Feel like a local when you wander to classes and go out to all the hot spots on nights out with new friends. Try a classic Sunday Roast, find yourself at the local fish and chip house or test street foods at Borough Market. England is a great country to study abroad in, now all you must do is pack and have the time of your life in your new home!

Use our guide to learn what essentials you’ll need, what to wear in London/England, and what NOT to bring so you can make the most of your limited time abroad.

27 Top London/England Study Abroad Packing List Items for 2026 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring
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What To Pack for a London/England Study Abroad Trip - 27 Essentials

  • 1. Packing Cubes

    packing cubes

    Moving to a new country can be quite an adjustment, so why not make it easier with packing cubes. Place selected items in specific cubes so you know exactly where everything is when you unpack in your new home. Optimize precious space in your already very filled suitcase with this 5-piece set.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 2. Comfortable, Yet Fashionable Shoes

    Comfortable, Yet Fashionable Shoes

    Chances are, you will be doing a lot of walking in London or England. From catching buses, running to make the tube, or walking to class, a comfortable pair of walking shoes is essential. However, London is quite a fashionable city so make sure these sneakers are cool, chic, and always stylish while you’re on the go.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 3. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

    how a vpn works

    You never know what hackers or predators are lurking on public networks at cafes, libraries, universities, hotels, the airport, etc. It’s safest to have a reliable VPN when you first arrive or if you're using public Wi-Fi at coffee shops. Check with your new accommodation and university what network they use so you can access personal documents on your computer and phone safely. It also minimizes regional censorship so you can freely surf the web as you would back home.

    View NordVPN.com Options

  • 4. Neck Wallet

    Neck Wallet

    Losing your passport on day #1 would be a real drag… While this might not be your everyday accessory to and from class, it will come in handy when traveling to England or doing day trips. Keep your passport, credit cards, and any important documents safe and secure when you arrive in England and be stress-free through customs and baggage claim.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 5. Stylish Raincoat

    Stylish Raincoat

    England is known for its rain and a charming grey appeal (that is more romantic than it sounds, haha!) Sometimes, you must be prepared to experience all four seasons in one day. While a typical raincoat might suit you just fine in your home country, think about going a little higher-end while in England. A stylish trench coat will get you through all bad weather patterns, and you’ll look good too.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 6. Travel Insurance

    Travel Insurance

    Since you’ll be staying in England for multiple months, travel insurance is essential when moving here. Check through your university to see what plans they offer through the study abroad program and make sure they have basic options such as health and travel coverage. Accidents can happen and it's always best to be prepared while in a foreign country that will now be your new home.

    We recommend using Faye Travel Insurance because they make insurance less painful and way more approachable. Everything is handled through their mobile app and 24/7 support allows you to reach out for any questions regarding flight delays, cancellations, theft, or issues that you can’t even predict will happen (and while abroad, they typically will!) Having someone in your corner is a huge relief when living in a new place.

    Get a quote in less than 60 seconds with Faye

  • 7. Jet Lag Relief

    Jet Lag Relief

    Depending on where you're traveling from, you’ll probably feel a bit jet-lagged. The time difference from America can range from 5 to 8 hours, and why face that when there is a remedy? These natural pills help to relieve drowsiness, headaches, and tiredness in those first vital days in England. Feel your best when you arrive and become accustomed to the time change more quickly.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 8. Windproof Travel Umbrella

    Hero Umbrella

    Always be ready for an afternoon shower while in the UK, because while it may not be forecasted, you better believe it will sneak up on you. This windproof umbrella is sturdy and strong, designed to withstand REAL weather. It also comes with a nice carrying case to keep it safe and stow away in your bag. Don’t let the rain pour on your study abroad parade.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 9. Water-Resistant Shoe Bags

    Water-Resistant Shoe Bags

    All that rain and city muck is beautiful, but does NOT belong in your luggage. That’s why we use these shoe bags to separate our dirty kicks from clean clothing items. Contain the dirt and moisture so things don’t get rancid and gross by the time you’re heading home.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 10. Waterproof Backpack

    Waterproof Backpack

    Depending on where you study in England, chances are you’ll be running around the city from class to class. A cool and stylish backpack is all you need to pack your laptop, chargers, and appropriate class work. Make sure it’s big enough to hold all your essential items and durable to withstand heavy items on the go. This one is waterproof which is a must for England.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 11. TSA-Approved Luggage Locks

    TSA-Approved Luggage Locks

    Unfortunately, we have had items stolen out of our suitcase, and this is more common on international journeys than domestic. Your bags will be out of sight when you check them in for the flight (which often has layovers), and you may encounter ferries with luggage drops, storage rooms, and other times where you have to put a lot of trust in strangers. These locks give us huge peace of mind that no sticky fingers will go rummaging through our things.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 12. International Travel Adapter

    International Travel Adapter

    England has a very different outlet compared to the US, and an adapter will save your life when you’re studying abroad. England’s voltage is much higher compared to the US, so please check all your electronics and ensure their voltage is within a certain range, so you don’t fry all your devices (I speak from experience, sadly). England’s plug format is type G and uses 110/240-volt standards. This one is backed by a lifetime replacement, so it’s the last one you’ll ever need to buy!

    View on Amazon.com

  • 13. eSIM Data Service for England (Avoid Roaming Fees!)

    saily

    As someone who dealt with being offline during a study abroad program, I can tell you it’s NO fun! I couldn’t get a SIM card to work compatibly which meant I was offline, couldn’t navigate, couldn’t translate the French menus (yours will be in English, thankfully) but all and all, it was a mess.

    eSIM will keep you online from the moment you land. Activate it before you depart without the need for physical SIM cards since the ‘e’ stands for ‘embedded’ into your phone. We use Saily since they operate in 200+ countries, which means you can hop between the best networks in Europe without any fuss.

    Don’t let your domestic provider overcharge you. Use our link for an automatic 5% discount (code: ASHER5).

    Pick a data plan at Saily.com

  • 14. Sleep Mask

    sleep mask

    While you might have a private room during your study abroad experience, you may also have a roommate. A sleep mask is essential for staying well-rested when a roommate might have an early-morning class or come home late at night. Sleep longer and be refreshed with the help of this simple yet brilliant item.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 15. Hand & Foot Warmers

    Hand & Foot Warmers

    The three times I’ve visited England, it’s been quite cold. The weather can be chaotic, but it’s that damp, bone-chilling cold that really gets to you more than a dry-cold would. Hand and foot warmers are a small luxury you’ll be very glad to have! Simply shake them after unwrapping and the air activates them for 10+ hours of cozy heat. I stick them in my socks or jacket pockets to hold as I walk around.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 16. Quick-Dry Travel Towel

    HERO Travel Towel - Blue

    You’ll probably buy a proper towel once you're over in England, but a travel towel is great to start with and can be used in multiple ways throughout your stay. Use it when you go to some of England’s fabulous parks like Kensington Gardens or Hyde Park and take it with you when you have day trips within England or go to other exciting countries.

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  • 17. Lipstick-Sized Portable Charger

    Lipstick-Sized Portable Charger

    Keep your electronics charged between classes with this small and strong portable charger. Whether you're sightseeing between classes or working hard in coffee shops, never feel the stress of having an uncharged device. Keep this with you on the go and feel prepared for any situation thrown your way.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 18. Suitcase Set

    Suitcase Set

    Keep all your belongings together and safe when you’re moving to a new country. This three-piece set can all be kept together and allows you to have versatility when you explore other parts of the world. Suitcases in London and England work much better on the streets and are easier to transfer from airports to your new home!

    View on Amazon.com

  • 19. Luggage Straps

    Luggage Straps

    Baggage handlers are… eh hm.. Less than gentle with your suitcase. Between blunt tosses, wild conveyor belts, layovers and plane changes, etc. – your suitcases will really go through it. Bags are more likely to get lost or withstand damage on internatinoal flights than domestic too, so reinforce your bags with these luggage straps. They can handle 700 lbs of force tension, and the bright colors and patterns are awesome for spotting your set of belongings from across the arrivals terminal so you can get on with your day.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 20. Filtered Water Bottle

    Filtered Water Bottle

    Drinking tap water in England and London is completely safe and this filtered water bottle will only make it better. Save money on constantly buying plastic water bottles and use this reusable bottle throughout your studies. Never worry about drinking unclean water again and spend your money on more important things.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 21. Noise-Canceling Headphones

    Noise-Canceling Headphones

    Stay up to date on the coolest podcasts and listen to the newest songs with good-quality headphones in England. Whether you’re on your way to class, sitting on the tub or flying to a new destination, stay connected to the tunes when you’re exploring some of the best cities in England and beyond. These are noise-canceling which can also help you focus in loud areas filled with fellow students.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 22. Hanging Toiletry Bag

    hanging toiletry bag

    England’s bathrooms are called ‘water closets’ or ‘the loo’. Closet is an understatement because they are typically much smaller than the bathrooms in the States.

    Keep all your toiletries together in your new accommodation with a simple yet effective hanging toiletry bag that will help you maximize limited space. If you have multiple roommates, it can sometimes get a bit messy in the bathroom or room with so many products. Keep all your items safe and in a designated location in this large, beautiful bag.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 23. Packable “Just in Case” Bag

    Packable “Just in Case” Bag

    Don’t overpay for an extra bag in the UK, it will cost a fortune with the conversion rate, and you will likely need that extra bag for any shopping you do overseas. The souvenirs and treats are worth stocking up on, for you and your family. I bring this compact bag that is quite small when empty in my suitcase, but for the flight home, it counts as my personal item to stow under the airplane seat (avoiding carry-on fees, woo-hoo!) It’s gorgeous and way higher quality than what you’ll get at a tacky souvenir shop.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 24. Universal Waterproof Phone Pouch

    Waterproof Phone Pouch

    England means rain, and phones are not generally waterproof. Protect your lifeline from the elements with this phone case that fits nearly every phone (anything under 7 inches). You can use it for beach trips or pool trips later too, since it allows you to film epic videos underwater, with sound!

    View on Amazon.com

  • 25. Pocket Blanket

    Pocket Blanket

    For picnics, concerts, festivals, or just chilling and studying on the campus grounds – this travel blanket is a must! It folds up very small, about the size of a fist, and unfolds to seat a whole flock of friends. It comes with the stakes included so nothing blows away, and the moisture-proof material means you won’t stand up with a soggy bum.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 26. Cooling Towel

    Cooling Towel

    Yes, England is cold. But it’s also hot! I’ve stood in some lines on a warm, summer day and practically melted. If you’re attending a study abroad program in the summer months, I highly recommend bringing this cooling towel. Simply add water and it will get chilly (20-30 degrees colder than the outside temp) for up to an hour. It’s kind of magical and a must for all warm travel destinations, gym days, hikes, or standing in long, sun-drenched lines that would otherwise be miserable.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 27. Thank You Note for Your Host

    Thank You Note for Your Host

    This is an optional but super considerate gesture for the family that hosts you. A simple thank-you note goes a long way, and you may want to write some to your teachers or new friends too. Offline connection is the move, let’s be real. It’s a lost art and something everyone is craving these days: tangible joy, something real in a digital world.

    View on Amazon.com

What to Wear for a London/ England Study Abroad Trip

Wear for a London Known as one of the fashion capitals of the world, London fashion is chic, cool, and sophisticated. Even when it's bad weather, or people are just popping to the shop, you can expect people to be dressed to impress. While dressing casual is totally acceptable, be a little more elevated with your options.

Luckily, since you will be calling London or England home for a few months, you have options to buy some new pieces and really discover your British style. Make sure you have great rain gear and, most importantly, good shoes that you know you can wear for long periods of time.

What should WOMEN wear in London/England? – (Click to expand)

Below is a sample women's clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

Women in London and England dress very chic and trendy. While the majority of your time will be in classes or hanging out with your new friends, simple outfits like jeans, t-shirts and a backpack is perfect for lounging around and getting things done. Feel free to express yourself with your fashion in England as everything is acceptable.

Dress any outfit up with a cool leather jacket and biker boots, and don’t be afraid to wear trendy sneakers with everything. Going out tops and heels are perfect for fancy dinners with friends and remember to let loose and feel comfortable with whatever you choose to wear.

What should MEN wear in London/England? – (Click to expand)

Below is a sample men's clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

Men’s dressing can be quite casual and dressy at the same time in England. Wear nice jeans with trendy sneakers and a button-down to class, the pub, or dinner, and let your style really shine with a fun jacket. While normal casual clothes like joggers and hoodies are totally fine, add some cool accessories like a backpack or hat to set yourself apart.

Don’t be afraid to wear something totally out of the ordinary but always wear comfortable shoes that have a little edge to them like Chelsea boots. Always have some type of rain jacket with you to wear with jeans and remember sunglasses for those sunny walks to and from class.

Dressing for the Season

  • Spring - March, April, May

     - March, April, May

    Imagine flowers blooming, warm afternoons, and chances of a few showers and that’s England in the Spring.

    With average temperatures ranging between 45°F to 60°F, this is the perfect time of year to wear t-shirts, jeans, and light jackets. Always be prepared to put on some layers and always have an umbrella.

  • Summer - June, July, August

    From cool dresses with fun and bright purses, women like to express themselves, but also look fabulous in the summer.

    With average temperatures ranging between 60°F and 80°F, this is the time to show off your best outfits and enjoy delightful summer weather. With this lovely weather comes bigger crowds, so be aware when out and about exploring.

  • Fall - September, October, November

    While the fall brings fewer crowds, the temperature moves between a pleasant 55°F and 65°F. However, be aware that this is sometimes the rainiest season in England.

    Wear layers such as hoodies or crewnecks and always carry a raincoat. Always try to accessorize with bags and hats.

  • Winter - December, January, February

     - December, January, February

    The days definitely feel shorter in the winter with less sunshine and greyer skies; however, it never gets too cold, with temperatures ranging from 40°F to 50°F.

    This is the time to wear layers, trendy leather jackets or bomber jackets. While comfortable shoes are great, leather boots are perfect to wear for every occasion.

Dressing Appropriately for the Activity – (Click to expand)

Classes: Comfortable and chic
Being comfortable is key when it comes to working in classes, walking around the city and taking the tube. Leggings and hoodies are perfect options to wear to class, while men can wear nice joggers and shoes with a hat. While you still want to look fashionable, it’s important to feel relaxed while working all day.

Nights Out: Smart and Classy
Whether you go to the local pub, out for dinner and drinks, or head to a club, this is the time to look fancy and smart. Women should wear heels while men should wear Chelsea boots with either a nice top or dress trousers. Some clubs have a dress code so check beforehand so you’re allowed in.

Sightseeing: Stylish, but comfortable
Even though you may be calling England your new home while studying abroad, you are still going to either sightsee or wander the bustling streets quite a bit. Feel free to dress however you choose but no that casual is totally fine for this, wearing jeans and tops is totally normal and completely acceptable.

What NOT to Bring

  • 1. DON’T BRING A Hair Dryer or Straighteners

    While you might be tempted to bring your favorite hair straightener or hair dryer with you, don’t. Unfortunately, the voltage will not work, and you will end up blowing the fuses. However, feel free to buy a new one in the UK.

  • 2. DON’T PACK Heavy Books

    While you might be tempted to bring all your books with you to school, look at bringing a Kindle or renting school books online through your computer website or online libraries.

  • 3. Lots of Toiletries

    If there are certain toiletries that you can’t live without while in England, by all means, bring them. However, please be aware that you can purchase almost all the exact same brands in England at either Boots, pharmacies, or department stores.

  • 4. DON’T TAKE Food or Snacks

    Remember that England has many stores where you can purchase snacks to bring back to your accommodation. Pack fewer snacks, so you have more room for important items.

  • 5. DON’T Overpack

    Whilst you are moving to a new country for a few months and need plenty to wear, do not overpack. England has plenty of stores to buy things you forgot, and most online platforms offer next-day delivery.

  • 6. DON’T BRING Too Many Liquids

    You may want to bring with you big shampoo and conditioners, but I highly suggest getting all of that once you are in the UK. Big liquids will take up valuable space in your suitcase and there are many more items like a rain jacket or comfortable walking shoes that should take priority.

What NOT to Wear – (Click to expand)

The weather in England may be temperamental and rain often but you will rarely see locals wearing rain boots. Invest in waterproof shoes or Chelsea boots so you still look fashionable but are practical. While you are free to wear whatever you choose in England, I would avoid bringing ripped jeans and instead invest in something classic like straight leg jeans for women or joggers for men. The aim is to look well put together, but practical for your everyday life and activities.

FAQs about London/England Study Abroad Trips

  • 1. How should I get around London/England?

     How should I get around London/England?

    England has very good public transportation. If you’re in a city the best and fastest way to get around is by the tube or bus. While there are Ubers and the famous black cabs available, this can sometimes be expensive. I highly recommend downloading “Citymapper” to learn about all the ways to get around. Public transportation is more affordable and the best way to get to know London.

  • 2. Do I have to tip?

    Service charge is typically included when you go out to eat in restaurants and it’s 12%. There is no need to tip for anything else unless you really want to.

  • 3. What are good day trips to take in England?

    Depending on where you study abroad, some places will be closer than others. Great day trips are to Stonehenge, Oxford, Manchester, Hampton Court, and many more. Check out the bus and train schedules and plan accordingly.

  • 4. Is daily life expensive in London/England?

     Is daily life expensive in London/England?

    When it comes to buying groceries, toiletries, and taking public transportation, England can be quite inexpensive. However, once you start planning trips, going out for lots of meals, and having a few drinks at local pubs, it can start to be a bit expensive. Give yourself a budget before going out and try to follow it to the best of your abilities. It's possible to be on a budget while London. It will require a little bit of planning, but it's definitely doable.

  • 5. Should I open an English Bank Account?

    To avoid foreign transaction fees, then I would suggest opening an English bank account or investing in an American Bank card that won’t charge you fees while in England.

  • 6. What is the emergency number for London/England?

    The UK’s national emergency number is 999.

  • 7. Is London/England safe at night?

    Is London/England safe at night?

    London and England are generally very safe. However, like in every country, there are some places you want to avoid at night. Always have your wits about you and try to be with another person if you are walking home late at night. Make sure your friends know when you leave and when to expect you home. Taking basic safety steps like these will come in handy no matter what big city you're in.

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