plus some simple tips from a current student!

As an international student preparing to embark on a new journey in the United Kingdom, it's important to ensure you have all the necessary items and information for a smooth transition and comfortable stay.

In this blog, we will discuss the essential things to carry with you as an international student in the UK, including kitchen appliances, spices, medications, important documents, and electronics. Additionally, we'll provide tips on securing accommodation and understanding the healthcare system.

1. Kitchen Essentials:

Pressure Cooker: A 3 litre pressure cooker, preferably non-stick, can be incredibly useful for cooking meals quickly and efficiently if you are fond of cooking traditional dishes.

Heriot-Watt do not recommend bringing electrical items from outside the EU & UK, either buy them new from the UK & EU, or get them PAT tested when they arrive.

Other things like pots and pans are easily available in the UK at a cheap cost, and the Chaplaincy at Heriot-Watt also gives away some of the donated pots and pans at the start of each intake.

2. Spices:

Stock up on essential spices that may be expensive or hard to find in the UK. Examples include mustard seeds, cumin, cardamom, turmeric powder, dried curry leaves, whole red chilies, chilly powder, asafoetida, cloves, and coriander powder. These spices will help you maintain the flavours of your favourite dishes from home. Other things are available in supermarkets here.

3. Medications:

Carry necessary medications, including dental supplies, prescription glasses (extra pairs), and essential over-the-counter medicines. Don't forget to include Vitamin D tablets, for the autumn and winter months. Other things are covered under NHS, go to tips 9 and 10 to know more.

4. Clothing:

Carry weather-appropriate clothing and invest in a waterproof jacket to tackle the UK's unpredictable weather conditions. Affordable options can be found at popular stores like Primark and H&M.

5. Important Documents:

• Academic Documents: Carry all your academic transcripts, degrees, and certifications, as they may be required for administrative purposes during your stay.
• Identification: Carry 1-2 ID proofs with your signature for making payments with debit or credit cards in the UK.
• Driving License: If you have a driving license from your home country, bring it along. It is valid for driving during the first year (ensure it is in English or obtain an international driving permit).

6. Digital Copies and Attested Copies:

Upload original scans of important documents to a secure online storage platform. Give attested copies to your family for emergencies. Sign Forex reload forms if you are using a Forex card without a nominee.

7. Forex and Banking:

Forex/travel cash/travel card is a good option to have until you get your bank account sorted in the UK. They can be a cheaper option to bank transfers in the initial days.

• Forex Cards: Carry two Forex cards, splitting your money between them for backup. Store them separately for security. Also, carry some forex cash for immediate expenses.
• UK Adaptor: Bring a UK adaptor for your electronics. Consider buying an extension cable with USB slots for convenience.

Additional Tips:

8. Accommodation:

Secure accommodation before arriving in the UK to avoid last-minute stress as it can be very difficult to find affordable accommodation in town. Plus, there may not be enough rooms on campus to accommodate you if you arrive with nothing sorted, so secure it before you arrive!

9. Health Surcharge and NHS:

If you are from a non-EU, non-EEA, or non-Switzerland country, pay the health surcharge as part of your visa application. This grants you access to the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK.

10. NHS Coverage:

The NHS covers various services, including accident and emergency care, hospitals, GPs, dentists, pharmacies, sexual health, alcohol addiction support, urgent care, mental health services, smoking cessation programs, consultations with specialists, home care, care homes, and maternity services.

Familiarise yourself with the healthcare system and any specific payment requirements for certain services like prescriptions, dental treatment, and eye tests.

Bringing Goods into the UK: Banned and Restricted Items

When traveling to the UK from abroad, it's important to be aware of the regulations regarding bringing goods for personal use. The UK government has specific rules and restrictions to protect public safety, health, and the environment. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

Banned Goods: Certain goods are strictly prohibited from being brought into the UK. These items will be seized by customs if found during the inspection. Examples of banned goods include controlled drugs, offensive weapons, self-defense sprays, endangered animal and plant species, rough diamonds, and indecent or obscene materials like books, magazines, films, and DVDs. Additionally, personal imports of meat and dairy products from most non-EU countries are not allowed.

Restricted Items: Some goods are classified as restricted, meaning they can only be brought into the UK with a special license or under specific conditions. This applies to firearms, explosives, and ammunition.

Certain food and plant products are also subject to restrictions: Certain plant and food products are subject to restriction. Please check UK government regulations before taking any food or plant items into the country, and please make sure that they are for your own personal consumption

Intellectual Property Rights: Bringing goods suspected of infringing intellectual property rights, such as counterfeit or "pirate" copies of movies, music, or other copyrighted materials, can lead to seizure of the items and potential prosecution.

Complying with the Regulations: To ensure compliance with the regulations, it's advisable to familiarise yourself with the guidelines provided by the UK government.

Being well-prepared as an international student in the UK is essential for a successful and comfortable stay. By packing essential items and following the provided tips, you'll be better equipped to settle in, focus on your studies, and navigate daily life in the UK.

Remember to plan ahead, secure accommodation in advance, and familiarise yourself with the healthcare system to prioritise your well-being during your international student journey.

This was written by an International Student at Heriot Watt - Jil.