Complete UK Packing Guide for Indian Students 2025

A packing list for Indian students going to the UK is one of the most important things to figure out before leaving. In 2024, more than 1.43 lakh Indian students got UK student visas, and the number is likely to grow in 2025. With so many students preparing to leave, knowing what to pack can make the move easier.

The UK is different from India in many ways. The weather is colder, student housing is smaller, and some things are more expensive. If you don’t plan your luggage well, you might forget essentials or end up spending a lot after reaching. Packing right means fewer problems in your first few weeks there.

This blog covers everything you need to pack in order to study. You’ll find separate lists for clothes, shoes, kitchen items, documents, tech, medicines, and more. We’ve also added tips on what not to carry, how to manage baggage limits, and what to keep in your cabin bag.

Planning your move soon? Before you zip that suitcase, check out your options to study in the UK from top universities to visa tips.

Packed your bags? Now pack your future too. Explore top UK programs with upGrad and land with a plan:

• MSc in Data Science with Work Placement – IIITB + University of Roehampton, UK
• MBA – IMT + University of Roehampton, UK

Packing List for Indian Students Going to the UK: Overview

If you're flying to the UK for college, it's smart to pack early and only take what you really need. Things like winter clothes, meds, and everyday items can cost more there. This list will help you carry the right stuff from home, so you don’t waste money or overpack.

What You Need	Items to Carry
Documents	Passport, visa, offer letter, CAS, flight ticket, ID copies, medical records
Clothes	Jackets, jeans, t-shirts, warm layers, shoes, slippers, ethnic wear, raincoat
Electronics	Laptop, phone, chargers, UK plug adapter, headphones, power bank
Toiletries	Toothbrush, paste, soap, shampoo, pads, nail cutter, razor
Food & Spices	Instant food, ready-to-eat packs, tea bags, small masala boxes, snacks
Kitchen Basics	Small cooker, plate, spoon, bottle, lunch box, peeler
Stationery	Pens, notebooks, a stapler, folder, backpack
Medicines	Fever, cold, allergy tablets, basic first-aid, your prescriptions
Other Essentials	Bedsheet, laundry bag, lock, umbrella, extra glasses, small sewing kit

Now, let us note the documents that you should carry to the UK without fail!

What Documents Should Indian Students Carry to the UK?

Before you fly, keep all your important papers in one folder and carry it in your handbag. You might need to show them at the airport or after landing, so don’t pack them in your check-in bag.

These are the documents you should carry:

• Your passport
• Your UK student visa
• The CAS letter from your university
• Your final admission letter
• Marksheets and certificates from school or college
• TB test report if needed
• Bank statements or loan papers as proof of funds
• Details of your stay in the UK
• Travel insurance papers
• A copy of your flight ticket
• COVID vaccine certificate if asked
• A few passport photos
• Any medical records or regular prescriptions
• A note with emergency contact numbers

Note: Always keep a scanned copy ready with you. It will help you in emergencies.

Also Read: Top Universities and Colleges in UK

Clothing Checklist for Indian Students Travelling to the UK

Packing the right clothes can save you both money and stress once you land in the UK. The weather is colder and rainier than most parts of India, so it’s best to be prepared. Focus on layers, warm gear, and essentials for both daily use and special occasions.

Season	Months	What to Pack
Early Autumn	September – October	Light jacket, full-sleeve t-shirts, jeans, sneakers, umbrella, hoodie
Late Autumn to Winter	November – Mid-December	Heavy jacket, wool socks, boots, scarf, gloves, beanie, thermals
Peak Winter	Mid-December – February	Down coat, thick thermals, insulated boots, muffler, woolen caps, gloves
Spring	March – May	Sweatshirts, light jackets, t-shirts, raincoat, jeans, closed shoes
Summer	June – August	Light cottons, t-shirts, shorts, sandals, sunglasses, an umbrella, a cap

Note: Keep the clothes according to the weather conditions in the UK. Keeping the heavy loads of clothes for all seasons is not advisable.

Also Read: Best Courses to Study in UK

Indian Kitchen Items to Include in the UK Packing List

A lot of Indian students in the UK prefer cooking their own meals. It saves money and helps you enjoy the comfort of home-style food. While Indian grocery stores are available in cities like London or Manchester, not everything is easy to find and some items can be expensive.

Below is a simple kitchen packing list to help you get started:

Item Category	What to Pack
Basic Utensils	Pressure cooker (2–3L), non-stick pan, kadai, 2 serving spoons, 1 ladle
Cutlery	Plates, bowls, spoons, forks, 1 knife, peeler, small grater
Containers	4–5 airtight containers (for storing dal, rice, spices, etc.)
Spices	Basic masalas (turmeric, cumin, red chilli, garam masala), some whole spices
Other Essentials	Tea strainer, rolling pin and board (for rotis), small strainer
Optional Items	Tava, mixer-grinder

Note:

• Only pack what you truly need. Luggage space is limited.
• Avoid heavy steel or glass items. They add weight fast.
• You can buy dals, spices, and even a pressure cooker in the UK later, if needed.

Also Read: UK Scholarships for Indian Students

What Electronics and Adapters Are Required for Indian Students in the UK?

The UK uses different plugs and voltage than India. If you're packing electronics, make sure they're compatible and useful.

Category	Items to Carry
Must-Have	Smartphone, laptop with charger, earphones, universal travel adapter (Type G)
Power Needs	2 to 3 UK plug adapters, Indian-style power strip
Optional Gadgets	Trimmer, tablet, power bank, smartwatch
Voltage Reminder	UK runs on 230V. Most modern devices work fine, but older ones may not

Note:

• Carry at least two strong adapters. Avoid cheap ones that break.
• Skip carrying hair dryers, kettles, or irons from India. Buy these in the UK to avoid voltage issues.
• If your charger label says 100–240V and 50/60Hz, it's safe for UK use.

Everyday Essentials for Indian Students Moving to the UK

Some basic regular-use things that might be small but are very important in your day to day life are as follow.

Toiletries: Carry bathroom essentials like toothbrush,toothpaste,shampoo,perfume,pads,cutter and a small comb so that you don't need to spend your penny on small things on the first day.

Stationeries: Carry your pens,pencils,notebook and other important supplies like stapler.

Medicines: Carry a handy medkit containing paracetamol,balm or any regular medicines you take.

Clothing Extras: Must carry your socks,belts, handkerchiefs or maybe a scarf according to the climatic conditions. These items are important in cold areas.

Daily Use Items: Lunchbox, reusable water bottle, some shopping bags can be a big saver for storing and carrying purposes.

Laundry Stuff: Must bring washing amenities like a small laundry bag, washing powder, cloth clips to make your laundry experience easier.

Other Useful Things: Carry things that are basics like an umbrella, a sewing kit, sunglasses, as they not seem so important at the time of packing but are worth carrying.

Note: Understand your need and accordingly pack the items that are light and easy to carry. Other things can be bought after you settle.

Also Read: Cost of Living in UK

What Items Should Indian Students Avoid Packing for the UK?

You don’t need to carry everything. Some things just take up space or won’t be useful there.

• Big cooking pots or pressure cookers
  They’re too heavy. You can buy or share them in the UK.
• Too many clothes
  Just pack what you need. The UK weather is different and you’ll buy clothes there anyway.
• Blankets and pillows
  These take up too much space. Get them after you arrive.
• Lots of food items
  A few snacks or ready-to-eat things are okay, but don’t pack full bags of rice, atta, or oil.
• Too many books
  Carry only what you really need. You’ll find most books in your university library.
• Items not allowed at the airport
  Things like knives, open bottles of pickle, or seeds can be stopped at customs.
• Electric items from India
  Mixers, irons, or heaters from India might not work in the UK because of voltage differences.

Note:Pack only the things you need urgently. You can always buy the rest after you reach the UK.

How upGrad Supports Indian Students Planning to Study in the UK

upGrad helps Indian students through the full journey of studying in the UK. Here's what they do:

• One-on-one counselling
  You can talk to an expert who helps you pick the right course and college based on what you want.
• Help with applications
  They guide you on filling out forms, writing your SOP, and sending all documents the right way.
• Support with scholarships
  They show you which scholarships you can apply for and help you with the process.
• Visa help
  upGrad explains the UK visa steps clearly and helps you apply without mistakes.
• Help finding a place to stay
  They also help you look for safe and affordable housing near your university.
• Before-you-go tips
  You get packing lists, travel tips, and info about UK life so you’re ready before flying.
• Job and career support
  After you reach the UK, they help with part-time job search, making your resume, and learning job-ready skills.

Book Your Free 1:1 Counselling Session Today!

Conclusion

Packing for the UK as a student doesn’t have to be hard. Just carry the things you really need and use often. Focus on daily use items, a few comfort things from home, and basics you may not find easily there. This UK packing list for Indian students will help you stay ready, save money, and feel more settled once you arrive. Keep it light and useful.