Cost effective tips to help international students move to the UK.

Starting university in the UK is an exciting step in your academic journey. Whether you're heading to England for the first time or returning after the holidays, preparing for your move doesn’t need to break the bank. With some careful planning, you can reduce costs and settle in smoothly.

This guide is designed to help international students pack efficiently, avoid unnecessary expenses and make use of practical services like self storage to simplify their move.

Pack light and prioritise essentials

Overpacking is one of the most common mistakes students make. Focus on the essentials and remember that most household items are easy to buy in the UK once you arrive.

What to pack:

• Basic clothing suitable for UK weather (one warm coat, a few jumpers, trousers, tops)
• Footwear for daily use and formal occasions
• Important documents (passport, visa, university admission letter, accommodation confirmation)
• Prescription medicines and a small supply of toiletries
• Laptop, chargers and UK plug adaptors
  

What to avoid:

• Kitchenware (most student accommodations provide essentials)
• Bulky bedding (can be purchased locally)
• Books (use digital versions or university libraries)
  

Understand airline baggage limits

Before you pack, check your airline's baggage policy. Some offer student fares with extra luggage allowances, take advantage of those!

Exceeding weight limits can cost more than your flight ticket.

To make the most of your luggage allowance, consider packing cubes or vacuum-sealed bags. These can help compress soft items like clothing and towels, freeing up space for other essentials.  If you are bringing fragile items, wrap them securely using clothing to minimise the need for bubble wrap and save space.

Tip: Weigh your bags at home and avoid surprises at the airport.

Consider self storage near your university

If you’re arriving early, staying in temporary accommodation or planning to travel during term breaks, a self storage unit can be an ideal solution.

Self storage offers flexible space for personal belongings you don’t immediately need, such as winter clothing, textbooks or large suitcases. This allows you to keep your student room tidy and manageable.

Pickfords offers secure and cost-effective self storage options near major university cities . For long-term needs, our drive up self storage facilities provide a convenient option.

If you’re short on time or transport, we also offer free collection for containers and traditional self storage in select locations.

Self storage prices can vary widely depending on the factors above, but here's a general guide to what you can expect to pay.

Choose luggage over shipping boxes

Shipping boxes internationally can lead to delays and extra costs. Instead, try to travel with just your checked and cabin baggage. Most students manage well with one large suitcase and one carry-on bag.

If you do need to send extra items, Pickfords can assist with international moving services tailored to your personal needs. Our expert team will ensure your belongings are delivered safely and on time.

Plan for arrival

Your hand luggage should include:

• A change of clothes
  
• Toiletries (travel sized)
  
• Important documents
  
• Electronics and chargers
  
• A reusable water bottle
  

Having these items accessible makes your first few days smoother while you settle in.

Make use of student discounts and offers

Many retailers in the UK offer student discounts, including on household items and stationery. Platforms like UNiDAYS and TOTUM provide access to these deals. You can register with your university email once you've enrolled.

This makes it easier and cheaper to purchase anything you chose not to bring with you.

Final tips before you fly

• Weigh your luggage twice.
  
• Label all your bags with your UK address.
  
• Keep your passport and visa where you can access them quickly.

A smooth, affordable move starts with smart packing. By bringing only the essentials, using self storage to manage overflow and planning ahead, you can save money and reduce stress.

At Pickfords, we’ve supported thousands of international students with their moves. Whether you need help with your removal or storage, our experienced team is here to support you every step of the way.

Explore our affordable self storage units near universities with flexible plans starting from £18.

Frequently asked questions

1. What should I pack as a student moving to the UK?

Focus on essentials: documents, clothes for the current season, personal care items and a few comforts from home. Leave the rest, you can buy them as you need in the UK. 

2. Are student shipping services reliable for international relocation?

You can rely on Pickfords for a safe, secure and affordable student shipping options, with flexible delivery.

3. Should I buy winter clothes after I arrive in the UK or get them from my home country?

It’s smarter to buy them in the UK, as the weather condition can be different from that in your home country and you may end up not utilising the winter clothes at all.  You’ll find better suited options for the local climate and often at student friendly prices.

4. Should I bring food from home?

A small stash of your favourite snacks is okay. UK is a multicultural country and you would find all items of need there. It is ideal to avoid packing large food quantities since they add weight and may be restricted.

5. How do I avoid overweight baggage charges when moving to the UK?

Use a weighing scale at home, pack strategically with vacuum bags and research airlines offering student relocation benefits.