What to Bring

We recommend that you do not bring too much luggage with you, as many airlines will charge you a fee for additional bags and these charges can be very high.  You will be tempted to bring all you will need for the year (or more) but it is often cheaper to buy what you will need when in the UK.

What should I wear?

The UK weather can be very changeable; therefore it is a good idea to pack light clothes that can be worn in layers. Some warm outer clothing and a waterproof are also essential. Thick socks, gloves and scarves can be bought very cheaply when in the UK. 

Located in the North East of Britain, Durham can be a lot colder than further south, but with more sunshine than the national average, cold days can also be sunny ones. Please see the BBC weather pages for more information on up to date weather conditions in Durham.

How much money should I bring with me?

It is essential that you have sufficient funds to cover any expenses during the first few days in Britain but we would recommend that you bring no more than £400 in cash or preferably Traveller’s Cheques for your living costs for the first few weeks. For your own safety we advise you not to travel to the UK with large amounts of cash.

Electrical Appliances 

For safety reasons, electric appliance adaptors are not allowed in University residences.  Please do not use your electrical equipment in the residences unless you have an undamaged British cable with a 3 pin plug, this must be stamped BS1363 to connect to the electrical supply.

Electrical equipment can only be used in university residences if connected by a UK cable. Some electrical equipment, such as computer lap tops, mobile phones etc. have separate cables for connecting to the electrical supply. It is possible to buy separate cables in the UK in order to use your electric equipment safely in your college. 

Please note: the electricity supply in the UK has a much higher voltage than in some countries outside Europe.  It is therefore very important that electrical appliances are used safely -as an electric shock can be fatal!

Your Luggage 

Remember to label all your luggage with your full name, College address and the address of your accommodation (if different from your College address). If you are shipping your luggage to the UK you must complete a Customs Form. 

Sharp objects, scissors, razor blades and fluids should be stored in your hold luggage as these are strictly prohibited in your hand luggage. Please check individual airlines for current guidelines.

Please note: the University is unable to store any luggage sent in advance of your arrival. 

What not to bring 

• Please do not bring any meat, milk, animal or plant products into the UK. These rules are essential to protect the environment, reducing the risk of animal and plant diseases being brought to the UK. Banned imports will be taken from you so please see the following link for more information on current restrictions: www.food.gov.uk/foodindustry/imports/
• Do not pack anything of great value. ie. jewellery, unless essential.
• Further Customs restrictions include live animals, cigarettes and alcohol, weapons, drugs etc.

Please note: you must declare amounts of cash, banker’s drafts and/or cheques of any kind brought into the UK over 10,000 Euros.