A Guide to Moving to London

London’s in your future, and you couldn’t be more excited about your move to London. You’ve booked your tickets to travel to the city, packed your bags, and are raring to go. As a student living in London, it will be a huge new chapter in your life, filled with experiences and education. Getting so wrapped up in everything can be easy once you arrive, and you may feel lost about what to do next.

Not to worry, though – we’ve compiled a quick guide on what you should do when you arrive in The Big Smoke. It’ll help you find your bearings and get everything sorted. Plus, if you’re staying with us at one of our locations, remember that our staff are on hand 24/7 to lend a helping hand.

Before You Move to London

There’s a lot to consider before your moving day arrives. Whether travelling in the country or taking a flight, organising things before you go will make life much easier. Let’s consider the basics:

1. Apply for your student visa: First and foremost, if you’re an international student, you must get your visa ready. Knowing how to apply for a student visa can help, but get this done as soon as possible! Discover more with our international student’s guide!
2. Research your accommodation: Next, or firstly for UK students, is to decide where you want to live. Moving to London means considering things like travel time to and from uni, what’s around the location you’re thinking, and so on.

What To Bring to London

Next up on the agenda is packing your things ready to go. The question is, just what should you bring with you? Let’s discuss the following:

1. Clothes: An obvious one, but consider the UK’s climate. Generally, it’s temperate, so you’ll want warm and cool weather options and comfy shoes for all the walking ahead.
2. Bedding and towels: Often forgotten until the day of arrival, these two essentials will help you make your accommodation feel more like home – and allow you to dry off after that refreshing post-travel shower.
3. Documents: Your passport, visa documents, university acceptance letter, and medical records – if you know you’ll need them, bring them with you and keep them safe.
4. Laptop and other tech: With plenty of writing and note-taking ahead of you, note-taking ahead, bringing a laptop will be essential. Additionally, other devices like a console or tablet can make your daily life more comfortable. Consider what you use most often and pack those items.

Managing the High Cost of Living as a Student in London

Like most popular capital cities, the glitz and glam don’t come without a price and London is no exception.

1. Budget: Living in London as a student, it’s essential you know how to budget at university. Having a weekly or monthly budget can help you manage grocery shopping, and bills and still have enough left over for fun things to do.
2. Purchase blankets and hot water bottles: Whether you’re moving from a foreign terrain or another part of the UK, you will need to be prepared for those chillier nights. To avoid putting the heating on, layer your bed with fluffy blankets to keep you well insulated and cuddle up with a hot water bottle.
3. Consider a part-time job: With its flurry of shops, bars and restaurants, London has many work opportunities for students. As well as earning you extra cash, it’s a fantastic way to meet people in your new home. Explore our guide, on how to apply for a job for more inspiration.
4. Find free things to do: Explore world-class museums like the British Museum or the Natural History Museum, where you can dive into fascinating exhibits without spending a penny. Fancy a walk? Wander through Hyde Park or along the South Bank for stunning views of the city. Don’t forget to see the iconic 10 Downing Street, a must-visit when in the capital. For more inspiration, explore free things to do around Westminster.

Things To Do When You Arrive in London as a Student

Now you’re in London, unpacked and set up in your room; it’s time to get things sorted and get stuck into UK life. Here’s what to do after moving to London – feel free to use this as a checklist!

1. Register with a doctor: Getting a doctor, or a GP as they’re often called, set up in the UK is very important. Student health services exist, but getting access usually requires having a registered doctor. Your university can also help you find one.
2. Open a UK bank account: Another important step, this will make life easier for you when it comes to paying for things while in the country. For steps on opening an account, read how to open a student bank account.
3. Go to orientation events: It may seem like a no-brainer, but orientation is a great time to learn who you’ll study with and where everything is at your uni.
4. Sign up for societies and clubs: Another great way to meet people at uni and make friends in London. They also offer excellent opportunities to pursue your hobbies and develop new skills.
5. Get acquainted with public transport: With its iconic red buses and the extensive tube network, getting around the city is a breeze. Whether you’re hopping on a bus to take in the sights or zipping across town on the Underground, London’s transport system makes exploring the city easy and convenient. For more information, read your guide to navigating Zone 1.
6. Try out different eateries: London is a food lover’s paradise with an incredible range of eateries to explore. From charming cafes to street food markets and international restaurants, there’s always something new to taste. Sampling the local cuisine is not only delicious but also a great way to discover different parts of the city.

It’s a big step to take, and a lot of change comes with the territory, but if you stick to the pointers in this guide, you’ll find your move to London should go smoother than expected. Remember: You’ve got a lot of studying ahead and a lot of exciting things to get stuck into, so don’t worry about every little detail in between. Get out there and have fun!

Discover our Student Accommodation in London if you haven’t yet booked your stay.