Advice for international students

Mastering the UK weather requires prioritising proper gear and preparing for sudden rain showers and colder temperatures.

1. Wardrobe

✅ Waterproofs over umbrellas: Invest in a proper, high-quality waterproof jacket. A sturdy waterproof bag is equally important to keep your laptop and notebooks dry when walking around campus.

✅ Layering: Don't rely on just one coat. Wear a breathable T-shirt base, followed by a hoodie or jumper, and top with your waterproof or heavy winter coat to keep you warm outside.

✅ Proper footwear: Puddles are everywhere! Invest in reliable, waterproof shoes rather than ruining your Nike Air Force 1s! 

✅ Accessories: When the temperature drops, a warm beanie, thick scarf and gloves are non-negotiable.

2. Coping with the Winter Blues

✅ Vitamin D: The sun can set as early as 3:30pm or 4pm in winter. Consider taking Vitamin D supplements to compensate for the lack of sunlight, which also helps keep your immune system strong.

✅ Get outside: We understand that it's gonna be cold, but staying in your room or in your bed all day isn't going to be good for your mental wellbeing. Force yourself to wrap up warm and go out during the day, even if it's just a small walk around campus.

3. Living Spaces & Health

✅ Heating: Most student accommodations rely on central heating set on timers. On exceptionally cold nights, invest in a hot water bottle.

✅ Staying active: Walk or cycle to your lectures and get involved in university clubs to stay warm and connected during the colder months.

✅ Support: Check out our support options here. Don't hesitate to use these services if the weather or homesickness impacts your mental health.

UK and its seasons

🍂 Spring/Autumn: Pack breathable, light clothing for spring and fall, like long-sleeved shirts, lightweight jackets, and trousers. Temperatures can range massively in these seasons.

☀️ Summer: Again, the temperatures can range a lot, going from mild winds to UV 7 kind of days. For comfort in the sun, bring shorts, T-shirts, light dresses and breathable materials.

❄️ Winter: The UK's winter is very chilly and wet, so layer up! Warm clothing like sweaters, scarves, gloves and thick coats is essential. To keep your feet toasty, don't forget to bring thick, cosy socks as well as boots.

It's thrilling and exciting starting a new path in the UK, but you have to remember to pack appropriately for the weather conditions!