Tips from a 2nd year undergraduate student 👩‍🎓

As an international student, or a student in general, trying to pack your entire life into two or three suitcases is nearly impossible. Trust me, I’ve been there. So instead of overpacking or worrying about what you might miss, here’s my honest advice on the things you’ll definitely want as a student at LSE.

Things You Can’t Live Without in Halls 🛌

Brita jug / water filter

As someone who isn’t a huge fan of UK tap water, I can confidently say that having a Brita jug truly saved my life. It makes a huge difference, especially in your day-to-day routine.

Flip-flops

This might seem like common sense, but you’d be surprised how many people forget them. If you’re in a shared accommodation, you’ll need a pair, like for walking around communal areas or, in my case, sprinting out of your room at 3 AM during an unexpected fire alarm.

Medicine kit

Be prepared for the inevitable first-year cold. Bring whatever medicine you’d typically use at home. Trust me, Tylenol and Lemsip will become your best friends.

Comfort items

Whether it’s your favourite blanket, childhood plush toy, or printed photos from home, a small reminder of home goes a long way on tough days.

Clothes (but not your entire wardrobe)

Please don’t try to bring everything you own. Focus on your favourite, most comfortable pieces. Prepare for every weather because this is London after all.

Essentials for Studying 📚

Halls can be noisy, especially when you are three lectures behind and someone’s throwing a party next door. Do yourself a favour and bring a pair of earplugs and noise-canceling headphones.

Both will save your life when you're trying to revise, study, or just get some peace and quiet.

Essentials for Living in London ☔️

Reusable tote bags

Yes, they’re great for sustainability, but they’re also practical for running errands, hauling groceries, or using one as a backup laundry bag when your basket is overflowing.

Umbrella

It will rain in London, and your umbrella will break at some point. Still, you’ll need one from the very first day you arrive. If you manage to get a sturdy one, try and train yourself not to lose it to the UK's wind (a true challenge).

Social Survival Kit 🎉

Comfort food from home

I know I said don’t try to bring your whole life with you but comfort food is the exception. On those lazy days when you don’t feel like going out or cooking, you’ll be so glad you packed your favourite snacks or instant meals. With UK weather being as unpredictable as it is, it's always wise to have something to eat in your room.

Say “yes”… and “no”

In your first year, it’s easy to get swept up in everything and feel like you have to say “yes” to every invite or opportunity. And while it’s great to try new things, it’s also important to prioritise good friends and a healthy lifestyle.

At the same time, don’t shut yourself off. Saying “no” to everything means missing out on discovering what you like and what you don’t. Balance is key.

In the second year (or any year), don’t just stay cooped up in your room worrying about academics. The year flies by. Join societies, get involved, and give yourself permission to enjoy the limited time you have at LSE.

Don't Forget ‼️

At the end of the day, don’t stress too much about what to bring or buy. We’re lucky to live in a world with next-day delivery and online shopping. What really shapes your time at LSE isn’t whether you packed your favourite sneakers or your softest blanket, it’s the people you meet and the small choices you make along the way. So pack light, stay open, and don’t worry too much because you will figure it out along the way, just like the rest of us.