Creating a packing list for international students heading to a UK boarding school is crucial to ensure they have everything they need for a comfortable and successful school year. Here’s a comprehensive list to help students prepare:

Essential Documents & Clothing:
✔ Passport and visa (BRP Card for returning students, CAS Letter and TB test for new students)
✔ Travel tickets (airplane, train, etc.) – School admission letter and related documents
✔ Medical records and immunization certificates
✔ Health and travel insurance documents
✔ Emergency contact list including the guardianship contact details
✔ Copies of all important documents (keep a set with you and leave one at home)
✔ School uniform, casual clothes (jeans, t-shirts, sweaters, etc.), formal outfit (for special events)
✔ Night wear, underwear, shoes (casual shoes, formal shoes, sports shoes, slippers) and socks
✔ Sports clothing and footwear (including swimwear if needed)
✔ Warm coat/jacket (waterproof), raincoat, umbrella, gloves, scarves, and hats (for winter)

Bedding & Room Items:
✔ Bed sheets and pillowcases (check with school if provided)
✔ Duvet and duvet cover (if not provided)
✔ Pillow (if preferred over what might be provided)
✔ Towels (bath and hand towels)
✔ Laundry bag
✔ Clothes hangers
✔ Desk lamp (if not provided)
✔ Alarm clock
✔ Photos or small personal items to decorate and personalize space

Sample sized Toiletries:
(Note: Buy full-size toiletries during weekend school or guardian grocery trips, as they are otherwise too heavy.)
✔ Toothbrush and toothpaste
✔ Shampoo and conditioner
✔ Body wash or soap
✔ Deodorant
✔ Hairbrush or comb
✔ Skincare products
✔ Menstrual products (if applicable)
✔ Shaving supplies (if applicable)
✔ Personal hygiene items
✔ Small first aid kit

Study Supplies & Electronics:
✔ Notebooks and folders
✔ Pens, pencils, erasers, and highlighters
✔ Calculator (as allowed for use in school)
✔ Laptop and charger (if allowed and necessary)
✔ USB flash drives
✔ Dictionary and other essential books (check with school for specific requirements)
✔ Mobile phone and charger
✔ Adapters and converters for UK outlets
✔ Headphones or earbuds
✔ E-reader or tablet (if used for reading or note-taking)

Miscellaneous & Optional:
✔ Reusable water bottle
✔ Snacks or comfort food (especially if there are any favorites that might not be available in the UK)
✔ Small sewing kit
✔ Locks for luggage
✔ Sports equipment (like rackets, if actively participating in sports)
✔ Musical instruments (if the student plays and the school does not provide them)
✔ Bicycle (if applicable and desired for getting around larger campuses or nearby areas)

Tips
• Double-check your airline’s luggage limits. Don’t forget to label all belongings with the student’s name and school address.
• Consider the UK’s seasonal weather changes, pack accordingly for colder and wetter conditions.
• Verify with the boarding school for any specific items that are provided, prohibited, or recommended.