Study Abroad in London Essentials

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Camera

 iPhone cameras aren’t that great. Especially if you’re like me, and your iPhone is several models old and can’t hold battery to save its life. Even a small, point and shoot camera will take much better-quality photos than iPhones. The one I got and recommend is a tiny grey Sony, the kind that was popular in roughly 2008. It cost me around £100, and its photos dazzle all of my Facebook friends.

Kindle

For travel, a Kindle is a must. They are affordable, small, and have a long battery life. Another plus is that it is compatible with apps like Libby, meaning that you can read eBooks from your library for free on it. As an avid reader, I was reluctant to get one for a while, in fear that it would ruin the reading experience for me. However, any effects on reading experience are worth the benefit of not having to lug a backpack full of books to London.

Lululemon Belt Bag

 I know, I know. £38 for a belt bag is expensive. But, hear me out. Lululemon belt bags specifically are sturdy and reliable. And, it is the perfect size; I am able to fit everything I need in it when I go out. Plus, the back compartment is easily accessible and small enough to perfectly fit an Oyster Card and key. Belt bags generally are much less annoying to carry around than purses, totes, or backpacks. And, their design makes it difficult for people to steal from you.

Apple Pay/Contactless Cards

Before you come to London, make sure you have set up Apple Pay and have contactless cards. Although these payment methods are not in as widespread use in the states, they are essential for London living. During my time in London, I have not once used any physical money. Most of the shops that I have encountered strongly prefer contactless cards or Apple Pay and many do not even accept cash. You can even use Apple Pay on the tube.

Foldable Grocery Bag

Even if you aren’t one to use reusable bags, you will want one in London. I specifically recommend the kind that easily folds into itself and will fit neatly into a Lululemon belt bag. If you forget a reusable bag for your weekly shop, it will cost you. Literally. Since the UK government cares about climate change and the environment, there is a minimum charge of 10p for single-use carrier bags in shops here. 

New Pair of Walking Shoes

The planning of cities in US and UK cities are very different. US cities are made to accommodate cars, and thus travelling by foot is rare and inefficient. However, in the UK, the cities are designed to privilege pedestrians. Therefore, walking to destinations is very common. While living in London, I have averaged 18,000 steps a day. One day, I even walked 17 miles. Therefore, I am very glad that I had the forethought to buy a new pair of New Balances before my trip. Having comfortable shoes with lots of tread is vital when you are walking so much; lots of my friends have complained about having foot pain due walking on old shoes.

Apps

CityMapper: This app is a lifesaver. It shows you the fastest way to get somewhere in London, including buses, trains, walking, biking, even scootering. And, if you’re directionally challenged like me, you’ll appreciate that the app tells you which platform to get on at the tube station and what time the relevant departures are at. This app is also helpful during strikes when routes are unpredictable, or when you’re trying to plan a journey in advance.

Trainline: If you want to go on excursions out of the city, Trainline is a must. You can use it to plan train journeys far in advance or soon, from a variety of stations and providers. They point out cheapest options including “SplitSave” meaning you have multiple tickets and pay a cheaper fare as a result. You can also purchase your tickets through it. I’ve honestly found buying tickets through Trainline to be much easier and more efficient than through the railways themselves.

Airalo: Gone are the days of frantically searching for a Sim Card upon arrival to Heathrow, or paying exorbitant rates through a U.S. provider for international service. Airalo allows you to select the region that you want service, the amount, and the duration. It connects to a local provider upon arrival to your destination. Personally, I paid $100 for 3 months of 50 gigabytes. I was able to download the sim the night before I flew to London, and it worked right after I landed. I haven’t had any issues with it, and I can’t say the same for my friends who used other methods.