Packing for a two-week Cambridge summer school is a balance: you want to be prepared, but you don’t want to drag a heavy suitcase across airports.
This checklist is built for students aged 14–17 and focuses on what actually matters:
- what to pack for UK weather
- what to keep in hand luggage
- what documents under-18 travellers should carry
- what people forget (every year)
The one packing rule that saves you (UK weather edition)
The UK can feel like “four seasons in one day”. Pack in layers:
- a light jumper
- a waterproof outer layer
- comfortable shoes you can walk in all day
(If you’re doing excursions, you’ll be walking more than you expect.)
Hand luggage checklist (do not check these items)
This is the most important part: if your checked bag is delayed, hand luggage keeps the trip smooth.
A useful reference is UCL’s checklist, which explicitly recommends keeping your passport, confirmation letter, financial evidence, UK accommodation address, and tickets in hand luggage.
Hand luggage essentials
- Passport (and visa vignette/BRP details if applicable)
- Programme confirmation / acceptance letter
- UK accommodation address + emergency contacts
- Travel itinerary (flight details)
- Financial evidence (if relevant)
- Parental consent letter (recommended for under-18s, especially if travelling alone)
- Phone + charger + power bank
- A jumper / light waterproof (helps if you land in rain/cold)
- Any medication you might need (with prescription copies)
Documents for under-18 travellers (keep copies)
Official UK guidance for under-18 visitors emphasises:
- suitable arrangements for travel and stay
- written consent from a parent/guardian if travelling alone
Practical tip: carry both
- 1 printed set of key documents
- 1 digital set (PDFs on your phone + shared with a parent)
Clothing list (2-week Cambridge programme)
Aim for mix-and-match outfits.
Daily wear
- 7–10 tops (t-shirts + long sleeves)
- 2–3 trousers/jeans
- 1–2 hoodies/jumpers
- 1 waterproof jacket
- 1 light jacket
- underwear + socks for 14 days (or plan laundry)
Shoes
- 1 comfortable walking shoe (must)
- 1 “smart” shoe (optional, but helpful)
One smart outfit (worth bringing)
Cambridge college events can include formal dinners. Pembroke College’s “What to pack” guidance, for example, specifically mentions bringing a smart outfit for Formal Hall.
You don’t need anything extreme — just something you feel confident wearing at a formal event.
Sportswear
- trainers
- shorts/leggings
- one sports top (if you plan activities)
Toiletries and health (keep it simple)
- toothbrush/toothpaste
- deodorant
- shampoo/shower gel (travel size if flying carry-on)
- sunscreen (yes, still useful)
- basic first aid items (plasters, pain relief you’re used to)
If you take prescription medication, bring:
- medication in original packaging
- a doctor’s note / prescription copy
Tech and study items
Tech
- UK plug adapter
- phone charger + spare cable
- power bank
- optional: small laptop/tablet (depends on programme)
Study
- notebook + pen
- any pre-reading materials you were sent
Money and connectivity
- bank card (enable international use)
- a small amount of GBP cash for first day (snacks, small purchases)
- eSIM/SIM plan (or confirm your roaming)
Optional but helpful
- compact umbrella
- reusable water bottle
- small day backpack (for excursions)
- laundry bag (keeps your room tidy)
Common packing mistakes (and how to avoid them)
- Overpacking “just in case”
Stick to layers and re-wearable basics. - Forgetting the UK adapter
It’s the #1 small item that causes big annoyance. - Putting documents in checked luggage
Hand luggage is non-negotiable for passport/letters/contacts. - No smart outfit at all
If there’s a formal dinner, you’ll want something suitable.
FAQ
What should I definitely keep in my hand luggage?
Passport, programme confirmation letter, accommodation address, flight details, and key supporting documents. UCL’s checklist includes these items explicitly.
Do under-18 students need a parental consent letter?
UK guidance says under-18 visitors should have written consent from a parent/guardian if travelling alone, and show suitable arrangements for travel and stay.
Do I need a formal outfit?
Many Cambridge college events are formal. A Cambridge college packing guide (Pembroke) recommends bringing a smart outfit suitable for Formal Hall.
How many shoes should I bring?
One strong walking shoe is essential; a second, smarter option is useful but optional.