Pembroke College Cambridge

What to Pack

We recommend that you pack as lightly as possible! You'll need to transport your luggage from the airport to your room in Cambridge and back, and unfortunately elevators are scarce both in London's public transport system and in Cambridge.

We're sure you'll buy additional items and souvenirs during your time in Cambridge, so leave room in your luggage to take them back!

Clothing

The weather in the UK can be quite varied in the summer, from warm days to chilly evenings (and even a rainy day or two!) so it's best to be prepared. 

Alongside what you would normally travel with, you should bring:

  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • A waterproof jacket
  • A light jacket
  • A smart outfit for Formal Hall, such as:
    • A suit (or at least a shirt and tie)
    • A cocktail dress
    • Something suitable for a formal occasion
  • Sportswear (if you want to take part in any sports activities)

Toiletries

Toiletries are affordable and easy to get hold of in the UK, so you won't need to pack large amounts to travel with. 

Medication

You should bring enough of any medication you need to last you for the duration of the programme and you should carry these in your hand luggage when travelling. You should also make sure that any medication you take in your home country is also legal in the UK before travelling.

Bedding

There's no need to bring this with you. We'll provide you with a sheet, pillow, pillow case, duvet and duvet cover as well as a bath towel. We'll also change your bedding each week. 

Travel Documents

Make copies of your passport, travel insurance and flight details and keep them safe and separate form the originals. If you have government approved photo ID, bring this and use it while in the UK instead of your passport.

Electronic Devices

Any electronic devices you bring with you will need to comply with UK health and safety regulations. We'll Portable Appliance Test (PAT) anything you bring with you early in the programme and if your device doesn't meet these regulations, we will remove it from your room and return it at the end of the programme.

If you're using devices from outside of the UK, you'll also need to bring a travel adaptor with you. 

Money

Pembroke College, along with many locations in the UK, is cashless. This means you will need to pay for many goods and services with a credit or debit card and cash won't be accepted.

We strongly recommend you have a suitable Chip and PIN travel card before arriving in the UK, with contactless technology as well. Pembroke College along with many other locations also do not accept magnetic swipe/signed for cards.

There are several online banks nowadays that offer bank accounts without fees for using your card abroad, so be sure to be prepared before you travel! 

What if I forget something?

Don't worry, you will be able to buy most things you need when you get to the UK.