Philosophy, Politics and Law in Britain

- What to Pack, and What to Leave Behind

Don't Get Caught Without ...

A Good Umbrella

While the rain in other European countries may fall mainly on the, err, well, you know, the rain in England falls everywhere. How to deal with this type of weather shouldn't be a surprise to you after Binghamton, so you know the value of a good umbrella and waterproof jacket. Bring them. They'll make you happy.

Sensible Shoes

I know, it sounds boring, but you need at least one pair of comfortable hiking boots or sneakers. The English walk far more than Americans, and the Norwich bus system, though convenient, isn't free to students, like good old BCC. In addition, you'll be walking a lot if you do any amount of travelling on the Continent.

A Walkman/Discman

If you're serious about music, this will be your savior. It helps make long train and bus trips infinitely more bearable, and, if you have the proper adapters and a pair of mini-speakers, it can function as a substitute for a stereo in your dorm room. Another option is to purchase an inexpensive stereo locally. There is a used electronics store in Norwich, and you can sell back what you buy when you leave.

A Ton of T-shirts, Underwear, and Socks

Let's face it, laundry sucks. It sucks even harder at UEA, because there is one laundry room on campus, and it's conveniently located so as to maximize the distance between it and every dorm on campus. As all college students know, as long as you have the aforementioned three essential items of clothing, you've got an outfit, so bring a lot. Besides, you won't be dressing up much, so you'll have room in your bags.

Film and Camera Batteries

Film is expensive enough as it is, and it's even pricier in Europe. Same with camera batteries, particularly if your camera requires a camera-specific type of power cell, as opposed to a couple of AA's or AAA's. You'll want to chronicle every instant of your adventures, so buy your photographic needs before leaving the U.S.

NyQuil

It isn't sold in England, and if you get sick, you know that you'll want some. 'Nuff said.

Twinkies

They aren't sold in England either, and every loyal American needs snack cakes.

Don't Even Think About Bringing ...

Too Many Clothes

You won't need nearly as many clothes as you think, so pack light. Remember to take layers-sweaters, a light jacket-but NOT a heavy coat. Inexpensive used-clothing stores abound on the off-chance you forgot something vital.

Anything Electronic

With the possible exception of electric razors and laptop computers with a 210V switch, all the American electronic equipment that students on the first year of the program brought to England promptly exploded upon contact with the irregular and more powerful European current. One clock radio reacted to its abrupt encounter with two hundred and ten volts so violently that it began to belch smoke and blue flame, at which point the understandably disturbed student threw it out an open window. If your electronic aren't FAA certified, leave them at home, because adapters are chancy at best, and, according to a reputable British source, the current in England can vary between 180V and 320V depending entirely upon the mood of the Queen. It's just not worth it.

Linens

They take up precious space in your suitcase, and many stores in Norwich sell them at inexpensive rates. The sheets that are offered for sale through the UEA Housing Office are, to put it bluntly, a complete rip-off, so take a trip into town on the first day and pick up some sheets and towels at either Woolworth's or Mark's and Spencer's.

A Large Number of "Dress-up" outfits

You won't be attending any formal balls, and, unless you're outrageously lucky, you won't get a chance to have an audience with the Queen or Prime Minister. So don't go overboard with the nice clothes. They don't travel well, they generally require ironing, (which is difficult without an iron) and you'll look more than a bit funny walking around campus in your prom dress. One or two nice outfits are sufficient, and will enable you to go to a nice dinner or the theatre every so often. In addition, despite the stereotype of the "proper Englishman," British students are casual, and you don't want to stick out.