This is an installment in a series of posts about moving to the UK for a Ph.D., specifically at Durham University.  To read more posts like this, see our list here.

You may be wondering what to pack and what to leave at home.  Here’s a list of things we are glad we packed (NB: we reserve the right to add others as we thing of them!)  We packed everything in our suitcases.  If it fits, it ships (by plane, to England).  Here’s what worked for us:

• Quality waterproof walking shoes–one of the best things we bought before coming over.  We spent a little extra money on a quality shoe.  But since we can easily walk 3-4 miles a day, it is worth it.  And waterproof–well, you are in England.  Take care of your feet and they’ll take care of you.
• Quality waterproof rain jacket.  We got lightweight jackets for everyone.  Layering up with a raincoat on top is the best way to go.
• Good quality walking socks.  You’ll be surprised at what a difference a good sock will make to your tired feet.
• Only 2 pairs of jeans.  Wear one, wash one.
• 1 pot, 1 pan, 1 lid.  You’d be amazed at what you can do with them.  And cookware is very expensive here.
• Kitchen knives.  Speaking of expensive…
• Our favorite kitchen spices: Tony Chachere’s, Tobasco Sauce, etc.
• Our OOMA phone with our US number.  See our post about OOMA here.
• Our measuring cups with both US and metric graduations
• Benadryl for our allergies  (believe it or not, it is hard to procure here)
• Robitussin DM
• Cheezits
• First-Aid Kit with all of our favorite comfort items for that sort of thing
• Ice cube trays–well, we didn’t pack these originally but had to have them brought over.  Ice is not common here and the good ol’ hard plastic trays are even rarer.  An ice maker?  I am not sure I’ve seen one yet.

Stay tuned for another post when we’ll share the things NOT to pack!