Your Pre-Departure Checklist: 10 Things to Do Before You Fly

The moment you’ve been waiting for is finally here. Your admission letter is secure, your student visa is stamped, and a world of opportunity awaits you in the UK or the USA. The excitement is electrifying, but it’s often mixed with a touch of anxiety. What do you need to pack? Have you forgotten any important documents?

Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. At Tabula Rasa Travel Consultancy, we’ve guided countless Nigerian students through this exact journey. We’ve compiled the ultimate pre-departure checklist to ensure your transition is as smooth as possible.

Here are 10 essential things you must do before you fly.

 

1. Secure and Triple-Check Your Documents

 

This is the most critical step. Your documents are your passport to a new life, literally. Before you do anything else, gather, check, and make copies of everything.

• What to Check: Your international passport (with at least six months’ validity), student visa vignette, university admission letter, and your Certificate of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) for the UK or Form I-20 for the USA.
• Action Plan: Make at least two physical photocopies of each document. Keep one set in your check-in luggage and give another to your family in Nigeria. Most importantly, create a digital backup by scanning and saving everything to a secure cloud service like Google Drive or Dropbox.

 

2. Book Your Flight and Confirm Accommodation

 

Don’t leave this to the last minute, as flight prices can soar. Once your visa is confirmed, book your flight. Also, ensure your living arrangements are sorted before you land.

• Flights: Look for airlines with generous student baggage allowances. Book a flight that arrives during the day to make it easier to travel from the airport to your accommodation.
• Accommodation: Whether you’re staying in university halls or private housing, confirm your move-in date and time. Have the full address and the contact person’s number saved on your phone and written down.

 

3. Sort Out Your Finances

 

Arriving in a new country with no access to cash is a stressful start. Plan your finances carefully.

• Tuition & Fees: Ensure you have paid any required tuition deposits and have a clear plan for paying the remainder.
• Proof of Funds: Keep your proof of funds documentation handy, as you may be asked for it at the port of entry.
• Access to Money: It’s wise to have a mix of funds. Carry a small amount of cash in the local currency ($USD or £GBP) for immediate expenses like a taxi or a meal. Consider a prepaid travel card and inform your Nigerian bank that you will be using your cards abroad to avoid them being blocked.

 

4. Complete Health Checks and Get Vaccinated

 

Your health is your wealth, especially when you’re miles from home.

• Mandatory Tests: For students going to the UK, ensure you have completed your Tuberculosis (TB) test from an approved centre in Nigeria.
• Vaccinations & Records: Check if your university requires any specific vaccinations. Visit your doctor for a general check-up and get copies of your medical records and any necessary prescription medication (with a doctor’s note).

 

5. Pack Smart, Not Heavy

 

It’s tempting to pack your entire room, but resist the urge!

• Carry-on Essentials: Your hand luggage should contain your travel documents, laptop, phone, chargers, a change of clothes, any required medication, and some snacks.
• Check-in Luggage: Pack versatile clothing that you can layer. Remember, you can buy most things abroad. Don’t forget a universal travel adapter. Pack a few familiar items from home, like your favourite spice or a small keepsake, to help with homesickness.

 

6. Handle Your Academic Pre-Registration

 

Your academic journey begins before you even step on campus.

• Online Registration: Many universities require you to complete an online registration or module selection process before you arrive. Check your university portal and emails for instructions.
• Stay Connected: Join official university social media groups for international students. It’s a great way to ask questions and meet people before you arrive.

 

7. Plan Your Communication Strategy

 

How will you call your family to tell them you’ve landed safely?

• Unlock Your Phone: Ensure your current smartphone is unlocked so it can accept a foreign SIM card.
• Research SIMs: Research pay-as-you-go SIM card options available at your destination airport (e.g., Giffgaff/Lycamobile in the UK, T-Mobile/AT&T in the US).
• Stay in Touch: Make sure you have apps like WhatsApp installed to easily communicate with family and friends back home over Wi-Fi.

 

8. Do Your Cultural Homework

 

A little research goes a long way in helping you adapt quickly.

• Transportation: Learn about the public transport system. How does the London Tube work? What’s the best way to navigate the subway in New York?
• Customs & Etiquette: Understand basic social etiquette. Simple things like queuing, politeness (please and thank you), and tipping culture (especially in the USA) are important to know.

 

9. Finalise Your Arrival Plan

 

Know exactly what you will do once your flight lands.

• Airport to Accommodation: Have a clear plan. Will you take a university-arranged shuttle, a pre-booked taxi (like Uber/Bolt), or public transport?
• Emergency Contacts: Have the address of your accommodation and the contact number for your university’s international student office written down in a notebook in case your phone battery dies.

 

10. Say Your Goodbyes and Prepare Mentally

 

This is a huge, exciting step, and it’s okay to feel a mix of emotions.

• Spend Time with Loved Ones: The last few days can be hectic, but intentionally schedule quality time with family and friends. Eat your favourite Nigerian food and make lasting memories.
• Embrace the Journey: Understand that there will be challenges, but focus on the incredible adventure ahead. You are about to embark on a life-changing experience. Be proud of how far you’ve come.

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Embarking on your study abroad journey is a monumental achievement. By following this checklist, you can minimise stress and focus on the exciting new chapter ahead.

Feeling overwhelmed? Let us help you tick every box with confidence. Contact Tabula Rasa Travel Consultancy today for personalised guidance on your journey to academic success abroad. Contact us to get started!