After a somewhat restrictive first year at the university, I took many take away with me as I packed to go back home. There was a lot that needed to be done before leaving, and here are a few tips that might be useful for international students as they prepare to head back home.

1. Storage facilities for students: as international students, we need to find a good storage facility to store the stuff we will not take back home.
   1. The first thing you should do is sort through all your belongings and pack them with a checklist that records them box-wise. The list will help you cross-check the items once you return and reclaim them. And it will also help you choose the right locker size for you.
   2. Look for a good storage facility. I have used Kangaroo Storage and found it safe and reliable. The rent fee includes a small amount of insurance, and the facility also offers a student discount. In addition to that, you can buy a padlock for additional safety. The staff is also very kind and helpful.
   3. Depending on the number of boxes/ bags you need to store, you might need a mover to help you with the shifting on the storage day. I recommend Man & Van (but please ensure that you contact them well in advance of the moving day)
2. A COVID-19 negative test: The university sets up a few testing centers; hence, kindly check with them. But when I decided to travel back home, I had to get the test done via Boots. The test results are usually uploaded on the portal within 24h-48h of testing.
3. Communication with the university. Ensure that you inform your respective school, advisor of studies, residence team (if you are in university accommodation), and international immigration team about your travel plans to keep your records with the university updated.
4. Lastly, don’t forget to end your accommodation contract before you leave!

I hope you all have a safe journey!