20 Tips You Need to Survive in England

Tips for surviving in England encompass navigating daily life amidst various experiences and challenges.

Whether you’re visiting bustling cities, exploring picturesque countryside, or starting a new life, understanding local customs and British etiquette is crucial.

In this article, you’ll find practical advice on planning your trip, getting around efficiently, and fitting in seamlessly.

Prepare to embrace everything England has to offer and make the most of your time, whether you’re staying short-term or long-term.

Read on to learn how to survive and enjoy every moment in this charming and historic country, ensuring a confident and fantastic experience.

1. Bring Some Local Foods From Your Home Country

Tip to survive in England – bring some local food from home country

When planning your move to England as an immigrant or student, one of the key tips for surviving in England is to think about bringing some of your favorite foods with you.

This includes considering foods to eat every day that are familiar and comforting.

Having familiar food from home can make you feel more comfortable and less homesick.

Bringing some non-perishable foods, like canned goods, dried fruits, nuts, and spices, is a good idea.

These foods don’t spoil quickly and can be easily packed in your luggage.

They can provide you with quick and easy meals or snacks when you’re busy settling in or adjusting to a new routine.

Having these foods on hand means you won’t have to worry about cooking or finding a grocery store right away.

Additionally, bringing some of your favorite snacks or ingredients can make your transition smoother.

You might not find all the same foods in England that you have at home, and it can take time to find new favorites.

Having a small supply of familiar foods can help you feel more at ease and give you a sense of home while you explore and get used to English cuisine.

2. Have Some British Pounds With You

Tip to survive in England – have some British pounds with you

It’s a good idea to bring some British pounds with you, which is the currency used in England.

One of the essential tips for surviving in England is having cash on hand to pay for things like transportation, food, and other essentials when you first arrive. 

You can exchange your home currency for British pounds at a bank or currency exchange before you leave.

Once you’re in England, you’ll need to set up a bank account if you’re staying for a while.

Having a local bank account will make it easier to manage your money, pay bills, and receive any income, like wages from a job or money from home.

Many banks in England offer accounts specifically for students and newcomers, so look for one that suits your needs.

You’ll need some identification, like your passport, and proof of address, such as a letter from your school or landlord, to open an account.

It’s also important to be careful with your spending.

Keep track of how much money you have and what you’re spending it on.

Using a budget can help you make sure you have enough money for essentials like rent, food, and transportation.

Also, remember that prices in England might be different from what you’re used to, so take some time to learn the cost of things like groceries and public transportation.

Being smart with your money will help you feel more secure and make your transition to life in England smoother.

3. Ensure You Have a Smartphone

Tip to survive in England – ensure you have a smart phone

Having a smartphone is very important is one of the essential tips for surviving in England.

It can help you in so many ways as you settle into your new life.

A smartphone keeps you connected with family and friends back home through calls, texts, and social media.

It’s also a handy tool for staying in touch with new friends and classmates in England.

One of the most useful features of a smartphone is its ability to access GPS and Google Maps.

These tools are incredibly helpful for finding your way around unfamiliar places.

If you need to get to your new school, a grocery store, or a friend’s house, you can use your phone to get directions.

Google Maps can show you the quickest route and even give you information about public transportation options like buses and trains.

A smartphone is also great for managing daily tasks and accessing important information.

You can use it to check the weather, look up bus schedules, find local restaurants, and even translate languages if you’re having trouble understanding something.

Many useful apps can help you with shopping, banking, and studying.

Having a smartphone makes navigating your new life in England much easier and helps you feel more confident and prepared.

To further enhance your confidence, consider these tips on how to build self-confidence, which can be instrumental in adjusting to a new environment.

4. Get the Right Document

Tip to survive in England – get the right document

This is essential for living, working, and moving around England.

One of the most important documents you’ll need is the Biometric Residence Permit (BRP).

The BRP shows that you have permission to stay in the UK and includes information like your name, date of birth, and immigration status.

As soon as you arrive in England, you should collect your BRP if you haven’t already.

You usually pick it up at a post office or another specified location.

Having your BRP is important because you’ll need it to prove your right to be in the UK, whether you’re applying for a job, renting a place to live, or opening a bank account.

It’s like an ID card that confirms you are allowed to be in the country and do certain activities.

In addition to the BRP, you might need other documents, such as your passport, visa, and any letters from your school or employer.

Keep these documents safe and make copies just in case.

Having all the necessary documents ready will make your life in England much easier.

It will help you avoid any problems and ensure you can work, study, and move around without any issues.

5. Understand the Tax System in England

Tip to survive in England – understand the tax system in England

Understanding taxes is important because there are different types you’ll need to pay.

One of the main taxes is Income Tax, which you pay on the money you earn from your job.

Your employer usually takes this out of your paycheck before you get paid, so you don’t have to worry about paying it yourself each month.

This tax helps pay for public services like schools and hospitals.

Another type of tax you might need to pay is Council Tax.

This is a local tax used to pay for services in your area, like keeping the streets clean, collecting waste bins, and maintaining public parks.

If you rent or own a home, you’ll get a bill from your local council each month or year.

The amount you pay depends on the value of your property and the services provided in your area.

You also pay VAT (Value Added Tax) on most goods and services you buy, like clothes, electronics, and dining out.

The price you see on items in stores usually includes this tax, so you don’t need to add it yourself.

It’s important to budget for these different taxes because they are a regular part of living in England.

Knowing about them and planning for them will help you manage your money better and avoid any surprises.

6. Plan Strategically

Tip to survive in England – plan strategically

This helps you think ahead and make smart choices about how you spend your money.

So you can live comfortably without running out of money too quickly.

First, create a budget that includes all your essential expenses like rent, food, transportation, and bills.

Make a list of your monthly income and compare it to your expenses.

This will help you see how much money you have left for other things.

Be sure to set aside some money for savings and emergencies.

Having a budget helps you stay on track and ensures you have enough money for the important things.

To get started with budgeting and financial management, check out this guide on how to be smart with money in your 20s.

Next, be mindful of your spending habits.

It’s easy to be tempted by new things and spend money on items you don’t really need.

Before making a purchase, ask yourself if it’s something necessary or just a want.

Planning your meals and making a shopping list can help you avoid buying too much food that might go to waste.

Look for sales and discounts and consider buying second-hand items when possible.

By planning strategically and spending wisely, you’ll be able to enjoy your time in England without financial stress.

7. Ensure You Are Covered

Tip to survive in England – ensure health cover

If you are a student, you usually need to pay for health insurance before you come to England.

This is often included as part of your visa application, and it gives you access to the National Health Service (NHS), which provides healthcare to residents and visitors.

As a student, paying for health insurance means you can see a doctor, get prescriptions, and receive emergency treatment without worrying about high costs.

It’s a smart way to ensure you are covered if you get sick or injured.

The NHS is known for providing good quality care and having health insurance will help you feel secure knowing you can get help if you need it.

If you are moving to England to work as a doctor, nurse, or social worker, you usually don’t have to pay for health insurance separately.

Healthcare workers often have their health coverage provided by the NHS as part of their job.

This means you can access medical services without extra costs.

No matter what your reason for moving, understanding how health insurance works and making sure you have the right coverage will help you stay healthy and safe while living in England.

Additionally, it is beneficial to create a personal mental health action plan to ensure you maintain your well-being in your new environment.

8. Understand the Parent-Child Relationship Rules and Customs

Tip to survive in England – understand the parent-child relationship customs

Understanding the parent-child relationship is important because the rules and customs might be different from what you’re used to.

In England, it’s not acceptable to scold your child harshly or be very loud with them in public.

This kind of behavior can be seen as inappropriate or even harmful.

Instead, it’s important to use positive and gentle ways to guide your child.

Try talking to them calmly and explaining why their behavior is not okay.

Encourage good behavior by praising them when they do something right.

Setting clear and consistent rules at home can help your child understand what is expected of them.

This way, they learn how to behave without needing to be scolded.

If you find it challenging to manage your child’s behavior, there are many resources available to help.

Schools often have counselors who can offer advice, and there are parenting classes that can teach you new techniques.

By using positive discipline and seeking support when needed, you can build a strong and healthy relationship with your child while respecting the cultural norms in England.

This will help both you and your child feel more comfortable and happier in your new environment.

For more insights on building and maintaining strong relationships, check out these facts about relationships.

9. Know the Laws and Regulations

Tip to survive in England – know the rules

Knowing the laws and regulations helps you stay out of trouble and live peacefully.

England has specific rules that everyone needs to follow and understanding these will make your life much easier.

For example, you need to follow traffic rules, like driving on the left side of the road and obeying speed limits.

Another important thing to know is that England has strict rules about littering and recycling.

Always throw your trash in the proper bins and recycle whenever possible.

Certain behaviors, such as being noisy in public or disturbing neighbors, are rude and can lead to trouble with local authorities.

It’s also important to respect laws about drinking alcohol and smoking.

You need to be 18 or older to buy alcohol or cigarettes, and there are designated areas where you can smoke.

By learning and following these laws and regulations, you show respect for your new community and ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable experience living in England.

If you’re ever unsure about a rule, don’t hesitate to ask someone or look it up to stay informed and safe.

10. Dress in Layers

Tip to survive in England – dress in layers

The weather in England often changes quickly and can be quite different from what you’re used to.

Preparing with the right clothing will help you stay comfortable and healthy.

First, it’s a good idea to dress in layers. This means wearing a t-shirt, a sweater, and a jacket so you can add or remove layers as the weather changes.

England can be chilly, especially in the mornings and evenings, even in the summer.

In the winter, it can get very cold, so having a warm coat, gloves, and a hat is essential.

Layers help you stay warm when it’s cold and cool down when it gets warmer.

Another important item to have is a good waterproof jacket or raincoat.

England is known for its frequent rain, and it can rain at any time of the year.

Carrying a small, foldable umbrella in your bag is also a smart idea.

Waterproof shoes or boots can keep your feet dry on rainy days.

By dressing appropriately for the weather, you can enjoy your time in England without being uncomfortable or getting sick.

11. Master the Tone of Communication

Tip to survive in England – communicate politely

People in England generally prefer a polite and calm way of speaking.

One of the key tips for surviving in England is to communicate your thoughts and feelings respectfully, whether you’re talking to friends, teachers, or new acquaintances. 

Being polite helps you build good relationships and makes it easier to fit in.

One key point is to avoid raising your voice or shouting when you’re upset or trying to make a point.

Instead, try to stay calm and explain your thoughts clearly and respectfully. Using phrases like “please,” “thank you,” and “excuse me” is very common and shows good manners.

If you disagree with someone, it’s best to express your opinion politely without being rude or aggressive.

Additionally, listening is an important part of good communication.

Practicing compassionate listening can enhance your interactions by showing genuine interest and understanding when someone else is speaking. 

Nod and make eye contact to demonstrate your engagement.

By being polite, respectful, and a good listener, you’ll find it easier to make friends, resolve conflicts, and feel more comfortable in your new environment in England.

12. Learn the British Culture

Tip to survive in England – learn the British culture

It’s so common to see people smiling, saying “thank you,” and greeting each other with a “hello” or “good morning” in England.

One of the key tips for surviving in England is learning these customs, as they will help you fit in and make a good impression on others. 

Always remember to say “please” and “thank you” when asking for something or receiving help.

These simple words show respect and appreciation, and they are an important part of everyday conversations.

For example, when you buy something in a store, say “thank you” to the cashier.

When someone holds the door open for you, say “thank you” as well. These small gestures go a long way in showing good manners.

Greetings are a big part of British culture.

When you meet someone new or see a friend, it’s polite to say “hello” or “hi.”

If you’re meeting someone for the first time, a handshake and a smile are a good way to start.

In more casual situations, like passing someone in the hallway at school or on the street, a simple smile or nod can be a friendly gesture.

By following these cultural tips and learning how to be polite and respectful, you’ll find it easier to make friends and feel more comfortable in your new surroundings in England.

13. Know How to Use Public Transportation

Tip to survive in England – know how to use public transportation

England has a well-developed network of buses, trains, and the famous London Underground (also known as the Tube).

To make the most of this system, one of the essential tips for surviving in England is knowing how to use public transportation effectively.

This will help you get around the city easily and efficiently, whether you’re going to school, exploring new places, or visiting friends.

You’ll need to understand how to use an Oyster Card or contactless payment for transportation, especially in London.

An Oyster Card is a smart card that you can load with money and use to pay for your bus, train, or Tube rides.

You simply tap the card on the card reader when you start and finish your journey.

Using an Oyster Card or a contactless bank card makes traveling on public transport much cheaper and more convenient than buying individual tickets each time.

Pay attention to the schedules and routes because buses and trains run on specific timetables. 

You can use apps like Google Maps or specific transport apps to plan your route and find the best way to get to your destination.

Also, be aware of the peak hours when public transport is the busiest, usually in the mornings and late afternoons when people are commuting to and from work.

Remember to follow the rules and etiquette of public transportation.

Always let people get off the bus or train before you get on, and offer your seat to elderly people, pregnant women, or those with disabilities if there are no other seats available.

Keep your voice down and avoid playing loud music so that you don’t disturb others.

14. Be Time-Conscious

Tip to survive in England – be time-conscious

People in England value punctuality, which means being on time for appointments, classes, and social events.

Being time-conscious helps you show respect for other people’s time and makes a good impression.

Plan to arrive a little early for meetings, school, or work.

If you have a class at 9:00 AM, try to get there by 8:50 AM.

This gives you a buffer in case something unexpected happens, like a delay in public transportation.

Being early shows that you are responsible and take your commitments seriously.

Also, pay attention to deadlines and schedules.

Whether it’s a homework assignment, a project for work, or catching a bus or train, knowing the exact times and sticking to them is crucial.

Use a planner or set reminders on your phone to help you keep track of important dates and times. This way, you won’t forget anything important and will always be prepared.

Being time-conscious also means respecting other people’s time.

If you’re meeting a friend or attending an event, make sure to arrive on time so that you don’t keep others waiting.

If you’re running late, let the person know as soon as possible.

By being punctual and considerate, you’ll build good relationships and show that you are reliable and respectful.

15. Be Straightforward

Tip to survive in England – be straightforward

Being straightforward helps build trust and strong relationships with others.

In England, people value honesty and can often detect when someone is not telling the truth.

One of the essential tips for surviving in England is to be honest about your whereabouts.

For instance, if someone calls you and asks where you are, it’s best to be truthful rather than saying you are almost there if you are still at home. 

Misleading statements can cause frustration and erode trust, making it harder for people to rely on you.

Being honest about your feelings and opinions is also important.

If you dislike something or have a different view, it’s okay to express this politely.

Clear and honest communication is highly valued in England.

For more on why honesty is crucial in building relationships, see the importance of honesty in a relationship.

By being straightforward, you’ll earn more respect and trust from those around you, making your life in England smoother and helping you build strong, reliable relationships.

16. Respect People’s Privacy

Tip to survive in England – respect people’s privacy

It’s important to know that people in England might not ask a lot of personal questions when they first meet you.

One of the key tips for surviving in England is recognizing that they often prefer to keep their personal lives private and expect others to respect their boundaries. 

They may be friendly and polite, but they tend to keep conversations general and not too personal.

It’s a good idea to do the same and avoid asking about someone’s private life unless you know them well.

This shows respect and helps build trust over time.

Understanding the importance of respect for others is crucial when it comes to social media and sharing personal details.

Be mindful of what you post.

In England, people often keep their private lives to themselves and don’t share too much information online.

Be careful about what you share and who can see it.

Keeping some things private helps protect your personal information and respects the privacy of others who may be involved.

Also, respecting physical space is also part of being private.

People in England appreciate their personal space, so try not to stand too close to someone or invade their personal area.

If someone seems uncomfortable or steps back, give them more space.

By understanding and respecting the value of privacy, you’ll find it easier to fit in and build respectful relationships in England.

17. Utilize Public Services

Tip to survive in England – utilize public services

Public services, such as the postal system, libraries, and community centers, are essential for daily life in England.

Knowing how to use these services is one of the key tips for surviving in England, as it will make your daily life easier and more enjoyable. 

The postal system in England is reliable and easy to use.

If you need to send a letter or package, you can visit a local post office for stamps, mailing options, and any questions you have.

You can also use post boxes around your neighborhood to send letters.

Receiving mail is simple too. Just make sure your name and address are clearly written on the envelope or package.

Also, public libraries are great resources for books, free internet access, and quiet study spaces.

You can borrow books, magazines, and sometimes even movies from the library.

Most libraries also offer various programs and activities, such as reading clubs, homework help, and computer classes.

Getting a library card is free and easy; you just need to register at your local library.

Community centers are places where you can join activities, meet new people, and learn new skills too.

They often offer sports, arts and crafts, language classes, and other hobbies.

It’s a great way to get involved in your local area and make friends.

By using these public services, you can make the most of what England has to offer and feel more connected to your new community.

18. Participate in Orientation Programs

Tip to survive in England – participate in orientation programs

As a student, these programs introduce you to your new school or university, which is one of the essential tips for surviving in England.

This will make you feel more comfortable and help you understand how things work.

They often include tours of the campus, information sessions about academic programs, and opportunities to meet other students.

Orientation programs can help you learn where your classes will be, find important buildings like the library and cafeteria, and understand the school’s rules and expectations.

Also, join student groups and clubs. Being part of a group can help you make friends and feel more connected to your new school.

There are often many different clubs to choose from, such as sports teams, music groups, science clubs, and cultural organizations.

Joining a club that interests you is a great way to meet people who share your hobbies and passions.

Understanding the benefits of hobbies can further enhance your experience, as engaging in activities you love can significantly enrich your student life.

19. Understand the Tenancy Agreement

Tip to survive in England – understand the tenancy agreement

If you’re renting a home or apartment, it’s essential to understand your tenancy agreement and the rights and responsibilities of both tenants and landlords.

These aspects are among the essential tips for surviving in England and will help ensure you have a safe and comfortable living experience.

Always read and understand your tenancy agreement before signing it.

This document is a contract between you and your landlord that outlines the terms of your rental, such as how much rent you’ll pay, when it’s due, and how long you can stay.

It also includes rules about what you can and cannot do in the property.

If there’s anything you don’t understand, ask someone for help or seek advice to make sure you’re clear on all the details.

Also, know your rights and responsibilities as a tenant. For example, you have the right to live in a safe and well-maintained home.

Your landlord must fix any major problems, like broken heating or plumbing.

However, you have responsibilities, such as paying your rent on time and keeping the property clean and in good condition.

Understanding these rights and responsibilities helps prevent conflicts with your landlord and ensures a positive rental experience.

Look for reputable landlords and safe neighborhoods. Ask for recommendations, read reviews, and check online resources to find trustworthy landlords.

When choosing a neighborhood, consider factors like safety, proximity to schools or work, and access to public transportation and shops.

Visiting the area and talking to current residents can give you a good idea of what it’s like to live there.

By understanding your tenancy agreement, knowing your rights and responsibilities, and choosing the right place to live, you’ll have a smoother and more enjoyable time in England.

20. Get To Know the Emergency Numbers

Tip to survive in England – know the emergencies number

These numbers help you contact the right services quickly if you are in danger or need urgent help.

Being aware of these numbers is one of the essential tips for surviving in England and can make a big difference in an emergency situation.

First, the main emergency number you need to know is 999.

You can call this number if you need the police, fire department, or an ambulance.

For example, if there is a fire, someone is seriously injured, or you feel unsafe, dial 999 on your phone.

The operator will ask you what kind of help you need and where you are, so try to stay calm and give clear information.

For non-urgent medical help, you can call 111.

This number connects you to the NHS (National Health Service) and is useful if you need medical advice or assistance but it’s not an emergency.

For instance, if you have a fever or a minor injury and don’t know what to do, call 111.

They can give you advice, direct you to the nearest doctor or clinic, and help you decide if you need to see a healthcare.

Keep these numbers handy, either saved in your phone or written down somewhere easy to find.

By being prepared, you can quickly and effectively respond if you ever find yourself in an emergency situation.

Closing Remark on Tips for Surviving in England

Living in a new country like England can be an exciting adventure filled with new experiences and opportunities.

As you settle in, you will discover many things that make England unique and learn how to adapt to your new environment.

By being prepared and informed, and following these tips for surviving in England, you can ensure a smoother and more enjoyable transition.

Remember to stay open-minded and patient as you learn and adjust to new ways of doing things.

It’s okay to ask for help or advice when you need it; people are often willing to assist newcomers.

Embrace the journey with curiosity and a positive attitude. Every challenge you overcome will make you stronger and more confident.

By taking the time to understand and appreciate your new surroundings, you will not only survive but thrive in England, making the most of this exciting chapter in your life.