London Packing

Pack lightly: Lay out only what you think you absolutely need. Then pack half the clothes and twice the money. The Travelite FAQ (www.travelite.org) is a good resource for tips on traveling light. The online Universal Packing List (http://upl.codeq.info) will generate a customized list of suggested items based on your trip length, the expected climate, your planned activities, and other factors.

Luggage: Although suitcases are fine, be sure that you can carry your luggage up and down stairs, as steep staircases are unavoidable at most Tube stops and in many B&Bs and hostels. A smaller daypack can be useful for daytrips out of the city.
Clothing: A rain jacket is essential year-round. Londoners generally dress conservatively and darkly—a pair of black trousers will help you blend in. Be sure to pack some semi-dressy pants and shoes, especially if you plan to go clubbing: many clubs ban jeans and sneakers. Flip-flops are must-haves for grubby hostel showers.
Converters and Adapters: In London, electricity is 230V AC, enough to fry any 120V North American appliance. 220/240V electrical appliances won’t work with a 120V current, either. Americans and Canadians should buy an adapter (which changes the shape of the plug; US$5) and a converter (which changes the voltage; US$10-30). Don’t make the mistake of using only an adapter (unless appliance instructions explicitly state otherwise). Australians and New Zealanders (who use 230V at home) won’t need a converter but will need a set of adapters to use anything electrical. For more on all things adaptable, check out http://kropla.com/electric.htm.
First-Aid Kit: For a basic first-aid kit, pack bandages, a pain reliever, antibiotic cream, a thermometer, a multifunction pocketknife, tweezers, a decongestant, a motion-sickness remedy, a diarrhea or upset-stomach medication (Pepto Bismol® or Imodium®), an antihistamine, sunscreen, insect repellent, and burn ointment.
Film: Consider bringing along enough film for your entire trip and developing it at home since this process is expensive in London. Despite disclaimers, airport-security X-rays can fog film, so buy a lead-lined pouch at a camera store or ask security to hand-inspect it. Always pack film in your carry-on luggage, since higher-intensity X-rays are used on checked luggage.
Toiletries: You’ll easily find all the toiletries you need in London, but they are likely to be more expensive than at home, especially contact lens solution. Bring your glasses and a copy of your prescription in case you need emergency replacements.
Important Documents: Don’t forget your passport, traveler’s checks, ATM and/or credit cards, adequate ID, and photocopies of all of the aforementioned in case these documents are lost or stolen. Check that you have any of the following that apply to you: driver’s license; hostel membership card; ISIC ; travel insurance forms .