United Kingdom travel checklist
Power, visa, eSIM, packing rules, and weather in one fast page.
Currency
GBP
Language
English
Power
Plug type G, 230V / 50Hz.
Time zone
GMT (UTC+0)
Power banks
Under 100Wh allowed in carry-on; 100-160Wh needs airline approval; Up to 2 units.
United Kingdom travel checklist overview
What this page covers
The United Kingdom travel checklist highlights the key rules that affect most visitors: power standards, entry requirements, SIM options, carry-on rules, and weather expectations.
Who it helps
Use this checklist if you want a fast pre-flight scan before diving into the full tools. It is designed for first-time visitors and quick repeat trips.
Local context
Expect type G outlets, strong 5G coverage in major cities, and fast transit connections between London, Manchester, and Edinburgh.
Local essentials
What locals use
- Transit card: Oyster (London)
- Main airports: LHR, LGW, MAN
- Emergency number: 999 or 112
- City climate notes: London stays mild and cloudy most of the year; Scotland is cooler and wetter; the south coast is slightly sunnier.
- Voltage differences: Voltage is consistent nationwide at 230V / 50Hz.
Local insight
The UK is compact, so you can string together multiple cities by train in a week. London is best with contactless or Oyster for transit, while smaller towns are easier with rail or regional buses. Expect changing weather and pack a light waterproof layer. Pubs serve food throughout the day, and reservations help in popular neighborhoods during weekends.
Entry essentials
🛂 Visa & entry
- Many passports enter visa-free for short stays, but ETA may be required
- Passport should be valid for the full stay
- Onward ticket or proof of funds can be requested
🔌 Power & charging
- Type G plugs, 230V power
- Most phones and laptops support 100-240V
- Bring a UK 3-pin adapter for chargers
📱 eSIM & data
- 5G is strong in London and major cities
- Short-term eSIM plans cover rail + maps easily
- Activate before arrival for instant data
💳 Payments
- Contactless cards are accepted almost everywhere
- Chip-and-PIN is the standard for cards
- Keep a small cash backup for markets
Getting around, safety, and best seasons
🚆 Transportation
- Use contactless or Oyster for the London Tube
- Intercity rail is fast for UK city hops
- Driving is on the left if you rent a car
🛡️ Safety
- Emergency number is 999 or 112
- Watch for pickpockets in tourist areas
- Keep copies of key travel documents
🌤️ Best seasons
- May-June and September are mild and bright
- July-August is busy and warmer
- Winter is cooler with shorter daylight
Planning checklist
United Kingdom travel checklist tools to use
Power bank rules
Under 100Wh allowed in carry-on; 100-160Wh needs airline approval; Up to 2 units.
Open tool →Visa and entry snapshot
| Passport | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| United States | visa-free | Up to 6 months; ETA may be required before travel. |
| Japan | visa-free | Up to 6 months; passport valid for full stay. |
| Australia | visa-free | Up to 6 months; ETA may be required. |
| France | visa-free | Up to 6 months; check for ETA rules. |
Best eSIM picks for United Kingdom
Airalo
5GB for 30 days • $15 • 4G/5G
Nomad
10GB for 30 days • $20 • 4G/LTE
Weather and packing advice
Best weather months around London:
- May: 18°C / 9°C, 50mm rain
- June: 21°C / 12°C, 45mm rain
- September: 20°C / 11°C, 55mm rain
FAQ
Many passports can visit visa-free for short stays, but some travelers need an ETA or visa. Always confirm before booking.
The United Kingdom uses type G plugs with 230V / 50Hz power.
Yes, but they must be carried in the cabin and stay within airline watt-hour limits.
Other destinations
Last updated: 2025-02-01. Always confirm critical rules with official sources.