The study abroad journey consists of a major change – your comfort. Moving abroad and leaving the comfort of your home is not easy. That’s why choosing the right student housing is very important when studying abroad. London, being home to thousands of international students, offers a wide variety of student housing options. But, choosing one out of so many can get overwhelming. A small blunder like distance, location or amenities can cause a significant impact on your journey abroad.
To help you make a smarter choice, here are seven common mistakes students make when selecting their accommodation in London—and how to avoid them.
1. Not Considering Commute Time
You may find a beautiful and affordable room, but if it takes over an hour to reach your university, it can quickly become a hassle.
Why It Matters:
- Long commutes lead to fatigue and reduce study time
- Travel costs can add up significantly over time
- You’ll miss out on campus activities and social life
Tip:
Choose housing that’s well-connected by Tube, bus, or walking distance from your campus. Use Citymapper or Google Maps to calculate real-time travel.
2. Focusing Only on Rent and Ignoring Other Costs
Many students only look at the monthly rent without factoring in other expenses like electricity, internet, laundry, or commuting.
Why It Matters:
- Hidden charges can stretch your budget thin
- The cost of living in London is already high, especially for students
Tip:
Look for all-inclusive rent options where bills are covered. Create a monthly budget including rent, transport, groceries, and occasional outings.
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3. Skipping Virtual Tours or Viewings
Photos online can be outdated or misleading. Booking without seeing the place can lead to surprises, like smaller rooms or noisy neighbors.
Why It Matters:
- You might miss red flags like poor maintenance or lack of facilities
- Shared spaces may be less clean or functional than expected
Tip:
Always ask for a virtual tour or video walkthrough. If possible, visit in person or ask a friend in the city to check it out.
4. Choosing the Wrong Type of Accommodation
Some students don’t consider their personal preferences and learning styles when choosing between shared flats, studios, or halls.
Why It Matters:
- Shared spaces may be cheaper but lack privacy
- Studios offer more independence but are often pricier
Tip:
Reflect on your study habits, personality, and budget before choosing. Platforms like University Living can help compare different property types of side by side.
5. Not Checking What’s Included
Some accommodations sometimes do not provide essentials like bedding, kitchenware, or even Wi-Fi. Buying these later can become an extra expense.
Why It Matters:
- Unexpected purchases strain your initial setup budget
- Basic items like a mattress or cookware are often overlooked
Tip:
Ask for a full inventory list before signing the contract. Choose furnished properties where these essentials are already included.
6. Ignoring the Local Area
Students often forget to check what’s around the property. Such as grocery stores, medical clinics, cafés, or safety at night.
Why It Matters:
- Living in an unsafe or inconvenient area can affect your lifestyle and mental well-being.
- Even short errands can become stressful if local amenities aren’t nearby
Tip:
Use online maps to explore the area virtually. Check local reviews, safety ratings, and the nearest essentials like supermarkets and pharmacies.
7. Not Booking Early Enough
London is one of the most competitive student cities in the world. Waiting too long can lead to limited options or inflated prices.
Why It Matters:
- Last-minute bookings may result in higher rent or poor locations
- You might miss out on the best deals or early-bird offers
Tip:
Start searching 3–6 months before your course begins. Use trusted platforms like University Living to find verified listings and secure your spot early.
Quick Checklist Before Booking
- Is the rent all-inclusive?
- How far is the commute to university?
- Have you done a virtual tour or viewed the property?
- Is the local area safe and well-connected?
- Are essential furnishings and bills included?
- Are you choosing the right room type for your lifestyle?
- Have you read student reviews and verified the property’s legitimacy?
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right accommodation in London isn’t just about finding a place to sleep—it’s about building a home base that supports your study, social life, and wellbeing. Avoiding these common mistakes will save you money, stress, and unnecessary complications down the line.
