This post is all about school essentials to keep in your backpack
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There are so many things you can buy to help you be prepared for school. As a commuter student, it felt like my list was different than on campus students. Most students could run back to their dorms when they needed something. I did not have that luxury as I lived 30 minutes away from campus.
While I loved my time on campus, it was always important to make sure I had everything I needed. That is why I decided to create a list of things I used the most that you may not think of bringing,
Here are the school essentials you should always have in your backpack
Laptop or iPad
This is the most basic item, but you should always have your device with you even if you are going to a class that does not allow technology. There have been so many times that I have left my laptop at home. Only to finish class early and then want to sit in the library to do work.
Chargers
The worst thing that can happen is being deep in a study session and realizing your device is about to die. This has happened to me sooo many times. I would be so focused on a paper and get that annoying little ding saying my battery is low.
I used to just bring my charger from home to school. But it led to me losing my chargers or forgetting them. I recommend having an extra set of chargers for your tablet or phone in your bag. You can even take is a step further and use a pouch to store all your cords.
Headphones
While the library can be a great place to study, it can sometimes be loud. Even when it is quiet I struggle with staying focused. One thing that has helped me is headphones. They block out noise and are useful for listening to lectures in public spaces.
I know most people carry their headphones everywhere. But I recommend keeping a pair of corded headphones in your bag for the annoying times your faves die.
- Apple earbuds. My go-to for years.
- Affordable over-ear headphones
- Investment headphones. These are the headphones on my wishlist.
Planner
I have seen a lot of TikToks of college freshmen stating you don’t need a planner. Don’t believe them. Often these are the students missing assignments or having bad grades. A planner is necessary for college to help you stay organized. Or write down random things your professors say, such as new office hours, study groups, or what chapters will be on a test.
- My current planner
- Favorite affordable option. I use this brand for work.
- Here is my review of my favorite planners
Notebook
There is always that one professor who doesn’t allow technology. Because of this, you should always have a notebook for the class. But even if you do use technology for classes, having a notebook is a must. There is always the chance of your devices dying or the internet not working. And sometimes, you just need to write on paper.
Writing
Like the notebook, you should always have a pen and pencil. You never know when you will need to write something down.
Pencil case
Of course, to stay organized you want a place to store all of your pens.
Basic study supplies
You never know when you want to sit and study after class. I was a commuter student, so I always made sure I brought stuff in case I wanted to study in the library. It also kept me from going home and taking a nap.
I only keep the basics and what can keep in my pencil case, such as highlighter, sticky notes, and page tabs.
Snacks
As a commuter student, it could be hard when I needed to eat. Vending machines can add up and the dining hall was only open at certain times. Even if you have access to a dorm, it is important to have snacks for those long study days. I usually keep a snack for energy and some sort of chocolate for my sugar needs.
Water bottle
This is a staple to always have with you. I use so many water bottles that I don’t have a favorite. But I recommend one that will keep your water cold the longest.
Money
You never know when you will need cash for a campus event or just to get a snack. I always make sure to have $5 in cash in my bag in case of an emergency.
Lotion
Maybe it is living in Colorado, but my hands are always so dry. Especially after washing them. I started keeping lotion in all of my bags for these moments.
Hand sanitizer
Pretty self-explanatory. Germs are gross.
Band-aids
There is always the moment you will need a bandaid. For me, it is often from my shoes rubbing. I like to keep several in my bags for this.
Hair tie or clip
Another staple. Sometimes your hair just gets in the way and you need to put it up. I always make sure to have a hair tie and clip in my bag at all times.
It is important to make sure you keep school essentials in your bag
This is just a short list of school essentials you should have. But keeping these items in my backpack at all times has made my life so much easier.
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