Whether you're a first-year college student, or you're going into your last year of your masters, everyone always struggles to remember to pack everything in their bag. Throughout my time in college, I think I've been pretty well prepared for any situation because my backpack is always full and ready to go with all the essentials.
From extra hair ties and band-aids to every color pen you can find on the shelves at the store, I have this 'what to carry in your backpack' thing down to a science.
1. Laptop/Tablet
In the age of technology, how could you even think to show up without an electronic device? Trust me, you'll use your laptop in almost every class, whether it be for notes and class purposes or games and online shopping. Some teachers even take attendance through online platforms or encourage you to take notes paperless, so it is definitely a good idea to carry your laptop and show off your cute stickers!
2. Notebook/Binder with paper
As important as it is to have a laptop, professors will often do activities where you have to write things down and turn it in, so make sure you have some paper! In addition, if you're anything like me, it helps you remember stuff when you write it down so paper for taking notes is essential.
3. Deodorant or body spray
Walking to class, especially in the Florida heat (#GoNoles), can make you so sweaty, it's absurd. Throw a mini deodorant or body spray in your bag so you don't offend the person next to you with your sweaty B.O. In all honesty, you may just want to stick a mini cosmetic bag in your backpack with some of the essentials to keep you feeling fresh all day, even after walking in the 90+ degree weather.
4. Water bottle
After you walk possibly over a half hour to class, you'll get thirsty. Especially in those hot summer months, you'll be so grateful that you have a water bottle. I personally am a huge fan of reusable water bottles, not only because they're good for the environment, but they're a cute way to show your style and things that you are involved in on-campus by dressing up a plain water bottle with stickers.
5. Headphones
Honestly, there's no better way to walk to class than when you're pumping your favorite songs through your headphones. I'm all for face-to-face interaction and speaking to others while walking to class, however, if you are walking alone, headphones can really make the walk go faster.
6. A rain jacket/umbrella
After living in Florida my whole life, I've learned about how unpredictable weather can be. I literally never leave home without an umbrella, a rain jacket, or both. You can never be too safe and you can never over-prepare for rain and bad weather. A rain-proof device is essential and one of the most important things to carry because news flash, they don't cancel classes due to heavy rain and thunderstorms in college! So throw on your rain boots and keep your umbrellas and rain jackets handy, because when you walk out of your lecture and into a rainstorm, you will thank me.
7. Sunglasses or a hat
It's hot, it's sunny, and the best way to beat the heat while walking miles to class is throwing on a trendy pair of Ray-Bans or your favorite hat repping your university.
8. A folder
A folder is a good thing to have to throw any spare papers in. Usually, after visiting an advisor, or going to the library to print something, it is easier to throw it in a folder so that it doesn't get crumpled and lost in the depths of your NorthFace bag.
9. Snacks
Walking long distances between classes and having breaks during the day can make a person hungry. I strongly recommend packing snacks, like granola bars or a bag of pretzels, to refuel throughout the day. Personally, I also throw an on-the-go breakfast item in my bag as well because I'm not great with mornings. As long as they're non-perishable snacks, you will never be upset having a spare snack just in case and will be thankful on the days when you're so hungry you can't focus.
10. Writing utensils
As if this isn't a given, you will need a pen or a pencil, or anything to write with. I know in high schhol you were usually limited to black and blue pens, so use your newfound freedom to experiment with colored pens, mechanical pencils, and all the fun markers and highlighters. Most of your work will be online anyway, but even if it isn't, any colors or writing mediums are allowed, so go crazy!
11. Gum/Mints
Whether it's to keep you awake or to freshen you up between classes, gum and mints are a basic essential for every college student to carry in their backpacks.
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