"You're missing out on the college experience!" We've heard it before. At times, commuters have it rough in terms of traffic, 8 a.m. classes, and the inconvenience of campus life. But for some people, living on campus simply isn't an option. To make the daily drive a little easier, here is a list of college commuter essentials that will significantly improve your life.

If you're gearing up to make a college commute, this college commuter checklist is for you!

1. Laptop

This is pretty much an essential for every college kid. With papers, exam, online homework, a reliable laptop will be your go-to. Not to mention it's a must-have for that much needed Netflix break during finals week. As a commuter, hanging out in the library between classes is an every day occurrence. Be smart and study in your down time!

2. Lunch Box

Most people commute to save money – who wants to pay extra for a meal plan? Not to mention, eating at Chick-fil-A four times a week is not the best for your bank account…or your waistline. A lunch box is a necessity to pack healthy (or at least healthier) meals and snacks. Trust me, you'll need it.

3. Thermos

Going along with the lunch box- not many people are happy eating a turkey sandwich every day. Add some variety with soups, pastas, etc.! A thermos is perfect for warm meals on cold days. It is also great for breakfast on the go! Oatmeal has never been easier!

4. Charger

You're driving a lot, and you need to stay safe. Make sure you always have a charger in your car, just in case.

5. Textbooks

This may seem like a no-brainer; it is college, after all. But if you've ever found yourself stuck in the library for three hours between classes with nothing to do, you know how important this point is. Make the most of your free time as a commuter: bring your homework and textbooks with you. Who knows? You may have just enough time to catch up on tomorrow's required reading.

6. Mini Trash Can

As commuters, we spend a lot of time in our cars. That fact becomes increasingly evident as the semesters progress. Minimize the clutter by keeping a trash can made for your car in the back seat! Another way to combat clutter is to keep a decorative bin in your floorboard to hold extra textbooks and school supplies.

7. Water Bottle

This should be a must-have for every college kid, actually every human. Water is vital to good health, but it's so often overlooked. Make sure you keep yourself aware of your water intake by using a good water bottle. I know it's easy to become hooked on coffee and Coke Zero, but nothing takes the place of good ole' H20.

8. Planner

I cannot stress enough how important a planner is when keeping up with important dates and deadlines. As a commuter, important dates on-campus can sometimes be overlooked, not to mention the never-ending exams, due dates, and other miscellaneous syllabi info that we are responsible for. A planner is the perfect solution to keep track of our busy lives. Phones are great, but not always reliable. I like to have a hard copy of all of my plans, and planners can also be fun!

9. Snacks

The campus Starbucks is tempting, I know. Trust me, I know. As a commuter, you have the luxury to make yummy snacks at home. Go healthy with fruit, granola bars, and other easy snacks and save the caramel macchiato as a treat for finals week.

10. Podcasts

Depending on how long your daily commute is (mine is pretty long), boredom becomes a daily struggle. Make your drive interesting and maybe even learn new things on the way! Free podcasts are the perfect way to wind down after a long day or wake up for an early morning! You can find a podcast for whatever interests you. As a history buff, my personal favorite is “Stuff You Missed in History Class" - check it out here!

11. Amazon Prime Music

No one wants to listen to radio commercials and maybe your new favorite podcast only has two new episodes per week. Amazon Prime Music is the perfect way to make those in between days more fun! Download a new album or playlist the night before and listed to brand new songs, commercial free, on the next morning's commute. If you have an Amazon Prime Student subscription (free for 6 months, then half off!), then Prime Music (2 million songs) is totally free, and Music Unlimited (50 million songs, ad free) is just $0.99 a month. Trust me, it's worth every penny.

12. Pillow and Blanket

While I haven't exactly used this during my time as a commuter, there have definitely been times when a pillow and blanket would have made my life more enjoyable. Sometimes you need a good nap in your car between classes. If your campus is safe and you have the time to kill, nap the day away…until your next class, that is!

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