As a commuter student, I don't have the option of running back to my dorm every time I need something. I could, of course, grab things from my car, but in reality, most of us only want to walk that far when it's actually time to go home.
At the beginning of my college career, I thought a backpack was unnecessary and that I should just use a big purse. This was more so about looking cool rather than the functionality of it all. Over the past couple of years, I've come to see exactly why I need one.
While the backpack itself is super important... what you put in it is even more important. What you put in or leave out could make or break your day! Apart from the basic school supplies, I've complied a list of all of my essentials to help make your day flow smoother with less stress.
Devices (Laptop, phone, tablet, etc.)
For most students devices are a basic need. Whether you're sending a text on your iPhone or taking lecture notes on your laptop, you won't want to forget any of your devices.
Chargers
With devices come batteries, and with batteries come chargers. If you're spending your whole day using your phone, you better not expect your battery to last all day.
Keep one in your bag at all times and save yourself the frustration of having to walk around campus asking, "hey, do you have a charger?"
Headphones
With college comes many moments where you want to just block out the world. Sometimes you just want to listen to music while you're studying and other times you may wear them to avoid interacting with people before you've had your coffee.
No matter what your reasoning... headphones are an essential.
Snacks
Don't allow yourself to get too hangry. Make sure you have a couple of snacks packed incase you need a little pick me up.
A hoodie...or cardigan...or jacket
Sure, it may be hot outside but it's probably -30 inside your classroom so don't forget a cardigan... or sweatshirt... or, well anything that you prefer to keep you warm.
Emergency Money
Always keep a twenty stashed in your bag. You never know when your account may reach zero or when you're going to run out of swipes on your meal plan.
Student ID
Never forget your student ID. It's nearly impossible to get anything done without it. Whether you're swiping into an event or into the dining hall... you don't want to be without yours.
Gum
You may not need it for yourself but a friend just might. Save yourself and your friends who may or may not have just eaten a hoagie at lunch.
Chapstick
Whether its hot outside or its super cold, no one is safe from the curse that is chapped lips. Keep at least one in your bag at all times!
Hand Sanitizer
Be sure to apply often because you never knew who sat in that booth at lunch or who used that library computer before you.
