Back to school shopping is a stressful event. What do I need? What should I get this one or that one? What do I need to get to be the best student this year? Here is a must have list of what to get when shopping for college.

1. Planner.

Even if you are an organized person a planner is a life saver. Between classes, assignments, meetings, and extra curricular activities a planner helps me keep track of everything.

2. Plenty of pens, pencils and highlighters.

From taking notes to highlighting an important quote in a textbook, pens and highlighters are a necessity. I recommend getting extra. I am constantly leaving them and end up with like two by the end of the semester.

3. A good backpack.

Books can be heavy and walking class to class or across campus a good backpack is your best friend. No one wants their backpack to fall apart and their stuff to fall out or the straps to break.

4. Power strips.

These things are great. Not only are they surge protectors, but they also give you more plug ins. I mean, who doesn't need more plug ins?

5. Command hooks/strips.

We all hang want to hang things on the walls to make the room feel more like home right? If you damage the wall though, you get a damage fee. Have no fear, command hooks or strips allow you to hang things on your wall and leave no damage.

6. Laundry supplies.

Now that you aren't at home, your parents can't do your laundry. Personally, I like Tide pods. There is no measuring, I just throw one in and it's good to go. Don't forget the dryer sheets too.

BONUS: Quarters/laundry card.

Yes, it cost money to do laundry. Be sure to have plenty of quarters on hand.

7. A sewing kit.

This comes in handy more than you think. If you have a button fall off, a small tear/hole, or a backpack that needs stitched up, a sewing kit is beneficial. I used mine numerous times throughout the year.

8. Shower shoes.

Seriously, wear flip flops in the shower. You share a bathroom with the whole floor. You never know if someone has athletes foot or something like that.

9. Mattress topper.

College beds are not always the most comfortable. I recommend a mattress topper to add a little extra comfort.

10. Pictures.

Pictures also make your dorm room feel like home.

11. Ramen/Easy Mac.

Yes, Ramen/Easy Mac is a must have. They are easy to make and are a great "meal" if you are pulling an all nighter or missed the cafe hours. It also helps to have other snack food on hand as well. I like popcorn and chips. In addition, granola bars are great if you have an early class.

12. Coffee!

Let's be honest; college students run of caffeine. Whether you are staying up late studying for a big exam or trying to wake up before an 8 a.m. class, coffee is a wonderful thing.

13. A Brita Pitcher

Drinking water helps keep you healthy and stay hydrated. This may be difficult when the water tastes different than home. Brita pitchers filter the water and help eliminate the taste as well. I personally love my Brita pitcher.

14. Plates and silverware.

Paper plates and plastic silverware or metal silverware and plastic plates it is your choice. Having these on hand is a great idea. Whether you're eating Ben and Jerry's Chocolate Therapy after a hard week or leftovers your mom sent back with you, you need plates and silverware.

These are just some of the things that should be on your back to college list. They make the switch back to school easier and smoother.