Don’t you just hate being unprepared for school? As much as we like to joke that all we need is a pencil and one notebook, there’s something about being unprepared that makes us uncomfortable—we try to avoid it as much as possible. I’ve got you covered with seven backpack essentials that will carry you through the school year.
PHOTO: Lex Kelly
1—Chapstick/lip gloss
This one’s a no-brainer. Don’t you just hate it when you don’t have chapstick so you have to lick your lips instead? I know, gross. Make sure you always have some chapstick or lip gloss in your backpack.
2—Lotion
This is also a necessity, and lotion gives you soft hands throughout the day.
3—Hand sanitizer
There are germs everywhere, so hand sanitizer comes in handy all the time especially when eating food.
4—Earbuds
I didn’t realize the beauty in having earbuds when walking to class until a couple weeks ago. It’s great to listen to music, a podcast, or an audiobook as a way to get your mind together.
PHOTO: Kelly Rogowski
5—Snack and water
We all love food and get hungry, but with all the schoolwork and extracurricular activities, sometimes we forget to eat. Having a snack handy is always a must, and with this summer heat still in full play, you can’t forget to have water. Water bottles like this can keep your water nice and cold for hours!
6—Small journal
I don’t know about you, but things are always flowing through my head. It might be due dates, reminders, quick poems, or drafts, but I like to have a small journal in my backpack so I can jot down my thoughts.
PHOTO: Anna Coke
7—Pen and pencil
Don’t be that kid who forgets to bring a pencil and pen to class. My rule of thumb is this: make sure you have enough pencils and pens for yourself and one other person. Not only will you be prepared for class, but you’ll also be helping someone else out.
What do you absolutely have to have in your backpack? Let us know what your backpack essentials are in the comments below!
