What to keep in my backpack is always a question running through my mind. I don’t want my backpack to weigh 500 lbs, but I also don’t want to be unprepared. Sometimes I wish I had a Mary Poppins bag. Until those are sold at my favorite store (Target) then I’ll just have to make sure that at least these ten things are always in my backpack:
1. Hair Ties
I swear there’s only two options when it comes to hair ties. I either have a bunch with me or I have none. So I try to always keep like 2 back-up hair ties in my backpack. Want to learn how to make your own hair ties?! Click here:http://www.hercampus.com/school/portland/diy-hair-ties
2. Mints/Gum
These are a total must-have. Personally I’m more of a mint fan, right now I have the Altoids Artic mints in peppermint. They come in a cute tin that is great for repurposing once you’re done.
3. Cash ($5-$10)
My mom always told me to never leave the house without having some cash on me. Mom’s know best so make sure to keep some money with you.
4. Headphones
There have been countless times when I’ve wanted to listen to music or watch a video, but am missing a key item. Headphones. No one wants to be the person in the library without headphones trying to listen to music. It doesn’t work, so make sure to always keep a pair in your backpack. Make sure to always put them back in your backpack though!
5. Feminine Products
These are always good to have on you.
6. A Notebook
I’m not talking about your notebook for your statistics class. I mean a notebook that can be used to join down ideas, write to-do lists, write what your schedule for your day looks like, etc. My pink notebook, of course with an inspirational quote on the front, is always with me. That way it’s all in one place and I don’t forget things.
7. Lotion
I don’t know about everyone else, but sometimes I’ll just be sitting in class or the library and be like “oh my gosh I need some lotion RIGHT NOW”. Either because my hands are getting dry or the scent is a nice pick-me up. I bought a refillable lotion bottle from Fred Meyer and just fill it up. Right now I’m using St. Ives Naturally Indulgent Body Lotion in Coconut Milk & Orchid Extract. I’m also a HUGE fan of Bath & Body Works lotions.
8. “First-Aid” Kit
Okay, confession I love making travel kits out of old Altoid Tins. I’ve carried a “first-aid” one in my backpack since 6th grade. You never know when you’ll need a band-aid so it’s always better to be prepared. Currently, I have band-aids, cough-drops and some safety pins in mine.
9. Lip Balm
It’s an essential.
10. Re-usable waterbottle
I don’t go anywhere without my water bottle. I love it! This is a must have in any backpack. At least for me, if I ever forget my waterbottle I’m about 100 times more thirsty than when I have it on me. Also, here at UP we don’t sell any plastic waterbottles on campus. I’m such a fan of this policy, and personally strongly dislike plastic waterbottles. That being said, keeping my waterbottle on me at all times is a MUST.
This isn’t all I carry around in my backpack, but these are definitely 10 of the things I use the most. Have anything that you think is essential to keep in a backpack? Let us know!