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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Manhattan chapter.

As midterms are coming to a close, everyone can’t stop thinking about spring break. Mother nature has been bringing us sunlight and temperatures up into the high 50s here in New York, making spring fever harder to get over. Spring break is a week of relaxation and relief for college students after having completed the first half of the spring semester, which for many is the most stressful. However, getting ready for spring break can be just as stressful. This year, I am lucky to be going to my roommate’s home in Puerto Rico over spring break. Although I am excited to be a beach bum and explore the island for a week, I am worried about what to pack and how to fit it all in my carry-on; and I am sure I’m not the only one. 

Whether you’re going to a beach destination like me or simply back to your hometown, I have some packing tips to get the most out of a small luggage space, and products that are a necessity to put in your suitcase before leaving campus for spring break.

Packing Tips:

  • Roll your clothes instead of folding them, this saves so much space!
  • Place your shoes on the bottom of the bag/suitcase. This is especially important to prevent tipping of the luggage as shoes tend to be the heaviest items packed.
  • Utilize the empty space inside your shoes by placing your socks in them.
  • To prevent toiletries from exploding all over, place a piece of saran wrap in between the cap and the bottle.
  • Have a plain suitcase? Attach a ribbon to the handle to make claiming your luggage easier.
  • Weave your necklaces through straws to prevent tangling.
  • Make a checklist! This will help prevent overpacking items you do not need as well as help make sure you do not forget anything.
  • Pick up some empty plastic travel size bottles! These are so convenient when traveling anywhere, as they are reusable and you won’t have to buy your products again in travel size form, which tend to be overpriced. 

Must Haves in Your Suitcase:

  • Sunglasses: Sunnies are a necessity this spring break! The sun will hopefully be shining all week and having a cute pair of sunglasses will not only keep the sun out of your eyes but also add some flare to your daily look!
  • Sunscreen: Whether it be in your favorite face moisturizer, make-up product, or just a regular bottle, sunscreen is an essential for spring break. 
  • Small Bag: I cannot leave my house without either a purse, bookbag, or fanny pack full of necessities to get me through the day. Brining one of these along with you to your spring break destination will be super helpful!
  • Portable Charger: If you’re like me and your phone is constantly dying, having a portable charger on you is a lifesaver! Having one will also be super helpful if you’re planning on traveling and not being near an outlet all day.
  • Reusable Water Bottle: Making sure you stay hydrated is so important when traveling somewhere warm, and having a reusable water bottle with you over break will not only help you drink more water, but also reduce your plastic use. You can also pick out a super cute water bottle to help encourage you to drink more water and receive compliments on it!
  • Hair Accessories: Packing some cute headbands, scrunchies, hair pins, and bandanas is major to keeping your hair out of your face while adding a touch to a simple ponytail or other pulled back look. They are also a great and simple addition to top off your outfit!

I hope these tips and tricks help you when you’re packing for break! Enjoy :)

 

Casey Schellberg

Manhattan '23

Casey is a senior at Manhattan College majoring in Childhood Education with concentrations in math and psychology. In her spare time, she enjoys hanging out with friends, shopping, and exploring NYC. Casey is also a part of Manhattan’s cheerleading team and serves as an RA on campus. She is loving her home as a Jasper at MC and cannot wait to see what the upcoming years bring!
As an avid lover of all things writing related, Christine is a born story-teller. She is a junior at Manhattan College majoring Public Relations and minoring in Marketing. When she’s not writing, you can find her exploring NYC, binge watching The Office, or enjoying a good cup of tea. She joined Her Campus after transferring to MC and absolutely fell in love with it! She is currently the Campus Correspondent of her chapter, and hopes her articles can entertain and inspire women everywhere. After college, she plans to continue writing and hopes to publish a book one day. Be sure to check out her college lifestyle blog Christineeve.com!