Back to school is approaching, and it’s time to get prepared. Your backpack is basically your mobile life, for school and dance class. It is important to have all the essentials you need with you throughout the day, so that you can walk around feeling confident and prepared. This doesn’t mean you need everything under the sun in your backpack, just the essentials. Let’s narrow it down together.
Absolute Must-Haves
These are the must-haves that you absolutely need for this school year.
Water Bottles
Staying hydrated is so important, so keeping a reusable water bottle with you at all times is great. You don’t need to go out and buy a new one if you already have one (that’s the best part about them being reusable).
Planners
A calendar system can be a lifesaver. This could be a planner if you like a physical reminder, or if you are more of a digital girly, then a calendar app is perfect.
Snacks
Nothing is worse than getting hungry in the middle of the day, so pack some snacks. Granola bars, trail mix, and fruit are all great, healthy options for staying fueled.
Power Up
Keeping any tech you need for school or practice charged is essential, so throw in a smaller power bank and any charging cords you might need.
School Supply Green Flags (Worth it)
Here are some things that are going to be well worth your money. The key is to get things that you know you will need and use, so you don’t end up having to do a massive locker and backpack cleanup of extra supplies at the end of the year.
Folders
Chances are you’ll have random homework assignments and other papers to hold onto, so investing in durable folders and binders is a good choice.
Backpack
Pick a backpack with comfortable straps. There are lots of cute bag options, but comfort is going to be essential for long days. Focus on supportive straps and organized compartments.
Note-Taking Tools
Note-taking is inevitable, so buy some highlighters and pens that you like so it can make it a bit more fun. And you can never go wrong with buying some sticky notes! Just don’t buy more than you know you’ll need. Tabbing every little thing is probably going to get old fast.
School Supply Red Flags (Probably Not Worth it)
There are some things that you probably don’t need and can save some money on. Back-to-school shopping is fun, but we want to focus on function over having a big haul.
Replacing Everything You Own
There’s a difference between needing something for school and needing something new for school. For example, if you have a water bottle that you love, you don’t need a brand new water bottle. The function is what matters!
Overpacking
What are you going to need throughout the day? Big pencil cases filled with things you don’t need take up too much space, and you want to avoid getting super heavy binders that will weigh down your bag. The goal is to be prepared without being uncomfortable.
Final Takeaways
Back-to-school season isn’t about having the newest backpack or the fanciest school supplies. It is all about learning and having fun. So put on your favorite outfit and go out and rock that first day of school!