As a college student, you’ve been doing the back-to-school shopping routine for a while now. But there’s probably always a few things you forget every year, despite your experience. What items can make your life easier at college this semester? Read on for some great items to add to your back-to-college shopping list.
A Quality Backpack
Carrying books, laptops, and all your other junk in a flimsy bag is not only uncomfortable but also bad for your back. Break down and invest in a bag that is sturdy and comfortably fits everything you need during a day on campus. AmazonBasics Backpack for Laptops Up To 17″
Academic Planner
A planner can help you juggle classes, projects, tests, and extracurricular activities. Having everything in one place can increase academic success and relieve stress. A planner specifically tailored to students is ideal. AT-A-GLANCE Academic Weekly / Monthly Planner, July 2017 – June 2018, 8-1/2″ x 11″, Garden Party (150-905A)
Dry Erase Board
A dry erase board provides a great supplement to your planner. Write down reminders and keep it in a location that you’ll see every day. To further improve organization, color code your notes with different markers for different categories (for example, blue for academic and red for clubs or organizations). U Brands Contempo Magnetic Dry Erase Board, 11 x 14 Inches, White Frame and U Brands Low Odor Magnetic Dry Erase Markers With Erasers, Medium Point, Assorted Colors, 6-Count
Two Pocket Folders
Do you ever find random papers stuffed in your bag or lying around your room? Keep those miscellaneous handouts, notes and other items organized in pocket folders. If you want to be really organized, select several colors of folders to keep papers of different categories together. JAM Paper Plastic Heavy Duty 2 Pocket School Presentation Folders – Assorted Fashion Colors – 6/pack
Flash Drive
A flash drive is essential, especially if you work from different computers or have to give presentations. Keep a flash drive with you at all times and always save your work to it before you log out. SanDisk Cruzer 128GB USB 2.0 Flash Drive
Wireless Ear Buds
Whether you’re working out or just want to listen to something without disturbing your roommates, headphones are a must-have. You can choose between smaller ear buds or headphones, depending on your needs. SENSO Bluetooth Headphones
External Phone Charger
Don’t find yourself stranded with a dead phone. Keep an external batter/charger in your car and/or bag to ensure your phone is always working. Anker PowerCore 10000, One of the Smallest and Lightest 10000mAh External Batteries, Ultra-Compact, High-speed Charging Technology Power Bank for iPhone, Samsung Galaxy and More
Report Covers
Make your reports, papers and presentations look more professional with report covers. In addition to making your papers look better, they have the added benefit of protecting them from stains. Plus, they’re a requirement in some cases. Oxford Premium Clear Front Report Covers, Letter Size, Black, 25 per Pack
#2 Pencils
Boring but necessary, #2 pencils are required for many types of written tests. Buy in bulk and you’ll save money and never have to worry about running out. Dixon Ticonderoga Wood-Cased #2 HB Pencils, Box of 96, Yellow
Highlighters
Highlighters are great for going over notes, textbooks and handouts. They’ll help make studying easier and save time when reviewing material. Sharpie Pocket Highlighters
Page Flags
Save time digging around your giant textbook by using post-it flags to mark significant pages. They won’t mess up your book like folding pages plus their easier to see. Post-it Arrow Flags, Assorted Bright Colors
Composition Books
Always have a composition book or two on hand. You don’t want to be scrambling around for one last-minute when exam time comes around. And don’t spend a lot of money at the college book store – buy and bulk and save money. Mead Composition Notebook, College Ruled, 100 Sheets, 5 Pack
For more back-to-college ideas, read our posts on dorm room essentials and the best college planners 2017