Checklist: university backpack essentials

Whether you’re carrying a backpack, tote-bag or just filling your pockets, there are a few necessities I recommend taking into your lectures and classrooms every day.

This may seem basic, but you’d be surprised how many times we’re running around the house before uni trying to find those last-minute items, so here is your checklist.

Pens

By the dozen! Whether you lose them or you’re generous enough to share them around, you should always have two-three minimum to make sure you’re not missing a beat.

Five-subject book

This incredible invention saves the lives of busy and messy university students across the globe. Utilise each section for each course and you’ll have one section left over for miscellaneous notes.

Laptop (and charger)

Alright, so this may not be an essential, as the University has a computer you can use on every corner, but it does make it easier and quicker to take notes and have theories on you ready to go.

Highlighters

Again, not a necessity, but they certainly help. Always pack a few coloured highlighters so that when something needs emphasising or is key knowledge you can simply make a clear mark on your notes for future reference. My ultimate tip is every time you think a concept or theory is going to be part of an assessment, highlight it green (or whatever colour you like – just make sure you stick with it.)

Headphones

Big yes – headphones or earphones are a must! Whether you’re listening to music on your transit to class, or recapping your lectures on Echo between tutorials, I highly recommend always having a pair with you.

By Lauren Thompson