Written by Katie Chandler, graphic by Leanna Ordoñez

Whether you are a freshman, transfer student, or about to graduate, the first day back to school always brings some level of anxiety. Here are a few things to stash in your backpack to alleviate some of that pressure.

BACKPACK 

The Fjallraven Kanken laptop bag is both stylish and functional. The bags come in different sizes, colors, and patterns. I use the 17-inch laptop bag that also comes with a removable seat pad, padded shoulders, a front zipper pocket, and side holders. Although the price is steep, these bags are an investment and will last through undergrad and beyond. They are also water-resistant which is a huge plus in rainy Springfield.

If you are looking for a cheaper alternative, 5 Pound Apparel in Springfield sells BackPact backpacks. The two are similar in design and function, however, this one features a roll-top and media port. Also, when you buy one, the business donates a backpack to a Springfield child in need.

UMBRELLA 

Speaking of rain, a heavy-duty umbrella is essential for life in Springfield. The Gust Buster Umbrella can stand up to winds 55mph, which will save you from walking around campus with your umbrella turned inside out.

If you need a more compact one, the Umenice Travel Umbrella is also meant to be wind resistant and folds up nicely to fit in any bag.

PHONE CHARGER 

Between classes, meeting with advisors, clubs, and events, you need your phone to be charged. This Anker power bank is perfect as it has a wall socket so you can charge it anywhere. Throw this in with your cord and you’re ready to go all day. 

EMERGENCY PACK

You never know what’s going to happen or what you’re going to run into on campus. Some staple items to have on hand include-

• Hand Sanitizer 

• Band-aids

• Lotion

• Tide Stick 

• Menstrual Products

• Gum

To keep track of everything, store them in a cute pouch in your backpack like these from society 6 where the sale directly benefits the artists who design them. 

FACE MASKS

With safety as a high priory, it is required for everyone on campus to wear face masks this semester. Culture Flock in Springfield, along with 5 Pound Apparel, are constantly getting new designs in stock to choose from, but they do sell out fairly quickly. However, if you have some extra fabric and some time, you can make yourself one following this Youtube tutorial. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uRfhuRNua_E 

PLANNER 

Passion Planner’s weekly academic planner is perfect for busy people to keep their lives in order. The planner has space for monthly reflection, daily schedules, months at a glance, and free space for notes. You can also pick if you want your weeks to start on Sundays or Mondays. Your time is important, you need to have a planner to keep track of it.

Check out Sartorial’s other articles for the 411 on back to school trends and places to study for your next test.