It is a recurring event: during this time of the year, I always think about what I will bring to campus with me. It changes each year, as I learn what I really use and what I don’t Because I enjoy making lists, this is, as I do each year:
My Backpack Essentials for 2020/21 (or Going to University During a Pandemic)
Well, first of all, calling it a backpack is not accurate. I change between a few bags depending on many details: what I am wearing, how many things do I need to bring with me, what the weather is like, etc. For this next “school” year, I have a few options:
A tote bag. This is probably the one I use the most because it’s quite light and easy to carry, but it can also hold a lot of things. However, they are not the greatest for rainy days, because there with so little protection, there is a big chance my things inside will get wet. I have two, both made out of canvas, in beige and black.
My Macbook briefcase, which I got two years ago on Amazon. It has enough space for my laptop and any documents I have to bring. Nevertheless, it cannot carry much apart from what I have already mentioned and my bottle of water, so lately I have been using it only on rainy days.
A shopper bag, which I just recently got. It will be perfect for those days when I want to dress a little bit nicer or when it’s raining. Mine is reversible, so it can be used in beige nude or black.
I also have a little bag to carry my lunch for those days that I have classes both in the morning and afternoon. I carry with me every single day my 750ml Contigo bottle of water which I got in Costco. It’s big enough that I don’t have to refill it during classes, I just bring it empty to campus and fill it there, so that I don’t have to worry about weight.
As I have mentioned above, I also always bring my laptop with its case, since is where I type everything down: class notes, ideas, important information, etc. I also bring with me every day my wallet (with my driving license, card and some change) and my keys. I usually also carry around a small bag with some plasters, pills in case me or my friends need them, and feminine hygiene products.
This year, however, I do have to bring special things due to the current situation. I will keep them in a pouch so that I can always have them even when I change my bag in a rush. Some of the items I want to carry always with me are:
Hand sanitizer, which is basic for this time and age. I keep some in my car as well.
Disinfectant wipes, as my classes are used by many people and I don’t want to have to worry about where I put my laptop or my things.
Soap, in a little refilled bottle. Sometimes there’s no soap in the dispensers at uni, so just carrying my own is easier.
A handkerchief. This is the master item, as it can serve as a towel to dry my hands or to open doors or touch surfaces.
Other things not related to the pandemic that I bring some days are snacks, for when I have many classes, and my AirPods, in case I need to spend time in the library or just to listen to music.
I still have some time to think about anything else that I might need in this new reality. If you have suggestions or questions about what I am bringing, you can let me know here!
