There are so many things you need for high school that it’s hard to keep on top of everything. The thing is, the more care you take to pack your school bag, the better you’ll feel all day. Whatever comes up, you’ll have to tools to deal with it.
There is nothing worse than being at school and not having all the equipment you need. Especially if little surprises happen that you’d rather not ask a friend or go to the office about.
Here’s my list of everything you need to pack in your school bag each day.
Read this too: 10 things to do now to get ready to go back to high school
What to pack in your school bag
Pencil case
One with probably do, but I like to separate the things I need on the daily from the things that I only need sometimes. So I have two. Think pen and lead pencils in one case, and coloured pencils in the other. See the next section for exactly what’s in my pencil case.
Calculator
Most of the time the teachers will let you use a calculator for some tests and worksheets, so always have one on you. Even if it’s not for Maths class.
Portable charger
Even if your phone never dies, I assure you one of your friends’ phones will. So help them out, and maybe yourself, and pack a portable charger.
Notebook
It’s good to write down homework or important information in an extra notebook instead of your workbook. Staying organised will be easier if you keep all your notes all in one place.
Planner
You should always write down your homework and assignments on the day you get it, so you don’t forget. You might also have to write down excursion dates and tests.
This free printable planner will help you keep on top of your school day.
Hair ties
You probably have one in your hair when you leave for school, but it’s always a good idea to bring some spares. Friends will no doubt thank you for this one, too.
Money
Sometimes you may leave your lunch at home when you are rushing around in the morning. Bring money so you’re always prepared to fuel yourself during the school day (at our school, we can’t use our phones for cash during the school day – what about yours?). Keep some money on your phone as well, just in case you want to head out to the shops with your friends after school.
Mints
Pretty self-explanatory, no one wants to have bad breath at school (especially useful after lunch).
Deodorant
Same as the mints, this is important. Definitely don’t forget it on days you have sport or PE!
Band-Aids
Guaranteed there will be a day at school you’ll need band-aids. You can get them from teachers or the office, but it’s so much easier to have your own.
Hand sanitiser
You could just go to the sink to wash your hands, but that’s not nearly as convenient as having hand sanitiser in your bag.
Lip balm
Having dry lips is so uncomfortable and distracting, so stop that from happening by bringing lip balm with you to school.
Tissues
Most classrooms have tissues, but not all of them, and they run out quickly – especially in winter. So be prepared and bring your own.
Umbrella
The weather can be very unpredictable so always have an umbrella with you, so you don’t get wet and uncomfortable during the day. I walk to and from school as well, so this one is mandatory for me.
Click here for a free printable checklist to help you pack your school bag.
Pack a neat pencil case
Now, what do you need in your pencil case? Here’s what’s in mine:
1. Pencils
2. Pens
3. Scissors
4. Sharpener
5. Sharpie
6. Arline
7. Eraser
8. Ruler
9. highlighters
10. Whiteout
11. Glue
12. USB
Pack these extras
Extras that are ‘nice to haves’ include:
1. Coloured pens
2. Coloured pencils
3. Coloured textas
Good luck at school this year!
