Backpack Essentials 2024: What You Actually Need

Not sure what to keep in your backpack? This blog covers all your backpack essentials! Discover the ultimate backpack packing list for school, college, or travel.

Are you gearing up for your first big trip abroad or packing for college? Either way, knowing what to keep in your backpack is a game-changer.

I’ve spent years perfecting my backpack essentials. After countless trips and daily adventures, I’ve nailed down the ultimate backpack packing list. I even keep a list on my phone to ensure I’m always prepared, and my friends and family swear by it too!

In this post, I’ll dive into the backpack items I never leave home without. From travel must-haves to cute school supplies, these essentials will keep you ready for anything.

Stick around to discover the best things to keep in your backpack. Whether you’re traveling the world or heading to class, this list will help you figure out exactly what you need.

My Backpack Essentials: The Basics

• Wallet and ID
• Mobile Phone
• Keys
• Reusable Water Bottle

Alright, let’s start with the basics. These backpack essentials are definitely not original, but I couldn’t leave them out. Whether I’m heading to college, work, or just out for the day, I always have these must-haves with me.

1. Wallet and ID

First up, my wallet and ID. I always carry my driver’s license, student ID, credit cards, insurance card, and a bit of cash in a compact travel wallet. These backpack items are essential for everything from grabbing lunch to catching the bus.

2. Mobile Phone

My mobile phone is my lifeline. Not only do I use it for calls and texts, but also to take photos, play games, and navigate cities like Singapore. Plus, with apps for social media, emails, and studying, it’s a non-negotiable on my backpack packing list.

3. Keys

Keys are another crucial backpack item. I keep my house keys, locker keys, car keys, and even hotel room keys together on a keychain with essentials like a mini flashlight and a bottle opener. Losing them is a nightmare, so they always go in the exact same pocket.

4. Reusable Water Bottle

Staying hydrated is super important, especially during busy days or when traveling in the summer. I carry a reusable water bottle everywhere I go. It’s eco-friendly and saves me from buying plastic bottles.

If you’re traveling abroad, a filtered water bottle is a great investment to ensure clean drinking water.

These are just a few of the things to keep in your backpack for school or travel. Stick around for more tips on how to organize your backpack and a full backpack packing list!

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What to Keep in Your Backpack

Now that you know my four backpack essentials, let’s move on to some extra things you might forget to pack. These backpack items will make your life easier, no matter where you’re headed.

Personal Care Backpack Essentials

• Personal Hygiene Products
• Makeup Essentials
• Sunscreen and Lip Balm
• Hair Accessories, Hairbrush or Comb
• Compact Mirror
• Mint Candies

5. Personal Hygiene Products

Don’t forget to add personal hygiene products to your backpack packing list. I always bring a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, and perfume. I choose travel-sized versions to save space and keep everything organized in a small bag.

Also, don’t forget to bring at least one pad or tampon. They’ve saved me countless times, and your friends will love you for being prepared!

6. Makeup Essentials

I don’t carry my whole makeup bag every day, but I always have some lip gloss, concealer, and maybe a bit of eyeshadow. It’s just enough to keep me looking decent for meeting friends after a long day of studying, working, or exploring. These are definite backpack essentials for me!

7. Sunscreen and Lip Balm

I swear by SPF 30+ sunscreen and a good hydrating lip balm. They keep my skin and lips in great shape year-round.

I usually put on sunscreen in the morning, but I usually carry some with me, especially when heading to the beach. These are definitely part of my beach bag essentials and travel must-haves!

8. Hair Accessories, Hairbrush, or Comb

My hair can get messy so quickly, so I always have some hair clips and ties in my bag. Depending on my plans, I might even throw in a small hairbrush or comb to keep my hair looking good. These are things to keep in your backpack to always stay prepared.

9. Compact Mirror

Sure, you can use your phone as a mirror, but I love having a small foldable mirror with me. It’s perfect for quick makeup checks, adjusting my hair, or making sure there’s no food in my teeth. It’s small, lightweight, and super handy on the go. Definitely a purse essential!

10. Mint Candies

I always keep mint candies in my backpack. These backpack essentials are perfect for freshening my breath after meals or a day of non-stop talking. Plus, they somehow help with dizziness during my summer trips.

Read Next: Unmissable Summer Bucket List Ideas for Travel Lovers in 2024!

Tech and Gadgets to Keep in Your Backpack

• Laptop or Tablet
• Headphones/Earbuds
• Power Bank
• Book or E-Reader
• Camera and Accessories
• Charging Cables

11. Laptop or Tablet

I always have my laptop or tablet with me. It’s my essential for blogging, watching movies, and staying in touch with friends and family, whether I’m working, traveling, or chilling at a coffee shop.

When considering what to keep in your backpack, make sure your laptop or tablet is lightweight and fits comfortably.

12. Headphones/Earbuds

Headphones or earbuds are must-have backpack essentials for listening to music, podcasts, or blocking out noise during a busy commute or flight. I prefer noise-canceling headphones for long trips and crowded city streets.

Bonus Tip: Don’t just rely on your AirPods—bring a pair of wired headphones too, so you never run out of battery.

13. Power Bank

A power bank is a lifesaver for keeping your devices charged on the go. Whether you’re using maps, taking photos, or FaceTiming friends, your phone’s battery can drain fast.

I highly recommend getting a power bank with multiple USB ports so you can charge several devices at once. This is definitely one of my top travel bag essentials!

14. Book or E-Reader

Having something to read is a great way to pass the time when you’re bored or need a break. I always carry my e-reader because it’s lightweight and can hold tons of books.

It’s perfect for downtime at airports, on the bus, or cozying up in a café. This should be on your backpack packing list if you love reading.

15. Camera and Accessories

If you’re into photography, your camera and accessories are likely backpack essentials. I usually just bring my trusty tripod, but you might also want extras like batteries, memory cards, and even a drone.

Electronic devices are expensive, so always carry them in your backpack and keep them with you at all times!

16. Charging Cables

Don’t forget your charging cables! I pack one for each device—phone, laptop, camera, and power bank. I used to hate digging through my bag for a cable when my phone was dying.

Now, I keep all my chargers organized in a small pouch. It’s one of my best tips for staying organized and ensuring I never lose another cable!

Safety and Health Backpack Essentials

• First Aid Kit
• Wet Wipes and Tissues
• Hand Sanitizer and Face Masks
• Personal Safety Alarm
• Prescription Medications

17. First Aid Kit

A first aid kit is a must-have backpack essential. It’s great for handling minor injuries or illnesses that might come up. You never know when you might need it, so I always keep one in my backpack.

On regular days, my kit is quite basic, with just a few essentials like band-aids, headache and pain relievers. But for travel, I add things like Dramamine or sleeping pills. Trust me, it was a lifesaver on my Phi Phi Island boat tour!

18. Wet Wipes and Tissues

Wet wipes and tissues are great things to keep in your backpack for quick clean-ups or freshening up when you’re on the go and can’t head home.

They’re also great as makeshift toilet paper or for wiping away tears. I always carry some in my backpack, whether I’m exploring Sri Lanka, attending a friend’s wedding, or watching a romantic movie.

19. Hand Sanitizer and Face Masks

Hand sanitizer and face masks have become part of our daily lives and are key travel bag essentials. I don’t carry them every day anymore, but they’re still essential for staying healthy, especially in crowded places or during flu season.

In some countries, like Japan and China, face masks were common even before 2020!

20. Personal Safety Alarm

A personal safety alarm is one of those must-have safety essentials for women, especially for solo female travelers. It’s compact, easy to use, and can deter potential threats with a loud noise.

When heading home alone at night in an unfamiliar area, I keep it in my hand or an easily accessible backpack pocket. If it’s not easy to reach, it won’t be much help!

21. Prescription Medications

Besides your regular first aid kit, make sure to pack any prescription medications or supplies you need for any disabilities or medical conditions.

Bring enough to cover your trip, plus a few extra days in case of delays. Keep them in their original packaging with a copy of your prescription to avoid any issues at customs.

Read More: 17 Proven Tips and Tricks to Get Your Parents to Say Yes to Solo Travel

Extra Things to Keep in Your Backpack

• Sunglasses
• Umbrella or Raincoat
• Fan
• Healthy Snacks
• Reusable Utensils
• Reusable Shopping Bag

22. Sunglasses and Regular Glasses

Okay, this might sound weird, but I never wear sunglasses. I really want to protect my eyes from the sun, but I’ve tried several pairs, and they just don’t fit my face right. However, I love how they make any summer outfit look stylish and more put together.

And if you need regular glasses, don’t forget those—they’re definitely a backpack essential.

23. Umbrella or Raincoat

An umbrella or raincoat is a must, especially if you live somewhere with unpredictable weather. I don’t carry one every day, but I keep it near my bag so I can grab it quickly if it looks like rain.

It’s also one of my travel bag essentials for places with tropical weather, like when visiting Singapore in winter.

24. Fan

A small fan is a lifesaver during hot summer days. I always carry a handheld fan to cool down when the heat gets unbearable. It’s perfect for public transport, long walks, or just sitting in a park.

I also have a small electric fan that I used in college and now use when working remotely.

25. Healthy Snacks

When deciding what to keep in your backpack, healthy snacks like nuts, dried fruits, or granola bars should be on your list. I don’t pack these backpack items every day, but they’re great for a quick energy boost, especially on day trips or during long study sessions at the library.

26. Reusable Utensils

I don’t always carry reusable utensils with me either, but I use them when I’m camping, visiting food trucks, or grabbing takeout. They don’t take up much space and help cut down on single-use plastic waste.

You could also add a collapsible container to your backpack packing list to meal prep and save some extra money.

27. Reusable Shopping Bag

For the last couple of years, I’ve been carrying a reusable shopping bag in my backpack. I have a foldable one that takes up no space in my backpack or even my purse.

It’s the perfect backpack item for spontaneous shopping trips, carrying extra items, or cutting down on plastic bag use.

School Backpack Essentials

• Notebook and Pens
• Textbooks and Study Materials
• Book Stand
• Planner or Calendar
• Flash Drive
• Calculator
• Highlighters and Sticky Notes

Not sure what to pack in your school bag? Packing for college can be pretty overwhelming, but my biggest secret to staying prepared is to keep your backpack well-packed with everything you need.

Here’s what I always have in my school backpack:

1. Notebook and Pens

I never leave home without a sturdy, spiral-bound notebook for taking notes and jotting down ideas. It’s one of those great things to keep in your backpack for school

I also make sure to pack a few extra pens, pencils, an eraser, and a small ruler. It’s such a relief to have these school bag essentials on hand instead of scrambling to find them when you need them.

2. Textbooks and Study Materials

Always pack your textbooks and any necessary study materials for the day. This is a no-brainer for your college backpack essentials. Checking my schedule the night before helps ensure I have everything I need for my classes. Trust me, it saves a lot of stress in the morning!

3. Book Stand

A book stand might sound like an extra, but it’s a game-changer for studying. As a former law student, I swear by a foldable, lightweight book stand. It holds your textbook upright, making it easier to read and take notes without straining your neck.

4. Planner or Calendar

Keeping track of assignments, exams, and social events is crucial. I use a physical planner because I love writing things down, but a digital calendar works just as well. I can’t wait to buy the Sophia Lee Daily College Planner. It’s definitely an investment, but it looks so useful and absolutely stunning!

5. Flash Drive

A flash drive is a school bag ssential for backing up important documents and transferring files. It’s a small but vital tool for any college student, especially when you need to print something in a hurry.

6. Calculator

Depending on your classes, a calculator might be essential. I always kept a basic scientific calculator in my backpack for math and economics courses. Just make sure it’s approved for your exams!

7. Highlighters and Sticky Notes

Highlighters and sticky notes are cute school supplies that are ideal for highlighting important details and keeping your notes organized. I love using different colors to make my study sessions more efficient and aesthetically pleasing.

These backpack essentials for college help me stay organized, prepared, and ready to tackle each day. So if you’re wondering what to keep in your school bag or what to put in your school bag, this list has got you covered!

Travel Backpack Essentials

• Travel Documents
• Travel Adapter and Converter
• Extra Clothing
• Bug Spray
• Entertainment 
• Travel Pillow and Eye Mask
• Portable Wi-Fi Device
• Local Currency

Traveling can be unpredictable, so it’s key to have the right items in your backpack to ensure you’re ready for anything. Here are my travel backpack essentials to stay prepared, comfortable, and organized:

1. Travel Documents

I always carry my passport, visa, boarding passes, travel insurance, and any necessary ID in a secure, easily accessible spot. A travel wallet or organizer keeps everything together. I also recommend making copies of your essential travel documents and storing them in a plastic folder for extra protection.

2. Travel Adapter and Converter

A travel adapter and a converter are must-have backpack essentials for travel. Different countries have various outlet types, so a universal travel adapter ensures you can charge all your devices no matter where you are.

3. Extra Clothing

Packing extra clothing is essential. I always bring an extra outfit in case my checked luggage gets lost. A hoodie or a jacket is great for those chilly air-conditioned places or when traveling in winter.

A sarong or lightweight scarf is incredibly versatile—it can be a blanket, beach towel, cover-up, or even a makeshift pillow.

4. Bug Spray

For outdoor adventures or visits to certain countries, a small bottle of bug spray in your backpack is a lifesaver. Mosquitos love me, so this helps keep them at bay and makes my trip much more enjoyable.

5. Entertainment

I usually just pack a book, my headphones, and maybe a deck of cards. But if you’re traveling with kids, you might want to pack their favorite games or activities to keep them busy. These backpack travel essentials make long journeys much more bearable.

6. Travel Pillow and Eye Mask

A travel pillow and eye mask are a game-changer for comfort. Whether on a long flight or a bus ride, a good travel pillow helps me catch some sleep and arrive at my destination feeling refreshed.

7. Portable Wi-Fi Device

Staying connected is crucial, especially when traveling abroad. While I personally prefer buying a local SIM card, a portable Wi-Fi device ensures you always have a reliable internet connection. It’s especially handy for working on the go or finding your way around new places.

8. Local Currency

Having local currency on hand is necessary for small expenses like transport, food, and tips. Some places don’t accept cards. While you can exchange money in advance, I prefer using my Revolut card (with no transaction fees!) to withdraw cash on arrival. It’s quick, easy, and one less thing to worry about.

These backpack traveling essentials ensure I’m ready for anything, whether it’s a sudden change of plans or an unexpected adventure.They keep me comfortable, organized, and ready to make the most of my travels.

FAQs: Backpack Essentials

What to put in your backpack for school?

Pack the basics: notebooks, pens, pencils, and textbooks. Don’t forget your planner, water bottle, and snacks. A laptop or tablet can be handy, and personal items like hand sanitizer and lip balm are great school backpack essentials to have, too.

What to pack in your purse when traveling?

Keep it light but essential: your wallet, passport, and phone. Add some lip balm, hand sanitizer, and travel-sized toiletries. A small snack, portable charger, and a pen can be lifesavers. Don’t forget any important documents or medications. These are purse essentials for any trip.

How to keep your backpack safe when traveling?

Always keep an eye on it, especially in crowded places. Use lockable zippers and consider an anti-theft backpack. Carry it on your front in busy areas and never leave it unattended. A luggage tag with your contact info is a good idea. These are key backpack traveling essentials.

How to organize your backpack efficiently?

Use smaller pouches for items like chargers, toiletries, and snacks. Keep heavier items close to your back for better weight distribution. Use the main compartment for books and larger items, and the front pockets for things you need quick access to.

How to clean your backpack without ruining it?

Empty it completely and check the care label. Most backpacks can be spot-cleaned with mild soap and water. For a deeper clean, some can go in a laundry bag and be washed on a gentle cycle. Always air dry to avoid damage. This helps maintain your backpack essentials in top condition.

What are must-have items for a travel backpack?

Travel must-haves include your passport, travel documents, and wallet. Pack a water bottle, snacks, and a first aid kit. Don’t forget a portable charger, headphones, and a good book. A travel pillow and an extra set of clothes can also come in handy.

Final Thoughts on What to Keep in Your Backpack

Keeping your backpack well-stocked and organized can make your daily life so much easier. Whether you’re working, studying, or traveling, this backpack packing list ensures you’re always prepared. 

What else am I forgetting to pack? Share your backpack essentials in the comments below! Don’t forget to subscribe to my blog for more travel tips and guides.

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