If you want to get to know a university student better, you should ask to see what’s in their bag. There’s nothing more unique and filled with personality than the survival kit you pack for school!
Today, we see bags of all shapes and sizes, which are tailored to fit each individual’s needs: A large bag with compartments to fit your laptop, notebooks and snacks, a duffel if you’re hitting the gym after class, a small tote for a lighter class load and sometimes a fanny pack if you live on campus!
Vedanshi’s bag – residence student must haves
As a student living just two minutes from campus, my bag is more minimalist than a commuter’s. Think essentials with a sprinkle of personality. Here's what I carry:
- Compact everyday bag – Small and light, perfect for quick trips to class and back. Sometimes a small tote or shoulder bag.
- Essentials — My laptop, headphones, water bottle, a notebook and some pens.
- Entertainment on hand – Card games for when boredom strikes and a book or comic to flip through between lectures.
- Snack stash – Light munchies to keep energy up during breaks.
- Emotional support trinket: A Sonny Angel that gives me company throughout the day!
Since I live nearby, I usually head home for lunch and a power nap to recharge before the next round of classes.
Pro-tip: Check out York’s Start Strong resources to plan your semester and essentials.
Cheyenne’s bag – commuter student must haves
As a commuter student travelling in from Toronto every day, my bag looks more like a survival kit than a lightweight tote. Since I’m often on campus for long stretches of time, I need to be ready for everything.
- Large organizational bag/backpack – A sturdy, padded, roomy backpack to carry everything for a long day away from home, with many pockets and organizational sections.
- Lunchbox or meal prep – Packing a full meal helps save time and money on campus.
- Transit essentials – Any transportation card i.e. PRESTO card, GO Student ID, TTC Student ID, etc., a good book or a small puzzle/game to make long rides enjoyable.
- Weather gear – An umbrella or foldable raincoat for unexpected Toronto weather.
- On-the-go travel packs – A small pouch stocked with mini tissues, hand sanitizer, a mini first aid kit, Advil/Tylenol for headaches, lip balm, hand lotion and deodorant ensures you’ll be ready for mostly anything. Also, keep a mini travel bag to easily switch into gym clothes or to carry just the essentials for an evening study session.
Pro-tip: If you’re a commuter, consider renting a locker on campus to keep gym clothes, books, supplies or anything you want to store on campus. Depending on your faculty and college affiliation (e.g., LAPS, Bethune, McLaughlin), you may be able to rent a locker for the semester or year. Visit your college’s website or office to see availability.
Whether you’re a commuter or live on campus, here are some essential items to consider packing in your bag.
- Laptop/tablet
- Notebook and pen
- Water bottle
- Charger/portable charger
- Tissues, sanitizer, wipes
- Wallet (with your YU-card)
- Headphones/earbuds
- Snacks
Pro-tip: Keep a digital copy of your YU-card on your phone so you don’t have to worry about losing a physical one. You’ll need it for writing your exams, dining on campus and much more! Learn how to get a digital YU-card.
Bonus items we all carry
Not everything in your backpack is visible. Some days, your bag might also feel heavy with:
- anxiety – from exams, deadlines or long commutes;
- boredom – during long rides or quiet afternoons; or
- motivation – for projects, events or a late-night gym visit.
These invisible items come and go. Remember to care for your mental health: take breaks, stay connected, use York’s mental health & well-being support. Check out the Virtual Well-being Hub for a personalized resources to help along the way!