There’s no doubt that my school schedule will be jam packed, but with some essentials, I can make my junior year a little more bearable. Here’s what’s in my backpack for the 2019-2020 school year:

Pastel Highlighters

My Instagram explore page is currently filled with pictures of aesthetically pleasing notes and I’m obsessed. I bought a pack of the pastel highlighters that were being used with the majority of the notes I saw. They have both improved the visual quality of my notes and made notetaking more enjoyable.

pencil case

I have used by Fjallraven Kanken backpack since freshman year, and it was one of the best decisions I have ever made. I bought a pencil case made of the same material as their backpack for its durability. Even though it was $20, the concept of a long-lasting pencil case was definitely appealing.

Lip balm

When expensive lip balm became a trend, I purchased a Glossier Bom Dotcom. It was everything my basic Carmex wasn’t: long-lasting, nicely scented and multifunctional. It can be applied not only to the lips but also to the temples as a highlighter. Although one tube costs $12, my first tube lasted me a year.

Scrunchies

Whether they are worn as a bracelet or used to tie up hair, scrunchies are convenient. These hair ties can add a pop of color to any outfit, while still keeping my hair out of my face during my track and field practices. I pick up my scrunchies at stores such as Brandy Melville or Urban Outfitters.

Hair Wand

Ohii Magic Hair Wands are tubes of hair gel that are sold at Urban Outfitters. It is great for my “bad hair day” moments or when I don’t have time to put on a full face of makeup. It can conveniently keep eyebrows, eyelashes and flyaways in place.

Coin Purse

After carelessly shoving money in my backpack for many years, I realized a coin pouch was not necessary. Not only does it prevent you from losing your money, but it’s also a great way to store house keys, bobby pins or band aids. Coin purses come in cute patterns and can be found at common retailers such as Target.