As we head back to in-person classes this fall, we are all feeling anxious about returning to campus. For the past year and a half, most of our interactions have been online, in the safety of our homes. To some extent, we did not have to worry about keeping safe during lectures. We haven’t had to pack our bags or prepare to commute as everything we needed was within arm’s reach. 

Going back to campus means that we need to be prepared and have all the items we might need while we are on campus. Here are the top 5 items I always have in my bag to feel somewhat safe and less anxious overall:

1: An extra face mask

BC’s government announced that masks will be mandatory on campus. Other than the mask I have on my face, I always make sure to carry an extra mask with me at all times in case of emergency. Your mask can tear, get stained or become uncomfortable as the day goes on. It’s always nice to know that I have an extra one I can change to in my bag. 

2: Disinfectant wipes and sanitizer

Going back to campus means going back to lecture halls that are used by hundreds of students daily. It is very difficult, and almost impossible, for the cleaning staff on campus to wipe down every single desk after each lecture. For peace of mind, I carry disposable disinfectant wipes in my bag so that I can wipe down surfaces as needed. I also carry hand sanitizer with me to keep my hands clean after touching surfaces. 

3: Moisturizer 

Constantly wearing face masks and using hand sanitizer means that your face and hands become quite dry. Carrying moisturizer in my bag allows me to hydrate my face and hands so that I am not uncomfortable throughout the day. I also make sure to carry lip balm to prevent my lips from chapping behind my mask. 

4: Reusable water bottle

SFU is a big campus. Students often have to walk large distances to get from one class to another. I always have my water bottle in my bag to stay hydrated as I venture around campus. SFU has many water fountains where you can fill up your bottle as the day goes on. Remember to avoid single use plastics which harm the environment by buying a reusable water bottle! 

5: Phone and laptop charger

The most annoying thing is to be stuck on campus with a dead phone and / or dead laptop. You’re bored out of your mind, you can’t take notes in lecture, and most importantly, nobody can contact you in case of emergency. To avoid this, I always make sure that my chargers are in my bag. You can also rent out chargers from the library, but to avoid stress, just carry your own! 

I hope these tips help you feel less anxious about going back to campus this semester. Remember to pack your bag the day before your class so that you don’t forget anything!