How to Pack a Backpack for Your First Day of School

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   Pick a good backpack. You may buy a new one or use your old ones, but just make sure that the backpack you choose is clean and strong. It shouldn't have holes and other imperfections, and should have a padded back and shoulder straps.

   • Try the backpack on to check that it fits you well. It should be capable of holding weight without cutting into you or sagging. Test it in the store before purchasing one.

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   Gather your school supplies. These things are what you'll put in your backpack. They are what the school requires you to bring, as well as things you need for personal use.

School supplies

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   Sort your school supplies first. Books go with books, notebooks with notebooks, folders with folders, pens with pens and so on. You can organize by size, color, and/or subject.
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   When your supplies are sorted out, put them inside your backpack one by one. Books at the back, notebooks at the front; you decide where your supplies should be in your backpack. Put heavier books closer to your back so there is no back strain and lighter stuff farthest from your back.
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   Make sure the supplies that are inside your backpack are organized. This means trying to add them in an order that makes retrieving them easy and where they won't be damaged.
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   Fix the pencil case. Pens should be inside the pencil case. Everything should be in its proper section, and ready to grab.
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   Have at least two folders. One for the curricular letters, and one for your test/quiz papers.

Personal supplies

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   Add your cellphone, if you have one. This can be useful for texts and emergencies.
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   Add personal hygiene products. This might include deodorant, a brush or comb, sanitary ware for females, hair ties, lotion, etc.

   • Place grooming supplies inside a grooming kit.
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   Bring your own reading book. This is for spare moments, when you feel like reading something you enjoy.
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   Add a good luck charm. You don't need one but if you like the idea, it might be a nice touch to give you some courage on the first day of school.

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   If your school is offering one, go to the orientation or open house event. It will tell you which books you may or may not need for the first day. Also, if they give you your locker before school starts, try to organize and arrange all of your books, so you only take the essentials in your bag.