Creating a Comprehensive School Survival Kit: A Beginner’s Guide

At the start of each academic year, it's important to have a dependable school survival kit. This kit serves as a lifeline, addressing sudden situations that might arise from unexpected circumstances. In Part 1 of 2, we'll discuss the essential items to include in your kit. Follow these steps to ensure you're prepared for every unpredictable situation.

Part 1 of 2: Choosing the Right Items

Basic School Supplies

When assembling your survival kit, remember that some items are a must-have, while others may be occasional needs. Here's a list of key items to consider:

A spare pencil and sharpener or extra pencil lead A small stapler with extra staples A pink eraser Paper clips A highlighter A flash drive Post-It notes A copy of your schedule

Basic First-Aid Supplies

Self-care is crucial, and a few well-chosen first-aid items can help handle minor issues. The following supplies will prove invaluable:

Band-Aids Ibuprofen or aspirin (check with your parents/school nurse) Antacid tablets Antibiotic ointment Tampons or pads

Personal Hygiene Supplies

Keeping clean and fresh ensures you can tackle the day no matter what. Consider the following personal hygiene essentials:

Deodorant Breath mints or gum (if allowed) Perfume cologne or body spray Face wipes or oil pads Hand sanitizer or lotion A toothbrush or toothpicks Chapstick

In-Between Class Snacks

Feeling a bit peckish between classes? Keep these healthy snacks for a quick energy boost:

Granola bars Dried fruits or fruit leather Nuts or sunflower seeds Chocolate (for an occasional treat)

Important Phone Numbers

Make sure to always have access to emergency contacts. Print out a list of the following numbers:

Your parents' work numbers Your doctor's number Your neighbors' numbers (in case of emergency) Other important numbers

Makeup Essentials

For those who wear makeup, having backup items is worthwhile. Include:

Neutral lip-gloss A small eye shadow palette Eye pencil Mascara An applicator brush

Miscellaneous Items

To ensure you're fully prepared, consider adding these extra items:

A water bottle Hair ties and bobby pins A brush or comb Spare socks and underwear Some spare cash and change A few batteries A spare phone charger

Part 2 of 2: Packing Your Kit

Find a Good Carrying Case

Choose a container that fits your needs and can be conveniently stored. Options include:

Tupperware containers Lunch boxes Small fishing tackle boxes Old toolboxes with different compartments A small makeup or pencil bag An extra backpack

Pack What You'll Likely Need

Select only items you're likely to use. Revise your kit after a few weeks of school based on your needs. For example, if there's a stapler available in the office, you don't need to include one in your survival kit.

Decorate and Label Your Kit

Make your kit unique and easily identifiable by decorating it. Pinterest offers many creative ideas for organizing and personalizing your kit. Alternatively, you can make your kit look like something else, such as an old first-aid kit to blend in.

Change Out Perishable Items Regularly

Keep food and other perishables fresh by regularly replacing them. Check your kit before each trip, especially when returning from vacations. Regularly check on facial wipes, hand sanitizer, and lotion to ensure they remain effective.

Keep the Kit Accessible

Store your survival kit in a location where you can easily access it. The best location typically depends on your personal preferences and school policies. Common locations include your locker, backpack, or purse. You can also keep a kit in your car or cubby box if you don't have a locker.