Back to School / Campus Essentials Coeds REALLY Want this Fall

Make your back to school, back to college coed extra happy this fall!

Oh! It's that time of year and if you are in college, more than likely already in the dorm. In fact it's Move In Week now at most universities. So if you are on campus or know someone who is, what would make them feel more at home?

As a Rutgers alumna, I can still remember those special "Care Packages" my parents put together for me. Those comforts from home, made all the difference transitioning into dormitory living. In fact, I'm back on campus again this fall. Among other endeavors, I have volunteered to help out with the college's alumni publication, 1766 Magazine. RU Rah RAH (deja vu)!

So here are my top suggestions for yourself or that special coed in your life.

Fjallraven Kanken Backpack, Apple iPad with stylus and Pamu Slide Earphones

Fjallraven Kanken Backpack is the IT bag this year on nearly every campus. Super lightweight yet rugged, it offers plenty of storage with a tablet compartment in the rear. 

6th Gen iPad 32 GB in Space Grey with Stylus is pretty much a necessity for every student these days. Sleek and elegant but ready to rock.

PaMu Slide Wireless Earphones offer amazing sound quality, resonant bass and actually stay in your ears. Bluetooth pairing is almost instant and the case doubles as a wireless phone recharger.

Desk Supplies: Rocket Book and SlitIt

Rocket Book Everlast digital notebook allows you to take notes and draw diagrams that can be transferred anywhere via the app.  Use this book again and again with the special marker and cleaning cloth.

SlitIt Plastic Package Opener belongs in every desk. Makes quick work of opening plastic sealed boxes and packages.

Dorm Room Comforts

Dr. Suess Cat in the Hat by Aurora was probably one of the first books you read all by yourself, right? Pop him on your bed to remind you of home and when someone used to read to you. Notice he is wearing my Rutgers pin. "We can have lots of good fun that is funny!"

Sleepletics Celliant Sheet Set will give you the best sleep experience possible away from home.  Dorm room cots are not known for being very comfy so these can help. Wake up feeling energized and ready to take on the day. Add a warm wool plaid blanket like this one for cooler fall nights.

Smile Sox for every mood! Get these for extra warmth and cozy studying late at night.

Fragrance & Skincare

Alpine Berry Water Cream by Primera gives skin a fresh infusion of moisture. Hydrates and illuminates 24/7.

Crabtree and Evelyn Lavender Hand Therapy is both soothing and calming. Apply to hands before bedtime for a restful night's sleep.

GM Collin Aqua Masque is the answer to dry fall weather. Refreshing and hydrating after a day of hitting the books.

Goutal Paris Eau D' Hadrien Alcohol-Free Fragrance is perfect for children and others with sensitive skin. Annick's scented waters contain no alcohol or colorants. This fragrance can even be worn in the sun.

The Ultimate "Snackage Care Package"

My parents were really great at building the perfect college "Care Packages" for me during my first years at Rutgers. It helped me to transition more easily into dorm life where you don't always have access to favorite foods.  While everything you pack is appreciated, there are a few tips to help make each item count:

*Jerky "anything" is a must! I even have Kelp Jerky on board here. Ocean sea greens are combined with land seasonings such as rosemary, shitake mushrooms, sesame, and maple all in a resealable pouch.

*Granola and Rowdy Bars that are loaded with nuts, seeds, prebiotics, and fruits are a life-saver for the in-between class munchies. These travel well and are absolutely delicious. 

*Whey Protein Powders & Drinks allow you to take the shake with you. I especially like the BiPro BOLD Whey + Milk Protein shakes in Creamy Vanilla. One packet gives you a huge 23 grams of clean, lean protein. Another protein beverage but ready to drink is one by Huel. At 400 calories per bottle, it's a complete meal with 20 grams of plant protein (pea powder), only 3 grams of sugar and seriously delicious. Try the chocolate!

*Easy Open Pop-Top Lids will make life much easier especially when a can opener isn't around. Corned beef hash, Underwood Chicken Spread, salmon and tuna were some of my favorites and still are to this day.

Eating on the Go - Beyond the Lunch Bag

Harkening back to campus life, I can recall many times when I was out the entire day, running between work and classes. Bringing along a healthy, delicious meal made all the difference in helping to feel grounded. I purchased this Stanley - Starbucks Thermos and their packable thermal food container. The thermos keeps drinks hot or cold for up to 15 hours while the food jar does a respectable 12 hours.

I ditched plastic forks and knives years ago so have used this Baladeo stainless steel cutlery set instead. Has a decent sized fork and spoon that nests together along with a corkscrew, knife and flathead screwdriver.  

So there you go! Whether on campus or off, students appreciate the efforts made on their behalf towards keeping them healthy and happy. Taking care of these creature comforts first means more time and energy to focus on studying.