The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not reflect the views of Her Campus.

This article was written by a student writer from Her Campus at Cal State Chico.

First, let me say that I highly recommend switching from a backpack to a book bag/tote for school this semester. It’s really a lot less hassle and will upgrade your outfit tremendously. I’ve grown a small collection of different tote bags and just switch them up depending on what I’m wearing that day. Below I’ve listed a few necessities that I always have in my bag, as well as my favorite brand recommendations.

Mini dry shampoo

Dry shampoo is a must for me no matter where I go. I have long hair, so my hair falls flat about an hour after styling. Having dry shampoo in my purse is so convenient for adding volume and body back to my hair. It’s also great for after the gym or on days when it’s humid. My favorite brand of dry shampoo is Moroccan Oil because I’m absolutely obsessed with the smell, but honestly all dry shampoos work the same and these ones from Batiste and Not Your Mother’s offer more bang for your buck (and they smell delicious too).

Pair of sunglasses

Honestly, finding sunglasses that look good on you can be the biggest challenge in the world. I prefer to stick with black or brown lenses because they go with everything and look chic. There are plenty of inexpensive models available on Amazon that come in sets if you want to try out which shape you like best before investing in a reliable pair.

Cardholder

I recently split my all-in-one wallet/keychain into two separate units. I never used to carry a purse, this has completely changed everything. I am absolutely obsessed with card holders now, I find there are so many cute ones out there right now. They are customizable which I love, it’s like picking out a phone case. A cute and affordable one I found recently on Amazon was this one in black, red or navy (I would personally just cut the keychain off). Some really fun ones I recently discovered are these from Kate Spade (blue with rhinestones, leopard print). Kate Spade always has great deals too so I would definitely check that out. If you Really I want to treat myself, but I’m obsessed with this one from YSL. I think it adds the perfect “red wine” accent to outfits that will be really popular this fall.

Compact mirror

This one is beyond unnecessary, but if you’re obsessed with all things girly and mini like me, then this is the most adorable accessory you can wear. It’s also really handy if you’re not near a bathroom and need to check your makeup or something.

Tiny scissors

Okay, I’m going to die on this hill, if you don’t have a pair of mini scissors with you, you should have some. I’ve used my scissors countless times over the years until they’re so dull they can barely cut anything anymore. They’re basically just pliers now. I use them to cut off labels, shape my eyebrows, open packages, you name it. Better yet, I’d get one of those compact sets that also include tweezers, nail clippers, and a file. They’ll be ready for any situation.

Headphones/Earbuds/Cute Headphone Cases)

I would give anything to own a pair of Apple headphones, but I’m learning to control my spending and overcome my chronic shopping habits. But seriously, headphones are the cutest chunky accessory. They really elevate any outfit for a relaxed day and make it look totally intentional. Headphones Cases exist too, in case you didn’t know, and they are absolutely the most precious thing in the world. So, come on, don’t tell me these from Amazon aren’t the cutest fitness accessory. You can also make them ✨customizable✨ on Etsy.

Wet wipes

To boil it down to the basics, wet wipes are neither aesthetically pleasing nor customizable, but I can tell you they are so useful and an essential part of any handbag. Every morning I wake up, spend 15 minutes making the perfect iced coffee, and then spill it all over my car’s cup holders. Maybe it’s just me, but wet wipes are an absolute must and I can’t live without them.

Lip product

There are really so many great lip products out there that it wouldn’t really matter if I recommended a specific one. Once you buy it, there will probably be a better one trending that everyone swears by. I would just keep a lip balm and a thin gloss that is either clear or close to your natural lip color. The Chapstick brand lip balm is literally my favorite, it’s glossy and the cherry flavor adds just a hint of color.

Refillable mini perfume

I keep a mini perfume in every bag I own and occasionally find them in the pockets of my jeans and in the dryer. They are the easiest to keep in your purse or pocket and people will wonder how your perfume lasts throughout the day. Speaking of which, I highly recommend having separate scents for spring/summer and fall/winter. It’s so nostalgic to change your perfume with the seasons and gives you that little extra something to look forward to all year round. My favorite scent for spring/summer is Gisou’s hair perfume, it just smells very clean and feminine. For fall/winter, I really like all of Kayali’s warm scents. Burberry Goddess is great too, it smells like lavender and vanilla.