College is expensive enough, so I put together this list of affordable must-haves that actually made a difference. From budget-friendly stationery and study tools to quick meal fixes, and random little lifesavers—these picks helped me stay on track w...
Sections
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Bags
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Cosmetics
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Stationery items
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Vitamins
Bags
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Hear me out! I got this bag when I started college for my weekend home visits, and it is so great. I can put enough stuff I want to take home with me, and it's very practical when you travel by bus, train or car. Highly reccomend!
Perfect for college—lightweight but sturdy, with just enough space to pack a full lunch or snacks between classes. I like that it has a separate sauce container and utensils included. Doesn’t leak, super easy to clean, and fits well in my backpack.
Adult Bento Boxes - All In Motion™ Pink
Cosmetics
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I really like the Touchland Power Mist — it’s super convenient, smells nice, and doesn’t dry out my hands like regular sanitizers. Plus, the spray feels refreshing and not sticky at all. Great for keeping in your bag!
Power Mist Hydrating Hand Sanitizer
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I always bring these with me to college—they’re super handy for quick cleanups, especially when I don’t have access to a sink. The tub lasts a while, they don’t leak in my bag, and they’re cheap but reliable.
Walgreens Hand Sanitizer Wipes
Stationery items
I always keep a pouch with my favorite writing supplies — for note-taking on the go.
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I’m using these right now for my notes and planning—they’re super smooth, the colors pop without being too harsh, and they don’t bleed through. For the price, they’ve held up really well. Definitely one of my favorite affordable finds.
Deli HIGHLIGHTER U12-6C
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Personally, I love this kind of notebook. The pastel pink is exactly my vibe—soft, calm, and just pretty to look at. I like that it’s not bulky, so I can slip it in my bag without thinking. The cover has a gentle feel to it, and the lined pages make ...
A5 Lined Paper/Stitched/Vintage Diary Notebook/Journal/Pastel Colour School Book
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I got these for the bright colors and big quantity—they’re perfect for everyday notes. Not as sticky as Post-its, but totally fine for my desk. Great deal for the price.
Triani 800 Sheets Sticky Notes
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Sometimes I use this paper to write notes when I forget my notebook—it’s that practical. It’s thick, smooth, and doesn’t bleed, so even just jotting stuff down feels nicer than with regular paper.
Hammermill Premium 8.5" x 11" Color Copy Paper 500 Sheets/
Vitamins
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I always keep a few of these Propel Immune Support sticks in my bag. The Orange Raspberry flavor actually tastes good (not too sweet), and it’s an easy way to get some extra vitamin C and zinc without any sugar. I use it when I feel a cold coming on ...
Propel Powder Variety Pack | Gatorade Official Site