Whether you’re a parent getting ready to settle your son or daughter into fresher’s week, or you’re preparing for an emotional farewell as they start a new term of university, one thing is for sure: they’ll need a few things to help them navigate this next chapter of their life. And what better way to carry their essentials than in a trusty Madlug backpack? Read on as we gather the essentials they’re going to need…

1. Stationery galore


First things first, they’re going to need the tools to take notes, scribble down ideas, and maybe even create some modern-day masterpieces during their classes. Fill your chosen Madlug backpack with notebooks, files, pens, highlighters, sticky notes, and a trusty calculator.


2. Course essentials


Depending on their course, they might need some specialised equipment or textbooks. Add any class-related materials on their wish list to your chosen Madlug backpack – and if they’ve already got all the books they need, invest in some colourful sticky tabs to help them quickly locate important sections in their textbooks instead.

3. Gadgets and gizmos

In this digital age, a laptop or tablet is essential – and laptop cases go a long way in ensuring they stay protected. For extra padding, choose a Madlug with a padded laptop compartment, like the Laptop Roll-Top Backpack, Roll-Top Tech Backpack, or Commuter Backpack, all of which have plenty of room for other gadgets like headphones to drown out the background noise in the library, and a power bank to ensure devices never run out of juice during those late-night study sessions.

4. Snacks, snacks, and more snacks

Cafeteria hours don't always align with their study schedule. That's where their snack stash comes in! Load your chosen Madlug backpack with healthy snacks like granola bars, nuts, and dried fruit to keep their energy levels steady and their brain sharp during those long study sessions.


5. Personal care essentials

Don't forget to pack personal care essentials like toothpaste, a toothbrush, soap, shampoo, and deodorant – great for freshening up after an impromptu game of frisbee or an intense study group session.


6. Hydration station

Staying hydrated is key to keeping their energy levels up. Grab a reusable water bottle that they can refill throughout the day. It's not only eco-friendly but also wallet-friendly, saving them from buying expensive bottled water on campus.


7. First-aid kit

While we hope they won't need it often, it's always a good idea to have a compact first aid kit in case of accidents. Include adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, tweezers, and any specific medications or medical supplies they may require, tucking any essentials into your chosen Madlug backpack's front pocket for easy access when needed.


8. Something for the downtime

When they're not studying or attending classes, it's important for them to have time to unwind. Pick out a novel they've been wanting to read, a journal for jotting down thoughts, or even a small sketchbook if they're artistically inclined.

9. Reusable shopping bags

Eco-friendly and practical, reusable shopping bags come in very handy when they need to carry groceries, books, or other items around campus or to their halls, and can easily fold up and fit into their Madlug backpack when not in use. Madlug Totes also make great reusable shopping bags and are extra sturdy.

10. A little boost


Starting university or a new term can be daunting, so packing a little positivity into your chosen Madlug backpack can go a long way. Adding a motivational quote or a small photo is great for when they might be feeling homesick and need a bit of a boost.

P.S. Missed the boat for fresher’s week? Madlug Student Survival Kits make great gifts. Read our blog on the best bags for college and university.