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College packing list

10 essential items for your college first aid kit

By Dr. Anya Sharma

Published: 09 May 2025

My Freshman Year Epiphany

Okay, so my first year of college was… a rollercoaster. I envisioned late-night study sessions fueled by questionable ramen and endless intellectual debates. The reality? More like battling a stomach bug during a midterm and accidentally setting off the fire alarm trying to make toast at 3 am. Amidst the chaos, I learned a valuable lesson: a well-stocked first-aid kit is a lifesaver (literally!). And trust me, it's way more important than you think; you'll thank me later, especially when that campus infirmary has a three-hour wait and you are in serious pain.

college student looking overwhelmed | Image: Supplied

1. Pain Relief:

Let's start with the obvious—pain. Headaches? Muscle aches from that impromptu dance party? Stomach cramps that hit you out of nowhere (college life, amirite?). Stock up on ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen (Aleve). Remember, always follow the dosage instructions on the packaging. Oh and don't forget the allergy medication, if you have allergies. I did, and I suffered a lot in the first few months.

ibuprofen bottle | Image: Supplied

2. Digestive Distress:

College dining halls... need I say more? Between the questionable food quality and stress-induced stomach problems, digestive issues are practically a rite of passage. Pepto-Bismol or Imodium can be your best friends when your stomach starts acting up. Trust me on this one. I’ve had some embarrassing experiences dealing with that.

antacid medication | Image: Supplied

3. Cuts and Scrapes:

Between clumsy dorm-room maneuvers and late-night adventures, minor cuts and scrapes are inevitable. Band-aids, antiseptic wipes (like those with alcohol), and antibiotic ointment are absolute necessities. If you are clumsy like me, you will really appreciate having these on hand.

first-aid kit with bandages | Image: Supplied

4. Cold and Flu Fighters:

Let's face it, dorms are breeding grounds for germs. Keep tissues, cough drops, and throat lozenges readily available. A good thermometer can also save you from unnecessary trips to the health center. I've made that mistake once or twice. This is very important.

box of tissues and thermometer | Image: Supplied

5. Allergy Relief:

Seasonal allergies, dust mites in your dorm room—the list of potential allergens is endless. Antihistamines (like Claritin or Zyrtec) can be lifesavers if you're prone to allergies. Also keep some nasal spray handy, just in case.

allergy medication | Image: Supplied

6. Motion Sickness:

Long bus rides home for the weekend? Road trips with friends? Dramamine or similar motion sickness medication can be a game-changer. Believe me, trust me. It helps a lot.

motion sickness medication | Image: Supplied

7. Feminine Hygiene Products:

This should go without saying. Pads or tampons, pain relievers for cramps—stock up on whatever you need to stay comfortable. Seriously, this is super essential.

feminine hygiene products | Image: Supplied

8. Burn Relief:

Accidental burns from curling irons, hot coffee mishaps (it happens!), or even those questionable late-night ramen experiments—aloe vera gel or a burn cream can soothe and heal minor burns. Trust me you don't want to deal with second degree burn. That really hurts.

aloe vera gel | Image: Supplied

9. Eye Drops:

Staring at screens all day can leave your eyes feeling dry and irritated. Eye drops provide much-needed relief. I don't go anywhere without my eye drops.

bottle of eye drops | Image: Supplied

10. Tweezers and Nail Clippers:

These may seem like small items, but they are essential for maintaining your personal hygiene and addressing small injuries or ingrown hairs. Trust me, you'll be glad to have them.