This post shares 21 must-have school survival kit essentials every girl should keep in her backpack or locker.
This site contains affiliate links, view the disclosure for more information.
Getting ready for the 2025 school year? Don’t just pack pencils and notebooks – make room for the ultimate school survival kit packed with must-have backpack essentials every student should have.
Whether you’re facing a surprise period, a breakout before math class, or a raging headache halfway through your day, a well-stocked emergency kit can be a total lifesaver – and confidence booster. These items are compact, practical, and ideal for middle school, high school, and even college.
If you ask me, every girl needs a kit, whether they’ve just started their periods and are figuring it all out for the first time, all the way through your college days when you can throw the kit in your bag and head out for the day knowing you’ve got backup.
In this post, you’ll find 21 must-have items to keep in your backpack or locker – all curated to help you feel fresh, focused, and totally prepared no matter what your school day throws at you.
Here’s what you’ll discover:
- Period essentials every teen girl should carry
- Skincare + lip balm picks for quick touch-ups
- Hair care items for post-gym refreshes
- Personal hygiene must-haves
- Stress relief tools to keep on hand
- Easy snacks + hydration hacks
- School tech accessories that save the day
👇 Scroll down for our detailed list and don’t miss the FAQ section at the end where we answer the most common questions like:
- “What should a teenage girl keep in her backpack for school?”
- “What belongs in a period survival kit?”
- “What are the most essential items for school comfort?”
Let’s get into it 💼✨
21 School Backpack Essentials Every Tween & Teen Girl Needs in 2025 (Ultimate Survival Kit Checklist)
1. Pouch for Survival Kit
The first thing you’re going to need is a large pouch to put your items in. Not only does it keep everything organized, but it’s more discreet/gives you privacy if you need to bring the pouch to the bathroom etc.
You can find pouches online at places like Amazon or Target, and sometimes they will be called things like “makeup travel bags” or “travel toiletry bags.” All that really means is that they’re larger-sized.
I wouldn’t use a small pouch like a pencil case because it’s likely too small to hold much. Think oversized for this!
Find a cute print you like that suits your aesthetic, whether that’s a fuzzy makeup bag, a trendy checkered design, chic beachy stripes, bold neon, etc.
2. Period Supplies
Periods can be unpredictable, and being unprepared can lead to a stressful day. Include some period supplies in your emergency kit such as a pair of period panties, panty liners, or a period cup or disc.
If you haven’t tried these menstrual cramp patches, they are seriously a god-send! They’re these little heat patches that you adhere to your undergarmets (NOT against your skin) and they heat up! They really help with cramps.
I would definitely Include some in your surviva kit AND some feminine wipes for a quick freshen-up.
3. Pain Relief
Including pain relief in a school survival kit is a smart move for any student. Menstrual cramps can happen out of nowhere, so it’s good to have something to help you through the day.
Plus, long days filled with classes, extracurricular activities, and studying can often lead to headaches and muscle tension.
These Tylenol dissolve packs would be handy to put in your kit because you can dissolve the powder without water.
Having a small supply of over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can provide quick relief when these discomforts arise.
4. Mini Makeup Essentials
Mini makeup essentials can save the day before a presentation or after gym class. Include items like a small foundation stick, mini bronzer and blush, natural concealer, tinted lip balm, or any of your everyday favorites.
If you haven’t tried tubing mascara, I would highly recommend it for school days because it doesn’t flake or smudge, and it literally tubes off of your lashes when you wash your face at night.
You can’t forget some hydrating lip glosses. Some everyday basics you can include are Rhode by Hailey Bieber’s lip treatment (salted caramel mmm!) or Tower 28 lip jelly (it looks dark in the tube but applies so niiiice!)
5. Travel-Size Dry Shampoo
If you get oily hair, especially after gym class or workouts, a travel-size dry shampoo is super handy to have in your kit.
If you haven’t used dry shampoo, you spray it on your hair then brush it out, and it absorbs oil and makes your hair look instantly fluffier and better!
It’s super helpful for when you need to freshen up your look on-the-go.
6. Compact Mirror and Hairbrush
A compact mirror and hairbrush are essential for quick touch-ups between classes. The Tangle Teezer Compact Styler is an excellent choice as it’s small, gentle on hair, and comes with a cover to protect the bristles.
This foldable compact mirror is slim and fits easily in your emergency kit, PLUS it has lights which can be super helpful.
7. Deodorant Wipes
Stay fresh throughout the day with deodorant wipes. These are perfect for a quick refresh after gym class, in hot weather, or during a long day.
Pacifica’s Underarm Deodorant Wipes are vegan, cruelty-free, aluminum-free, and come in a variety of refreshing scents.
Plus, they’re compact and fit nicely in a pouch without taking up much room at all.
8. Mini First Aid Kit
The Welly Quick Fix Kit is compat, making it easy to carry in your school emergency kit, backpack, or locker. It also comes in cute, colorful designs to add a bit of fun to your kit.
I would also include some blister plasters in my kit because they are amazing when you need help. Blisters can be super distracting/annoying to deal with at school and can impact your day.
You don’t have to include the ENTIRE pack in your survival kit (obviously!), but I would include a couple of each shape and store the rest at home for later.
9. Lip Balm
Chapped lips can be a nuisance, especially in dry or cold weather. A lip balm with organic ingredients, like the Space Camp jumbo sweet vanilla lip balm, not only keeps your lips moisturized but is free of any nasty parabens, phthalates, petrolatum, and sodium lauryl sulfate.
10. Hand Sanitizer
If you’ve seen those aesthetic hand sanitzers on Tik Tok, these are them! The Touchland Power Mist is stylish, hydrating, and lasts 500 sprays. They’re compact, so they fit easily into any bag or pouch.
Plus, it comes in various scents that leave your hands smelling great. With hygiene being more important than ever, a small bottle of hand sanitizer is a must.
11. Facial Mist
If you have sensitive skin prone to redness throughout the day, you may want to include the Tower 28 SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray in your emergency kit.
It’s gentle, hydrating mist is perfect for refreshing your skin after a long day at school or an intense gym class. With its soothing ingredients, it helps calm any redness and keeps your complexion clear and radiant.
Say goodbye to midday skin blues and hello to a glowing, confident you!
12. Blotting Papers
If you’re in the oily skin club, NYX Blotting Papers are an absolute must-have for any emergency kit, especially for teens on the go.
These handy little sheets are perfect for those moments when your skin gets a bit too shiny. Just a quick dab, and they instantly absorb excess oil without messing up your makeup.
They’re compact, easy to carry, and super effective at keeping your complexion looking fresh and matte throughout the day.
13. Pimple Patches
Everyone is using acne patches, and for good reason. They look cute, AND each little sticker either helps absorb pore contents (hydrocolloid), or contains salicylic acid to help fight the pimple, or a combination of both.
If your skin is super sensitive, stick with hydrocolloid patches (they don’t have any salicylic acid).
If you want to fight the pimple with active ingredients, get ones with salicylic acid like the Starface stickers (I can vouch they work great!).
You can also get ones like the COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patch that are discreet and can be worn under makeup for all-day treatment.
14. Essential Oil Roll-On
If you are prone to headaches and migraines, essential oil roll-ons can be a great way to naturally soothe aches and pains.
The Saje Peppermint Halo Roll-On is known for its calming and cooling effects, perfect for relieving tension headaches during long study sessions.
15. Phone Charger or Power Bank
A dead phone battery can be a major inconvenience, especially if you rely on it for communication and schoolwork. A portable phone charger or compact power bank is a great staple in your emergency kit to make sure you stay connected.
The Anker PowerCore 10000 is a highly-rated, compact power bank that can fully charge your phone multiple times.
16. Hydration Packs
Staying hydrated is crucial, especially after gym class, dance class, cheer, or just when it’s super hot out.
I’m no doctor, but if you’re prone to headaches when it’s hot out, chances are you’ve lost minerals through sweat and need to replenish them. These packets are incredibly helpful for headache sufferers.
They give you Instant hydration and minerals, and they’re compact and portable. Ideal for school emergency kits, ensuring quick rehydration and improved energy levels.
Plus, electrolytes boost focus and muscle function. Who wouldn’t want a popsicle-flavored drink??
17. Emergency Snack
Let’s be honest, skipping breakfast happens when you’re in a rush, but it can leave you with depleted energy levels. Keep some healthy snacks in your kit to pick up your energy when hunger strikes.
The KIND Bars are a delicious and nutritious option that’s easy to pack. You could also include trail mix or granola bars, or if you need a peanut-free option go for 100% fruit bars.
18. Tissues
Tissues are a must-have for any school survival kit because of their versatility and practicality. They’re a lifesaver during cold and allergy seasons, helping you manage sneezes and runny noses discreetly.
Spilled something? Tissues are perfect for quickly cleaning up small messes and crumbs. They’re also great for maintaining hygiene, allowing you to cover sneezes and coughs to prevent the spread of germs.
Plus, they’re handy for various other uses, like cleaning glasses, blotting makeup, or even as makeshift napkins.
19. Hair Ties
What is a survival kit without hair ties?? They’re a must-have because they’re incredibly practical and versatile.
They’re perfect for keeping your hair out of your face during classes, sports, or windy days, helping you stay focused and comfortable.
They’re also great for quick hairstyle changes, whether you need to tie your hair up for gym class or let it down for a presentation.
Plus, hair ties can make you a hero among friends who might forget theirs!
20. Dental Floss
Is it just me or is nothing worse than having food stuck in your teeth and you don’t have floss?? I would definitely include a pack of floss in my survival because it’s compact and SO useful.
Plus it’s a great way to freshen your breath in a pinch.
21. Emergency Cash
Emergency cash is a smart addition to any school survival kit because it covers unexpected things like buying a snack or paying for a forgotten bus fare.
If you lose your wallet or it gets stolen, having cash ensures you’re not left stranded.
It’s also a handy backup if you run out of money on your prepaid card or forget your lunch money.
Just keep a small amount – enough to handle minor expenses – so you’re prepared (without carrying too much).
🧠 FAQ: Backpack + Comfort Kit Essentials for School Girls
Look for items that will help them out when they’re in a tricky situation at school, like period essentials (pads, tampons, or a menstrual cup), lip balm, personal wipes, chocolates/snacks, pain relievers, deodorant, hair ties, hand sanitizer, a small mirror – and a big pouch to keep everything together (like a cosmetic case!).
A period survival kit for school should include a few pads and/or tampons (or menstrual cups/panty liners, depending on preference), spare underwear / period underwear, flushable wipes or feminine wipes, hand sanitizer, pain relief like ibuprofen, a small chocolate or comfort snack, and a zippered pouch or case to store everything discreetly.
You can also include an extra pair of leggings or shorts if needed!
Comfort essentials for school include earbuds for focused study or downtime, a soft hoodie or sweater for cold classrooms, a hairbrush or compact comb, chapstick, lotion (especially in colder seasons), and even a mini essential oil roller (like lavender or peppermint) for stress relief. Adding a small makeup bag with oil blotting sheets, lip gloss, concealer, or mascara is great for a quick refresh. Don’t forget snacks, a reusable water bottle, and blue-light glasses if you’re staring at screens often!
Creating a well-rounded school emergency kit can make your school days smoother and less stressful. By including these essentials in your kit, you’ll be prepared for any minor situation that comes your way 🌸
Remember, being prepared is key to staying confident and focused on your studies.
Happy packing, and have an amazing school year in 2025!
This post showed you everything your tween or teen needs for a school survival kit.
If you liked this post, you may also like:
- 21 Aesthetic Dorm Room Decor Ideas To Transform Your Space
- 27 Unforgettable 19th Birthday Ideas That Are Actually Fun to Do
- 2025 College Life: Top 20 Mini Fridges Every Dorm Room Needs
- 60 Dorm Room Essentials For 2025 You’re Going To Love
- 15 Dorm Room Tech Gadgets To Make Your Life Easier
- 56 Viral TikTok-Inspired Gifts for Every Aesthetic in 2025 (So Good You’ll Want Them All)
- 21 Neutral Dorm Room Decor Ideas You Will Love
- 45 Summer Nail Ideas for 2025 (Trendy, Easy, and Cute!)
- 30 Trendy Nail Designs for 2025 to Try Before Everyone Else
- 20 Ways To Decorate A Woman’s Bedroom You’ll Obsess Over
- 26 Gifts For Your New Boyfriend He Will Totally Love
- 66 Valentine’s Day Gift Basket Ideas For Teen Girls (She Will Obsess Over!)
- 67 Best Christmas Gifts for Teen Girls That Will Make Her Love You
