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RCSI | Culture

To tote or not to tote: A guide to finding your perfect medical school bag

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Kimberly Akwenuke Student Contributor, Royal College of Surgeons Ireland
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at RCSI chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.

With a new academic year on the horizon, the hunt for a practical but stylish book bag also begins. For medical students in particular, a reliable suitcase is more than an accessory; it’s a daily companion, tasked with carrying your precious MacBook, heavy textbooks and the occasional stethoscope. Whether you are a seasoned student or a bright-eyed fresher, this guide will give you top tips for bag shopping this semester.

To tote or not to tote is the age-old question when it comes to college bags for girls. Some of us prefer a trendy handbag while others prefer the classic backpack. But what makes the perfect choice? Should you opt for a chic tote bag or stick with a casual backpack? That depends on your preference in terms of style, durability, and convenience. 

Style:

Your bag isn’t just for hauling books; it’s basically your personality with straps. It can be used to express your personal style, signalling to fellow students if you’re someone who gravitates toward the latest trends or someone who prefers a timeless style. Bold colours help you stand out from the crowd, while neutrals pair with every piece of your wardrobe. A tote often says you are effortlessly put together, while a backpack says you value comfort(and your spine). Like it or not, your bag is part of your student identity and something people often associate with you. People may forget your name, but they’ll remember “Oh yeah, the girl with the neon pink tote bag”

Durability:

Remember, style isn’t the only important thing to consider; you also want a bag that won’t fall apart after 2 weeks of carrying Grey’s Anatomy. Medical school demands long days and commutes, so a sturdy bag is a must. Backpacks generally take the lead in durability, offering strong stitching and weight distribution that honestly could last centuries. There’s a reason every stock photo of the “diverse happy group of university students”  features backpacks – they’re the default college survival gear. However, spending the extra money and investing in a well-made tote bag that won’t end up in a landfill 5 years from now is also a great option. At the end of the day, the goal is to consider sustainability, and sometimes spending a little more upfront can save a lot in the long run. 

Convenience:

Finally, practicality is non-negotiable. Think about how much space you really need. Are you a chronic over-packer or an “I’ll just buy it when I get there” type? Backpacks are champions for space and organisation. Providing more room and compartments that you’ll probably forget are even there until exam season. On the other hand, totes win points for easy access, although a little less organisation.

Your bag will be your ride or die through all the chaos of medical school. It’ll carry your books, your snacks and even sometimes your will to live, so choose wisely!

Hi, my name is Kim and I'm a 3rd year medical student from Ireland :)