As you pack up your old life and put it into boxes and duffel bags, put aside an extra box for a health kit. Even though your health is probably the last thing on your mind as you’re getting ready to go to college, you’ll find that having the following supplies on hand will make your life there easier. One of these days you’ll thank me for this list—like when you have a pounding headache at one a.m. and you don’t have to go looking for an all-night pharmacy, because you have all the pain relievers you need right there in your health kit; or when your roommate twists her ankle racing down the stairs to class and you’re the only one in the dorm with an instant ice pack; or when there’s a power outage across campus, and you’ve got a working flashlight.

“The Complete College Girl’s Health Kit” is specifically designed for female students going off to college for the first time. It contains all of the basics necessary to keep you safe, healthy, and well taken care of while away from home.

STOCKING YOUR KIT

First, you’ll need a large and roomy box—not as big as a laundry basket, but maybe about the size of two shoe boxes. Next, you’ll need to go shopping at a drugstore for the following supplies: