Recruitment week is a whirlwind – fun, unpredictable, and full of long, hot days. Packing a well-planned rush bag ensures you’re ready for anything, from long walks between houses to sudden weather changes and last-minute outfit fixes.
Your rush bag, aka PNM bag or sorority recruitment bag, will become your survival kit with essentials for staying fresh, confident, and put together during those long, busy days.
With input from many who’ve been through recruitment week, our list of 25+ must-haves for your rush bag is below. Bookmark this list to have it ready when you need it.
First, check to see what is being provided for Rush Week. Many Panhellenic organizations provide a basic bag and a few items to all potential new members.
Tip: Be sure to make your rush bag unique so you’ll be able to easily locate yours. Add a monogram or attach a decorative scarf or ribbon.
If one isn’t provided here are a few good options:
1. Dry Shampoo – A travel-size can of dry shampoo works wonders to refresh sweaty hair before walking into a new house.
2. Deodorant- A travel-sized deodorant is a must to stay fresh through the summer heat and nervous sweats.
3. Oil Blotting Sheets – These are essential for quick touch-ups after being out in the heat.
4. Lip Balm– Keep your lips soft and hydrated, especially helpful if you’re talking all day.
5. Lip Shimmer or Lip Oil – Moisturizing plus a little color and shimmer.
6. Compact Mirror – A quick check between rounds can give you peace of mind that everything’s in place and you are looking your best.
7. Flat Claw Clip – When the heat kicks in, and you need to cool off in between rounds, a clip lets you pull it all back quickly—without messing up your style.
8. Perfume – A quick spritz of your favorite scent in between rounds is a great idea, especially if you are sweaty.
9. Towel – A small towel gives you a clean, dry place to sit between rounds, especially helpful on campus lawns.
10. Breath Mints or Breath Strips – With lots of close conversations, fresh breath is a must. Strips are more discreet (and faster) than gum.
11. Small Hair Brush – Always good to have on hand.
11. Water Bottle – Staying hydrated is key. A lightweight bottle that keeps your water cold all day is a must-have on these warm summer days.
12. Blister Bandages – Blisters happen, especially when you have to wear heels. Keeping a few on hand may help to avoid painful distractions during conversations.
13. Flip Flops – Keep an inexpensive, comfy pair in your bag for walking between rounds or heading back to your dorm. If you have long walks and room in your bag, consider bringing your favorite sneakers and socks. Your feet will thank you!
14. Ibuprofen – Headaches, cramps, or soreness from standing all day? Pack a travel-size bottle of ibuprofen just in case.
15. Protein Bars or Snacks – Long days, lunches with strangers and new friends might not leave you much time to eat. Keep a few snacks in your bag to fight off tired and hangry moments.
17. Mini Fan – Recruitment often takes place in sweltering heat, especially down south. A small, handheld or portable fan can help you stay cool. Use this one hands-free around the neck, or adjust it to sit on a flat surface. This is another smaller, cute mini fan option! And don’t forget, these are perfect for tailgates and gameday!
18. Umbrella – Sudden rainstorms are bound to happen, so a small umbrella will help save your hair and outfit.
19. Rain Poncho – If a full-on downpour is expected, a clear poncho > umbrella, or maybe consider the combination of the two.
20. Sheer Non-Greasy Sunscreen – This will work for face and body. You will be outside a LOT!
21. Sunscreen Mattifying Setting Powder – Need to reapply sunscreen AFTER you’ve put on makeup. This is a little splurge but a good solution.
22. Portable Phone Charger – You’ll be snapping pics, checking schedules, and texting friends. Don’t let a dead phone slow you down. Love this one in cute colors with a built-in USB-C cable.
23. Notebook and Pen – A small notebook and pen are perfect for taking notes after each house. By the end of the day, the details blur together.
24. Tide Pen – Accidental spills during lunch? A Tide Pen can be a lifesaver for keeping your outfit looking polished between rounds.
25. Fashion Tape – Wardrobe mishaps can happen. Double-sided fashion tape keeps everything in place and stress-free.
26. Safety Pins – Wardrobe malfunctions happen! Blouse’s gap and straps break. A couple of safety pins can save the day!
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Rush week is a whirlwind, but packing a few essentials can make a big difference. With a well-stocked rush bag, you’ll be ready for anything, from sudden bad weather to unexpected blisters. Whether you are preparing for your first house or your final preference round, having these 25 items in your bag means one less thing to worry about.
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Mackinnley says:
Great advice
Susan says:
Any recommendations on a good rush bag?
Jessica Brown says:
First have her check to see if one is being provided as part of Rush Week. Keep the bag simple but unique – it’ll likely have to get left outside the houses during parties. I’ve added a few extra choices to the top of the article!