Sorority Recruitment can be overwhelming, and on top of that, having to worry about what to put in your rush bag can make sorority recruitment even more stressful. I know I searched endlessly for exactly what rush bag essnetials I needed to pack in my tote bag for sorority recruitment so my goal was to provide that list for you. I truly hope this helps you prepare for recruitment!
Hey, y'all! My name is Isabella, and I’m a college student learning how to navigate adulthood right alongside you!! Today, I will tell you exactly what you need in your tote bag for sorority recruitment week as a potential new member.
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What is a rush bag?
But first, let's define a rush bag and why you should have one.
A rush bag is a medium-sized handbag, or a tote bag, to hold all your recruitment information and other little essentials for rush week. It's not just a bag; it's your emergency kit and secret weapon for staying fresh between parties.
I seriously believe this is a necessity, and everyone should have one. I used multiple items in my bag before every single party, y'all; it's so helpful!! Whether you want to put the bare minimum essentials in your bag, which is totally fine, or if you're someone like me who loves to be prepared for every situation, a rush bag is beyond helpful.
Every school does sorority recruitment a little differently, so you can adapt your bag to the circumstances you will be in. For example, bring comfy shoes and an umbrella if you're walking. Overall, your rush bag contains the items shown below.
Does my rush bag have to be fancy?
Contrary to popular belief, there is no need to spend much money on a nice bag for rush! I was one of those people who thought I needed a nice, new, expensive bag.
However, the sorority girls never even see your bag; you leave it outside with all your belongings (phone, especially), so the girls at the parties never even see it.
That being said, it is wise to invest in a bag that fits all your needs in size or number of pockets. This way, it can benefit you, but there is no need to spend much money on it.
What do I put in my rush bag?
Beauty & Skincare
oil blotters for face
It was miserably hot during sorority recruitment, so these were necessary. They are essential to make sure your face doesn't look oily before parties.
These are definitely useful to have in your rush bag if the state you are going through recruitment in is as hot as Alabama!
Spray deodorant
Need I explain this one? These travel spray deodorants are compact, easy to store, and allow quick application before entering a sorority house.
mini Brush
A travel-sized brush is a must to freshen up! Consider bringing a wide-tooth comb if your hair is curled.
Bring a brush, comb, etc. Adapt this rush bag to what works for you!
Perfume
A travel-size perfume is perfect for adding a quick spray before parties.
You can even fill up your own perfume of choice with the refillable travel container I have linked below.
TIP: Keep all the items you will use consistently before each party in one small bag so you don't forget anything!
Dry Shampoo
If you get hot or sweaty during sorority recruitment, this is the perfect thing to spray in your hair to make sure your hair stays presentable and voluminous.
other
Towel
This will be to sit on in between parties to help keep your outfit pristine!
At least for my recruitment process, we had to wait outside between parties, so I used this to sit on the ground and make sure not to mess up any of my outfits.
Plus, it's adorable to use for any future lake or beach trips!
Handheld fan
This is necessary if you're going through recruitment somewhere where it will be hot outside.
I used mine every. day. before literally every single party. This is a necessity! Seriously, if you buy one thing from this post, let it be this! And the best part is that you can also use it after recruitment for football games, and more!
Personal care
Hand sanitizer
Sorority recruitment can be a lengthy process, so maintaining your health is essential.
Snacks
You might get hungry if you attend multiple parties in one day, so be sure to include some easy snacks.
These are my favorites! And, of course, you can also include an apple or an orange to eat for natural energy. I have linked below some of my favorite healthy snack options.
Water bottle
This is self-explanatory, but still, make sure you are actually drinking the water. Again, you must stay healthy and do not want to pass out during parties (trust me, it happens)!
portable charger
I have both of these and love them both! A portable charger is just a good thing to keep in all bags at all times.
Mirror
This will help you touch up your makeup in between parties!
Shoes
I recommend wearing or bringing comfortable shoes. This is because you will be walking between parties or from your car or dorm to the sorority houses, and it can be painful when doing so in heels.
These aren't cute, but are definitely comfy! Any flip flops, slippers, tennis shoes, or whatever is most comfortable to you.
Fashion tape
I recommend bringing fashion tape or an extra sticky bra if it's hot where you're rushing. And always pack extra in your bag! It will be hot, so you may need to replace your fashion tape if you sweat too much.
Mints
I recommend mints, not gum, so you aren’t chewing gum in a party. Chewing gum in a party isn't polite, and I do not recommend it.
Tissues
It is self-explanatory and just a good essential to keep in your bag.
Umbrella
Keep some rain gear on hand, just in case!
Rain jacket
Again, a reminder to bring some kind of rain gear.
Notebook
It is great to take notes between parties. It is helpful to write down how you felt in the houses, what was your favorite thing, your least favorite, etc. Feel free to exempt a physical notebook if you plan to jot down notes on your phone instead.
Pens
This is to use when writing in your notebook.
Bandaids
I recommend throwing some of these in your bag, especially if you'll be walking a lot!
Medicine
Keep any kind of medicine you may need on hand in case of a headache.
Energy drinks
I recommend bringing an energy or caffeinated drink if you need a pick-me-up between parties since you have to talk so much!
You could also throw an energy drink packet with a water bottle in your bag, which would be easy.
I hope that this post helped you learn exactly what you need to pack in your rush bag for soroirity recruitment! If this post was helpful then I know that my post about 14 Must Know Sorority Recruitment Tips And Advice.
With Love,
Isabella XO
