How to Pack a Backpack for a Socially-Distanced Gathering

Wondering what things to pack when meeting up with friends for a socially distanced gathering? This guide will help you stay safe and prepared.

Hanging out with your friends may look a little different this year, but that doesn't mean it can't be done. With the right supplies and gear, you can make sure everyone stays safe while having fun. This guide will show you what to pack, what to pack it in, and how to organize your must-haves in preparation for your next socially distanced gathering, whatever it may be.

What To Bring

Whether you’re planning a socially distanced backyard hang, a day at the beach, a picnic, or even a car meetup, you’re going to need a few things to help ensure you and your friends stay safe. Before you get together, pack sanitizer, water bottles, alcohol wipes, tissues, extra masks, pre-packaged snacks, a blanket or towel, and any other PPE you think you may need in your bag. This way, once you get to your meetup, you will already have the essentials on hand and will be all set to enjoy yourself from a safe distance. You won't have to risk asking anyone for extra supplies—and as a bonus, your friends will think you’re so thoughtful for planning ahead.

What to Carry Everything In

When deciding what bag to carry your items in, it’s important that you consider comfort, ease of use and of course, the number of pockets. Both the Hatchet and Big Student backpacks are big enough to fit all your must-haves—and stylish enough to make a statement while you’re at it.

If you’re looking for more flexibility and are worried about being able to access your essentials at a moment's notice, consider adding a waist pack to your socially distanced gathering kit. The Fifth Avenue waist pack is a great hands-free choice. One JanSport customer raves in a review: “It's crazy cute and the perfect size . . . Basically all the essentials fit in there no problem.” With the combination of a backpack and waist pack, you’ll be able to carry a bunch of items on your back, while still being able to quickly and easily get to your sanitizer, wipes, and extra masks.

Organize Your Supplies

It’s time to take advantage of all those pockets! Rather than shoving everything into the main compartment of your backpack, try to organize all your items so you’ll be able to access whatever you need quickly. After all, you don’t want to be fumbling around for PPE when you really need it. Your bag’s front zipper pockets and side water bottle holders are great for storing hand sanitizer, snacks, or extra masks—and you can always clip a travel-sized bottle of sanitizer to the straps too. It may take a few extra minutes to get organized, but trust us, you’ll be glad you prepared ahead of time.

Psst, if you really want to make sure your friends stay safe, you can always gift them socially distanced backpack kits of their own. Then, get ready to make some amazing new memories together!

By: Courtney Sprewer