Like you, I probably read every single college packing list that was on Pinterest during the summer before my freshman year. I have found that there are some things I didn't really realize were essential until I found myself using them every single day. Below are 10 items that I will most definitely be bringing back with me for sophomore year.

Erin Condren LifePlanner

First, let me say that not all planners are created equal. I have tried the cheap Target ones and others but I started using an Erin Condren planner in high school and have loved them ever since. They are seriously the best. I just bought my third one and I couldn't be happier with it. The company really listens to their customers' feedback and so every year the planner gets better and better! This planner is a little more expensive but definitely worth it because it has durable laminated covers, a strong metal coil that keeps it together, and customizeable covers and the layout. This planner has space for school work, extracurriculars, and everything else.

Sunglasses

You may be thinking that this is an obvious one and that everyone has sunglasses. I did, and I kept them all in my car. I never needed them during the day in high school because I was always inside one building, but in college I walk all over campus daily. It is so important to protect your eyes from UV light and the extra strain that comes from light reflecting off concrete. Plus you won't have to squint all the time, which is a plus. Save your eyes for reading and studying (and the occasional binge-watch of "Parks and Rec").

Chacos

I love my Chacos. I absolutely adore them. They support my feet (and my ridiculously high arches) and I wear them everywhere. These are essential for walking around campus every day. Trust me when I say that the cute little flat, barely-there sandals that we all love to wear will betray you when you've been walking from building to building for five hours. I personally think Chacos are cute, and they let your feet breathe, which is fabulous on a hot Texas day. And, like the Erin Condren LifePlanner, you can customize them if you want!

Laptop

This may seem obvious as well, but a good laptop will get you far. Don't fall victim to ads for cheap laptops that will break at the drop of a hat. Whether it's a term paper or online math homework, a reliable laptop is essential in college. Mac or PC? Personally, I love my PC, but you should talk to people in your department about which one is best for you and your major. Also be aware that Macs can't run some Windows programs, like the database Access, which I used frequently in an Information Systems class.

Extra-long phone-charging cord

My dorm last year had two sets of plugs on my wall. Two. Needless to say I used multiple surge protectors (those are on every list I've ever seen) to make sure I had enough plugs for my computer, printer, lamp, clock, etc. I also slept on a lofted bed, so the regular iPhone cord was no longer cutting it. I found a 9-foot cord that allowed me to use my phone in bed when it was charging.

Super soft bed blanket

If you're like me and you enjoy hunkering down in bed to read or watch some Netflix, you know that a really soft blanket is necessary to wrap up in. I bought mine at Bed Bath & Beyond and I love it. I brought it home with me every time, even for just a weekend.

File Folders

I first saw these ideas on Sarah Belle's YouTube channel in a "What's in my school bag" video, so I definitely owe this one to her. I used binders all throughout high school but I did not want to cart around all those heavy things in college. So instead, I followed her advice and got a file folder from Target. Each class got its own section, as well as Chi Omega, scantrons, and extra notebook paper. It's all in one place, contained, and organized.

Notebooks

I also bought a five-subject notebook, and gave one "subject" to each of my classes. It was very helpful because, again, everything was in one place and I never had to worry about grabbing the wrong notebook or not having the right one with me when I had free time to study. To make it fun, I also decorated the covers with pictures of my friends. Thanks @sarahbelle93x for the great idea!

Baseball caps

I couldn't wear caps to class in high school but am so happy that I get to do so now. Having a bad hair day? Cap it. Running late and didn't have time to wash your hair? Cap it. Worried about getting a sunburned scalp? Cap it. I love my caps. There are some really cute ones out there, like this seersucker one from Southern Marsh that I bought last summer. Get a couple of caps, and thank me later.

Backpack with good shoulder and back support

When you're walking around all day with a laptop, notebook, file folder, and maybe even a textbook or two, you're going to want a backpack with good padding and support. I bought a North Face one and it's great. I have friends with Patagonia, Nike, Columbia, and other brands. The brand doesn't matter -- the support and the comfort that your back gets are more important.