No matter which side of sorority recruitment you will be on this coming August, there are several things every girl needs in her tote bag!

1. First of all, you need a really good tote bag.

The LL Bean original boat and tote bag is my all-time favorite. It is a simple and cute canvas bag that can hold anything and everything all while being super study and easy to clean. Don't worry about spills in this bag — it's got your back!

2. A hairbrush

It gets hot out there, and lets face it, back sweat is a real thing. If your hair is down, it will probably be getting a little damp and will tangle like no other. Grab your best brush and get to detangling!

3. Face powder

My favorite face powder is by Clinique because it will matte out the shininess of your face and is good for your skin. Reapplying is huge between parties because trying to look your best in the Southern heat is harder than all the other girls make it seem.

4. Coffee Filters

Patting away your sweat should definitely be on your "Right before the doors open for the next party to-do list" because, girl, it's probably worse than you think. Granted, we're all in the same boat so it doesn't really matter. I refer to this as "Rush Goggles". Coffee filters are perfect for patting your sweat away gently because it won't smear your makeup, and it won't leave behind any little pieces of paper like a tissue would.

5. Mints

Choose your favorite mint and buy three packs. Mints are better than gum because you can digest them and they act quicker. I would also add eating a mint to your "Right before the doors open for the next party to do list" because a huge part of rush is conversation. All you do all day long is talk and talk and talk. It's almost like a huge speed dating convention, and bad breath isn't good for good conversation.

6. Snacks

Girls, sorority recruitment can be rough. Treat yourself and eat your favorite snacks. Another reason for snacks? They'll remind you to eat. Don't let the stress get to you and you forget to eat (and drink water!) and then you pass out in the middle of the party. While no one will judge you, it isn't very good for your health. So be sure to eat eat eat and replenish that H2O!

Some last-minute, but not totally necessary things would be a mirror, some perfume, a camera, a portable phone charger, flip flops and some headphones. Just make sure you can call your mom and enjoy the journey!