“Rushtok” took social media by storm in August of 2021 and it is again in 2022. This phenomenon started when sorority members and potential new members (“PNMs”) began posting TikTok videos of their outfits of the day (“OOTD”) and experience during rush/recruitment, especially at The University of Alabama (#bamarush).
I was never a member of a sorority but I am enthralled with the various #rushtok videos being created! As a lover of must-have lists (and planners), I especially can’t get enough of the rush bag videos. In these, girls are sharing what they previously packed in their bags that they carried from house to house, what they wished they packed, or what they are bringing with them this year.
After watching far too many #rushbag videos, I’m sharing my top recommendations! Beyond just for Rush Week, these items are also ideal for any travel bag.
Rush Bag
The perfect Rush Bag is lightweight and big enough to fit everything you need when rushing between sororities, or terminals if using this for traveling!
A Longchamp bag is my top pick for both a Rush bag and a travel bag. I have carried a Longchamp tote with me on just about every trip I’ve been on in the last 10+ years, both via car or plane. The Le Pliage Shoulder Tote is a classic but I also like this expandable style, sold in the NSale year after year, because it’s unique, slightly larger, and being able to adjust the size is practical.
A personalized bag like the trendy Stoney Clover totes or the classic L.L. Bean totes also make for good options.
Tie a cute ribbon around your bag to make sure you always grab the right one. The girls on Rushtok confirmed you have to leave your bags outside of the houses so this helps differentiate your bag from the others.
Since the bags have to be left outside, I would recommend taking a bag that can be easily wiped off or that you don’t mind getting dirty.
Miscellaneous Essentials
A fan is the number one recommendation I have seen in all of the Rushtok videos. If you pack anything, let it be a mini fan!
Comfortable shoes are the second most important thing to pack. Everyone says walking in heels between houses can be brutal so comfy shoes like flip flops or slides will help save you discomfort and blisters.
Speaking of blisters, a first aid kit is a must. You never know when you will need a bandaid so having a small kit you bought or create will come in handy. If you’re making your own, include regular bandaids, blister bandaids, antiseptic ointment and Tylenol or Advil. If you’re a chronic over-packer like I am, throw in bug spray and cortisone cream as well!
An umbrella and packable rain jacket will help protect you and your OOTD from getting wet if a rain shower pops up. I also saw someone say you can also use your rain jacket to sit on if there’s downtime between your parties. If you prefer something a bit more substantial, you can use a towel or yoga mat.
A (fully charged) portable charger is necessary for rushing to sorority houses and for travel! This will save you when your phone is at 1% battery or your fan has died.
An insulated bottle full of ice cold water will keep you hydrated help perk you up between houses!
Pack a notebook and pen to jot down notes after visiting each house. Everyone says the houses blur together so having notes with your thoughts from shortly after the party are helpful when narrowing down your preferences. You could also type up notes on your phone if you find that easier.
Toiletries
A compact mirror to make sure every hair is in place!
Breath mints or spray help your breath stay fresh throughout the day. Pack floss sticks in case you get anything stuck in your teeth.
Deodorant to keep you smelling fresh throughout the day! A travel sizes perfume of body spray is also a good addition.
An anti-chaffing stick will help you stay comfortable with all of the walking you will be doing.
Oil blotting sheets and this oil absorbing roller will help keep your skin from looking shiny without rubbing your makeup. Makeup wipes and q-tips will be good to have on hand as well.
To touch up your makeup once you’ve mattified, a powder will be your best friend. Include a blush, bronzer and mascara if you really want to ensure your makeup stays looking fresh. I also love this cult-favorite Urban Decay setting spray to ensure makeup lasts.
Tip: Apply your makeup with products that are intended for long wear (think wedding makeup which is meant to withstand heat and tears). Be sure to use sunscreen and then apply a good primer. Then use water resistant/waterproof products including foundation, concealer, setting powder and bronzer! Also use waterproof mascara in case of sweat or tears. Make sure to set your makeup with the Urban Decay setting spray to lock it in as best you can from the start.
For your hair, a dry shampoo will be your best friend. I like the Living Proof dry shampoo because it does a great job absorbing oil. A mini hair crush and hair tie – or this brush that functions as well – will help you quickly get your hair under control if your curls fall or if it’s windy or rainy and having your hair down is just no longer feasible. Toss in a hair clip and Bobby pins as well so you have options.
Tip: Store your toiletries in a small bag within your rush bag so they’re easy to grab! Some totes come with one included that you could use. If the bag you’re using doesn’t come with a pouch, I love this Scout bag because it can easily be wiped down should anything get on it. I also purchased this Longchamp bag during the 2022 NSale and love how roomy it is. A customized Stoney Clover bag or similar pouch would work as well, as would makeup bags that occasionally come as free gifts with purchase. I get so much use out of my Tarte and Tula bags that came when purchasing sets!
Rush Tok Essentials Packing List
A comprehensive printable checklist is coming soon to my shop on Etsy!