Commuting with nursing books

[bubbly79]

I am starting a LPN program in September. I have all of my books and supplies but I'm running into a problem. How will I transport all of these books on the train. I considered getting a rolling book bag and have another small bag on my back and split up the books between the two bags. What have some of you all used/ done? I'm concerned about the bag ripping/ injuring myself. I live in NYC and take the train and have a bit of a walk to the school. Another caveat, digital books aren't allowed.

Any suggestions?

[RunnerRN2015, ASN, RN]

We don't need any of our nursing books in class so the only thing I bring is my binder with the powerpoints.

[aTOMicTom]

Our instructor recommended a "cube" which has wheels, not sure if it'd withstand a real commute's bumps, though. Office supply stores have them.

She also said if you have friends who are into scrapbooking, they'd probably have a rolling organizer or two they'd want to get rid of, since scrapbookers get bigger and better ones as they need to carry more stuff. My wife is into it and indeed she has two old ones!

I'd look at LL Bean, their backpacks are guaranteed for life!

Also you may want to contact several students from past sessions to see what books they really used versus which stayed home.

[DisneyNurseGal, BSN, RN]

I would not buy anything until school starts. My school does not require books to be brought to class everyday. If there is a book we need for class it will be on the syllabus or will be announced in class prior.

[bubbly79]

Hi guys thanks so much. We were already given the supply list DVD told we have to bring all of our books first day of class. we have lockers, so I think of it like a "moving in" day. I have 14 books, including the reference guides and basic nursing texts which are monsters. I have to go up several flights of stairs at two train stations (one has an elevator) and several flights of stairs at school. A bit intimidated. I almost ripped my book bag shy of three texts (they couldn't fit). So a cube or scrap booking organizer, I will look into it. These sound promising.

Any other suggestions? What have been your experiences?

[RedHeaded2bNurse16]

I would even try a small to medium size suitcase. A lot of the girls in my class are using them.

[bubbly79]

I was thinking that as well and securing them with a bungee so they won't get damaged. :-)

[CDEWannaBe]

On the train a suitcase will work much better than the rolling cube. A suitcase will keep it all contained and is way easier to manage on the escalators.

[bubbly79]

Do you think a rolling upright luggage? Or maybe like the rolling totes? I saw some that looked like briefcases on wheels. This is a good idea, have to see it in person and check out the capacity.