What to pack before you leave home

Can’t stand one more minute at home? Before you storm out, if it’s safe, try to make sure you’ve packed everything you need. The Mix asked an expert and young people who’ve left home in a hurry what you should pack.

What you need to fit in your backpack.

What the experts say you should pack

Sarah Webb from Centrepoint says it’s important you take the following:

• Some form of ID, particularly your passport if you can
• Driving licence, or your provisional, if you have one
• Proof of income so you can claim benefits
• If you’re in education, like college, take the ‘learning agreement’ you’re given at the start of your course
• If you’re a refugee, you’ll need your Home Office papers to prove you’re allowed in the country

What other young people said

We asked some of the young people on The Mix’s messaging boards, what they wished they’d packed:

• A toothbrush
• Any sentimental photos
• At least one pair of spare shoes
• Your phone and, more importantly, your phone charger
• A copy of your National Insurance number
• Warm clothes to create lots of layers
• Enough money to cover a week’s food, if you have it
• Things to do to keep your spirits up, like a book, sketchpad or iPod
• A decent sleeping bag
• Extra underwear and socks
• Any medication you’re on
• Bank card, or a bank statement so you have your account details
• Tampons/sanitary towels if you’re a girl
• Contact details of important places, like your GP surgery, dentist, or support worker

Thinking of leaving home but have nowhere else to go? Read our Help, I’m homeless article.