Handy items Every New Yorker Should Own

How to Be a New Yorker: 13 Handy Items Everyone Should Own New York City is the most populous city in the United States, located at the eastern side of the Hudson River in the state of New York. It has a vibrant culture filled with people from all walks of life. This energy and excitement is unmistakable, but it can also be hard for newcomers to fully understand what it takes to be a true New Yorker.

While having the right items isn’t necessary, there are many things in your life that can make being a New Yorker a bit easier. Here is a list of 12 items every new New Yorker should consider owning:

1. Portable Charger
   Living in a city with a population of over 8 million people, it can be difficult to find places to charge your phone. That is why a portable charger is an essential item for any New Yorker. Whether it’s a long day of work or you’re out exploring the city, a portable charger can be a life-saver.

2. Metro Card
   The metro is the backbone of getting around the city. Owning a metro card will allow you to get from point A to B quickly and easily. Plus, it’s cheaper than owning a car in the city.

3. Reusable Water Bottle
   New York City has some of the cleanest tap water in the world. Bringing a reusable water bottle with you can help you save money on buying plastic water bottles, which is also better for the environment.

4. Umbrella
   New York can get quite rainy, especially during the summer months. Owning an umbrella is an absolute must. Investing in a sturdy umbrella that won’t break when the wind picks up is a good idea.

5. Good Walking Shoes
   Walking is the easiest and most popular way to get around the city. Having a comfortable pair of shoes that you’ve broken in can really make your day to day movements more enjoyable. Don’t forget to buy a good pair of socks as well!

6. Sunscreen
   It’s important to protect yourself from the sun, especially if you’re going to be spending a lot of time outdoors. Sunscreen is an essential item, and it’s always good to have some on hand.

7. Rain Jacket
   Although owning an umbrella can provide a lot of protection from the rain, sometimes it’s not enough. Having a rain jacket with you is always a good idea in case the rain picks up.

8. Reusable Grocery Bag
   New York City has banned plastic bags so it’s important to bring a reusable one with you whenever you go to the grocery store. It’s a small way to help reduce your carbon footprint.

9. Late-Night Snacks
   The nightlife in New York City is something that is unrivaled. Being out late can be great, but it can also mean getting hungry. Having some snacks on hand can help stave off hunger until you can get a real meal.

10. Laptop
    Laptops are essential for a ton of tasks such as work, communication, online classes/ meetings and much more. With a laptop, you can be productive no matter where you are in the city.

11. Multipurpose Tool
    New Yorkers are busy people, and they need to be prepared for any situation. Having a multipurpose tool like a Leatherman or a Victorinox knife can help you out of many sticky situations.

12. Respirator Mask
    Due to the many factories and vehicles in New York City, the air can be quite polluted. Investing in a respirator mask is a good way to protect your lungs from harmful particles in the air.

13. Noise-Canceling Headphones
    The hustle and bustle of New York City can be quite overwhelming at times. Having a pair of noise-canceling headphones can help you focus and block out all of the outside noise.

Living in New York City can be an incredible experience, but it can also be daunting for some. Having the right items can make the transition smoother and allow you to fully enjoy all the city has to offer. With this list of essential items at your disposal, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a true New Yorker in no time.