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One of the fun parts about going back to school is filling up your new backpack with the best back-to-school supplies. Whether you're starting high school with a clean slate or simply replacing a few missing essentials before studying abroad for a semester, there are key items that you absolutely need to have.
On our school supply list, you'll find useful things for the classroom and dorm rooms, from cute and functional trendy backpacks to basics like highlighters and notebooks. The most popular items tend to be pens, notebooks, and laptops, but we couldn’t resist adding a few mood-boosting sticky notes and adorable desk decor (look at this toaster lamp) to help keep you motivated throughout the school year.
Keep scrolling to discover the non-negotiable items to throw into your backpack and more offbeat back-to-school supplies to add to your shopping list ASAP.
Must-Have Back-to-School Supplies for 2024
- Best for elementary school: Baggu Lunch Box, $34
- Best for middle school: Easthill Big Capacity Pencil Pen Case, $16
- Best for high school: Rocketbook Smart Reusable Notebook, $32
- Best for college: Sony WH-CH720N Noise Canceling Wireless Headphones, $150
- Most popular back-to-school item: SAKURA Gelly Roll Stardust Gel Pens, $13
1. Backpacks
Backpacks are essential, but not all of them are made equal. We rounded up a few super-cute bags (that we also tested) that are as cute as they are functional. We’re especially obsessed with the TikTok-loved Fjallraven. It comes in just about every color and size you can imagine, including mini!
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2. Pencil Cases
Soothing baby llama, anyone? Yoobi might be the cutest pencil case we've ever seen so it's not surprising that it's one of Amazon's bestsellers. If you prefer a more understated (but equally cute) option, this Easthill one has plenty of space for pens, pencils, markers, erasers, paper clips, and even a tiny stapler and staples. If you’re on the hunt for something with more space and a cute design, this option from Baggu is perfect for holding tons of supplies—and even makeup!
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3. Ballpoint Pens & Pencils
Nothing beats writing on paper with a smooth ballpoint pen or freshly-sharpened pencil (Ticonderoga 4eva!). These bulk sets will keep you stocked up all semester long. If you’re looking for something with a little more flair, we found some cute gel pens that’ll make all your class notes sparkle.
4. Pencil Sharpeners
From colored pencils to your standard 2.0, pencil sharpeners are a must in every school bag. If you’re looking for a cheap manual twister, this 3-pack from Amazon is perfect. You can keep one in every workspace or share them with your siblings. If you’re more of an automatic sharpener fan, this option from Bostitch won’t let you down. It’s a best-seller for a reason!
5. Mechanical Pencils
Do you hear that? It's the sound of a satisfying click as you see how far the lead can go before snapping. This BIC 26-count pencil set is such a good deal and comes in great colors. Or if you’re looking for something with an extra cushioned grip, these Staples pencils are another great option.
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6. Notebooks
From standard college-ruled notebooks to personalized journals made by Etsy creators, these notepads will keep all your to-dos, thoughts, and doodles safe all year round.
7. Sketch Pads
Taking an art class for the first time? You'll need more than just glue sticks and construction paper. You'll also need to invest in official art supplies, starting with a proper sketch pad.
8. Highlighters
Raise your hand if you like to highlight and underline everything when you're studying. If you are team colors when it comes to notetaking, these will come in handy (and look amazing on your desk!)
9. Pushpins
Every corkboard needs a set of super adorable push pins. These cute selections are not only functional, but they’ll bring a smile to your face every time you see them.
10. Folder Sets
How cute are these loose-leaf paper folders? If we were to take them out of our backpacks, they would definitely make us smile—even if they contained study materials for a chemistry quiz.
11. Planners
Keep your school and personal life on track with these highly-photogenic planners. Trust us, they are game changers and will help make sure you never miss a homework assignment, exam, or practice. Here’s to staying organized this school year!
12. Lunch Bags
Everyone in the cafeteria will want to know where you got these very chic lunch bags and Bento boxes from.
13. Permanent Markers
Permanent markers are a must in any back-to-school supplies list. These are also a great supply to donate to your teachers, who use them endlessly to mark up papers and label supplies.
14. Sticky Notes
Sticky notes are a must-have for memos and study guides. Make yours even more fun to look at with these super adorable options.
15. Wite-Out
Everybody makes mistakes, everybody has those days. May as well be prepared and stock up on the super-satisfying-to-dispense Wite-Out tape and correction fluid.
16. Tablets
If you don't want to carry your laptop everywhere you go, a powerful (and fast!) tablet is key. Both the Amazon Fire and iPad are great options that are super compact and reliable.
17. Pastel Keyboards
Putting aside the Bluetooth functionality, these keyboards make working on long essays and work projects a little bit more fun. From the variety of fun colors to the clacking as you type, these might just inspire you to work even more…
18. Stain Remover
Stains? What are those? Be prepared to be the group hero by always having a spare stain remover in your locker. The pen and spray versions are also great to store in your purse or backpack.
19. Bookmarks
Never underestimate the power of a good bookmark. From holding your place in the latest English class novel to keeping track of where you are in your work planner, these babies will make sure you never flip to the wrong page again.
20. Phone Case
Your phone case is an extension of your fashion aesthetic, so make it count by choosing a pattern that speaks to you. We’re particularly obsessed with these picks that’ll help protect your phone in case it falls out of your hand.
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21. Phone Strap
We see many cute mirror snaps in your future.
22. Headphones
From Sony-loved noise-canceling wireless headphones to Denon's soundproof earbuds, these headphones are great for listening to music and tuning out outside noise (like when your super loud roommate is around).
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23. Hair Accessories
This is one of those non-essential school supplies that makes the school year a little more bearable. You can also hook these claw clips to the strap of your backpack when you’re not using them and Scunci's assorted bundle includes 30 pieces, so you won't have to worry about losing one, there are many to go through.
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24. Laptops
It’s a bit of a heftier purchase for the school year, but having a laptop you can take with you to class can make everything so much easier. From note-taking to essay writing and research, these laptops will take your learning up a notch.
25. Binders
Binders are another great way to keep all your schoolwork organized. From simple 1” binders that are perfect for one subject to padded binders for all your classes, these durable organizers are a must-have no matter what grade you’re in.
26. Reusable Water Bottle
A reusable water bottle may be a school essential, but it can also be a form of expression. Want to add stickers? Prefer a clean matte finish? There are tons of different tumblers suited for all your hydration needs, and if you're having a rough day, you can look down at the motivational messages on the Enerbone for a quick pick-me-up boost.
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27. Disposable Face Masks
Whether you like cute prints or neutral shades, these celeb-approved disposable face masks will let you coordinate with your 'fit of the day. These are great to have on hand to keep you and our immunocompromised friends safe throughout the school year.
28. Digital Notebooks
Upgrade your note-taking game with this smart notebook. The Rocketbook gives you the classic feel of a pen and paper, but it's anything but. Instead, it's a digital notebook and all the notes you take in it can be uploaded to your Google Drive, Dropbox, Evernote, Slack, or email. The notebook is also environmentally friendly since you can wipe away your notes with water whenever you're done.
29. Hand Sanitizer
Keep hand sanitizer in your backpack to disinfect your hands (and your friends' hands) when needed. The Touchland Glow Mist smells like a bouquet of roses, though if you're high-key obsessed with Aesop's cult-favorite hand soap like the rest of TikTok, the brand's rinse-free mist is a close second (and a quarter of the price, might we add.)
30. Printers
Printers are a must-have for all your schoolwork. Whether you’re living at home or in the dorms, this is a school supply you can use for years—even after your academy career has ended.
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