Best Back To School Essentials

Best back to school essentials make it easy to start the year with confidence and comfort. From sturdy backpacks to versatile layers, these must-haves are designed to help students stay organized, prepared, and ready for every adventure the school day brings. With quality and lasting value in mind, each piece is made to handle busy schedules, changing weather, and all the excitement of a new year. Find everything you need for a smooth transition from summer fun to classroom success.

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L.L.Bean Deluxe Book Pack®, 37L

A nearly indestructible 37L kids' backpack in red nylon with padded straps and multiple compartments.

Pros: High quality Great color and design Durable and sturdy Roomy and spacious Comfortable fit
L.L.Bean Deluxe Book Pack®, 37L, Print

A durable 37L kids' backpack in fresh mint prism print with weatherproof polyester/nylon and ergonomic straps.

Pros: Spacious design Multiple compartments and pockets Attractive print and colors Durable construction Comfortable fit
L.L.Bean Original Book Pack®, 24L, Print

An ocean blue camo kids' backpack with padded straps, reflective material, and a 24L capacity.

Pros: Perfect size Quality Durability Roomy Cute design
Lunch Box, Print

A durable, multi-color printed polyester lunch box with insulated, BPA-free lining to keep snacks cool.

Pros: Durable and high quality Spacious and roomy Fun, colorful designs Easy to clean and kid friendly Keeps food and drinks cool
Lunch Box

A durable blue nylon lunch box with insulated, BPA-free lining and an internal mesh pocket for ice packs.

Pros: Attractive color and design options Keeps food cool and fresh Perfect size for kids and lunch containers Easy to clean and dries quickly Durable, reliable, and high quality
Junior Original Book Pack, 17L, Print

A weatherproof, multi-color printed polyester backpack with reflective details, organizer pockets, and a water bottle holder.

Pros: Perfect size for young children Attractive and cute designs Comfortable and easy to use Durable and well made Spacious with good organization
Junior Original Book Pack, 17L

A bright neon pink, 17L nylon backpack with reflective material, perfect for young students.

Pros: High quality Perfect size Durability Roomy Comfortable
L.L.Bean Original Book Pack®, 24L

A rugged purple nylon backpack with padded straps, water bottle pocket, and reflective details for active kids.
Flip-Top Lunch Box

A rugged, insulated nylon lunch box in alloy gray with a water-resistant lining and adjustable shoulder strap.

Pros: Keeps beverages cold or warm Cute print Sturdy material Comfy and warm Great fabric
Flip-Top Lunch Box, Print

A fully insulated, water-resistant polyester lunch box with a colorful print and adjustable shoulder strap.

Pros: Fun and colorful design Perfect size for lunch and snacks Well made and lightweight Spacious and roomy Adjustable and comfortable strap
Comfort Carry Laptop Pack, 30L

A versatile 30L backpack in blue nylon with padded laptop sleeve and multiple storage options.

Pros: Attractive appearance Durable and sturdy Spacious and roomy Comfortable to carry Lightweight design
Expandable Lunch Box, Print

An expandable, multi-color insulated lunch box made from durable packcloth with a BPA- and PVC-free lining.

Pros: Expandable size provides extra space Fits Bentgo Kids style box Multiple zipper pouches for organization Attractive patterns and design Durable construction and heavy duty zippers
Comfort Carry Women's Laptop Pack, 30L

A versatile 30L backpack in classic navy with a women's-specific fit and durable nylon polyester construction.
Comfort Carry Laptop Pack, 42L
Price was from: $109 now: $89.99

A rugged brown 42L nylon backpack with side-access laptop storage, breathable mesh straps, and multiple organizer pockets.
Super Deluxe Bookpack, 38L
Price was from: $69.95 now: $49.99

A spacious blue backpack made from weatherproof nylon-polyester with dedicated laptop storage and ergonomic support.
Mountain Classic Cordura Pack, Mini, 18L

A tough, mini Cordura nylon pack in deep olive or nectarine with a tablet sleeve and water bottle pocket.
Comfort Carry Laptop Pack, 24L

A sleek black 24L backpack with padded laptop sleeve, ideal for daily adventures and school.
Comfort Carry Laptop Pack, 36L

A versatile 36L kids' school backpack in classic navy nylon with padded laptop sleeve and multiple pockets.
L.L.Bean Continental Rucksack, Color Block

A durable, recycled nylon rucksack with hydration/laptop sleeve, fleece-lined pocket, and padded shoulder straps.
Bean's Explorer Backpack, 25L, Print

A versatile 25L backpack made from weatherproof recycled polyester with fun multi tie dye print.
Bean's Explorer Backpack, 25L

A rugged, multi-color backpack made from weatherproof recycled polyester with dual water-bottle pockets and laptop compartment.
L.L.Bean Continental Rucksack

A black nylon rucksack featuring a hydration/laptop sleeve, fleece-lined pocket, and reinforced 600-denier bottom.
Bean's Explorer Backpack, 32L

A weatherproof blue backpack made from recycled polyester/nylon with multiple pockets and reflective safety piping.
Discovery Top Loader Pack, 27L
Price was from: $54.95 now: $34.99

A weatherproof, multi-color backpack made from recycled polyester/nylon with rucksack features and reflective trim.

Best Back To School Essentials

Heading into the school year—whether it’s the first day of kindergarten or the start of a new semester at college—calls for reliable essentials that help make every day more comfortable, organized, and enjoyable. As autumn settles in and routines take shape, having the right gear can make all the difference. From sturdy backpacks built to carry the weight of textbooks and daily supplies, to notebooks and folders that keep assignments tidy and easy to find, these basics are the unsung heroes of a successful school year. For students of all ages, the right writing tools—like pens, pencils, and highlighters—are indispensable for jotting down notes, highlighting key information, and bringing creative projects to life. A pencil pouch or organizer helps keep everything in its place, making it easy to find exactly what you need, right when you need it. And when it comes to personal care, items like tissues and hand sanitizer are always good to have on hand, especially during the busy fall months.

Lunch boxes and water bottles are everyday essentials, keeping meals fresh and hydration close at hand from the classroom to the playground or campus quad. Comfortable sneakers are another must, ready for everything from gym class to long walks between classes. For older students, especially those heading off to college, the list of essentials grows to include dorm-friendly items like laptops, headphones for focused study sessions, and planners to keep track of assignments and activities. Power strips and protective sleeves for electronics help keep devices charged and safe, while organizational tools like binders and graph paper make it easier to manage a busy academic load. Many of these items also make thoughtful, practical gifts—perfect for students starting a new chapter or for families looking to set their kids up for success. As you check off your list, remember that every item serves a purpose, helping students feel prepared, confident, and ready to take on a new season of learning. For those looking for college-specific recommendations, be sure to visit our Back To School College Essentials page for more ideas tailored to campus life.

FAQs

Essential organizational tools for back to school include durable notebooks, sturdy folders, and spacious binders to keep class materials sorted. Planners are also helpful for tracking assignments and important dates, while pencil pouches keep writing supplies neatly in one place.

Comfort starts with a well-designed backpack that distributes weight evenly, supportive sneakers for all-day wear, and a water bottle to stay hydrated. Choosing items made from soft, long-lasting materials can help students feel at ease and focused from the first bell to the last.

Popular back to school gifts include lunch boxes with fun designs, insulated water bottles, personalized notebooks, and tech accessories like headphones or laptop sleeves. These items are both practical and meaningful, making them great options for students starting a new grade or heading off to college.

A dedicated lunch box keeps food fresh and organized, while a sturdy water bottle encourages regular hydration throughout the day. Both items help students maintain healthy habits and make lunchtime more enjoyable, whether at school or on the go.

For dorm life, students benefit from essentials like laptops, headphones, power strips, and protective sleeves for electronics. Organizational bins, planners, and comfortable bedding also help make the transition to campus living smoother and more enjoyable.

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Best Back To School Essentials