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 made of weatherproof black nylon with heavy-duty zippers and padded straps.

Pros: Sturdy Great color Roomy Durable Comfortable
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

A rugged green polyester kids' backpack with reflective details, water bottle pocket, and multiple organizer compartments.
Lunch Box, Print

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

A durable blue nylon lunch box with insulated, BPA-free lining and an internal mesh pocket for ice packs.
Junior Original Book Pack, 17L, Print

A weatherproof, multi-color printed polyester backpack with reflective details, organizer pockets, and a water bottle holder.
Junior Original Book Pack, 17L

A durable, weatherproof 17L nylon backpack with reflective material, perfect for young students.
L.L.Bean Original Book Pack®, 24L

A rugged black nylon backpack with weatherproof fabric, padded straps, and reflective details for visibility.

Pros: Practical for school and travel Durable and sturdy construction Spacious and roomy High quality materials Comfortable to wear
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.
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

An expandable black nylon lunch box with insulated lining and extra space for added convenience.

Pros: Great quality Can hold multiple items Roomy Sturdy fabric Holds shape well
Expandable Lunch Box, Print

An expandable, multi-color insulated lunch box made from durable packcloth with a BPA- and PVC-free lining.
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.
Super Deluxe Bookpack, 38L
Price was from: $69.95 now: $59.99

A spacious blue backpack made from weatherproof nylon-polyester with dedicated laptop storage and ergonomic support.
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.
L.L.Bean Continental Rucksack, Color Block

A durable, recycled nylon rucksack with hydration/laptop sleeve, fleece-lined pocket, and padded shoulder straps.
Comfort Carry Laptop Pack, 24L

A sleek black 24L backpack with padded laptop sleeve, ideal for daily adventures and school.
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.
Bean's Explorer Backpack, 25L, Print

A versatile 25L backpack made from weatherproof recycled polyester with fun multi tie dye print.
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, 25L

A rugged, multi-color backpack made from weatherproof recycled polyester with dual water-bottle pockets and laptop compartment.
Comfort Carry Laptop Pack, 36L

A versatile 36L kids' school backpack in classic navy nylon with padded laptop sleeve and multiple pockets.
Kids' L.L.Bean CamelBak Eddy+ Insulated Water Bottle, 12 oz.
Price was from: $25.95 now: $22.99

A durable, spillproof 12 oz. insulated water bottle with a drink-through straw and fun citron geo design.

Best Back To School Essentials

Heading into a new school year is always a time of anticipation, whether you’re sending your youngest off to kindergarten, helping a middle schooler find their stride, or watching a high schooler step confidently into a new grade. August brings a special kind of energy—mornings that start a little earlier, backpacks waiting by the door, and the promise of crisp notebooks and sharpened pencils. Choosing the right back-to-school essentials can help smooth the transition and set everyone up for success. For families, it’s about finding items that are durable enough to handle the daily rush, comfortable enough for long days, and versatile enough to keep up with activities that change from classroom learning to after-school adventures. Parents often look for gear that’s easy to organize and simple to use, so kids can take responsibility for their own things—whether it’s a lunchbox that keeps snacks fresh or a backpack with plenty of pockets for everything from books to water bottles. Reliable, well-made essentials also make thoughtful gifts for students, teachers, or anyone heading back to a learning environment, offering both practical support and a sense of encouragement for the year ahead.

For students heading off to college, the list of essentials expands to include items that help transform a new space into a comfortable, functional home away from home. Bedding that’s soft and easy to care for, storage solutions that keep small spaces tidy, and gear that can handle both late-night study sessions and weekend outings all become part of the equation. As families prepare for move-in day, it’s helpful to focus on versatile pieces that offer lasting value—things that can be used in a dorm room, an apartment, or even brought back home for breaks. College-bound students appreciate products that are not only practical but also reflect their personal style, helping them feel settled and ready to tackle new challenges. For more inspiration tailored to this exciting transition, be sure to explore our dedicated collection of Back To School College Essentials, where you’ll find ideas designed with campus life in mind.

No matter the grade level, the right back-to-school essentials can make a real difference in daily routines, helping everyone feel more prepared and confident as the year begins. From gear that stands up to the wear and tear of busy schedules to clothing that’s comfortable for everything from gym class to group projects, it’s all about finding pieces that fit seamlessly into real life. The season’s change brings opportunities for fresh starts and new experiences, and thoughtful choices now can help keep mornings running smoothly and afternoons filled with possibilities. Whether you’re shopping for your own family, picking out a practical gift for a student or teacher, or simply looking to refresh the basics, quality essentials are a reliable companion for the journey ahead—ready for every lesson, adventure, and memory the school year brings.