Back-to-school shopping doesn't have to be expensive. I put together this list of affordable school essentials that are actually useful for students, teachers, parents, and even student-athletes. Every item is under $25 and was chosen because it's pr...
Sections
6
School Supplies
Organization
Backpack Essentials
Tech Accessories
Student Essentials
Student Athlete Favorites
School Supplies
The right school supplies can make a huge difference in staying organized and prepared from the first day of school to the last. These are dependable classroom essentials that students use every day, whether they're taking notes, completing homework,...
The gold standard of pencils. They sharpen easily, write smoothly, and last much longer than cheaper brands.
Ticonderoga Wood-Cased #2 HB Pre-Sharpened
These are my favorite everyday pens. They write incredibly smooth, dry quickly, and come in great colors for note-taking.
Paper Mate InkJoy Gel Pens, Black, 0.7mm
Perfect for studying, organizing notes, and color-coding assignments without bleeding through most paper.
Sharpie Tank Highlighters, Chisel Tip, 12 Colors
Great for classrooms, home study spaces, calendars, and whiteboards.
EXPO Low Odor Ultra Fine Dry Erase Markers
Durable covers and quality paper make these one of the best notebooks for students
Five Star 5-Subject Spiral Notebook, College Ruled
Simple, reliable, and perfect for classes that require composition books.
Excellent quality for school projects, art assignments, and creative work.
Colored Pencils
Bright colors that parents appreciate because they wash off skin and clothing.
Crayola Ultra Clean Fine Line Markers 12ct
A classroom staple that's easy to use and less messy than liquid glue.
Elmer's® .24 oz. White Glue Sticks - Set of 30
Comfortable grip, sharp blades, and built to last through the school year.
Fiskars 7" Student Scissors for Kids 12-14
Organization
A little organization goes a long way during the school year. These products help students keep track of assignments, class materials, and important paperwork while reducing clutter at home, in lockers, or in backpacks.
Keeps homework, permission slips, study guides, and important papers neatly organized in one place.
Accordion File Organizer
Makes it easy to separate subjects and quickly find notes when it's time to study.
Binder Dividers
Keeps pencils, pens, chargers, and small supplies from getting lost inside a backpack.
Pencil Pouch
A simple way to stay ahead of assignments, quizzes, and important deadlines.
Weekly Planners
Perfect for reminders, bookmarks, studying, and staying organized.
Post It Notes
Backpack Essentials
These everyday essentials make school days more convenient. Whether it's staying hydrated, packing lunch, or carrying daily necessities, these are backpack staples that students will use throughout the year.
Keeps drinks cold for hours and is durable enough for everyday use.
Water Bottle
Helps keep lunches fresh until lunchtime without taking up much space.
Reusable Ice Packs
Leakproof compartments make packing lunches easy and mess-free.
Lunch Boxes
A smart lunch bag with built-in cooling technology that eliminates the need for separate ice packs.
PackIt: Freezable Lunch
Easy to toss in a backpack and perfect for staying clean throughout the school day.
Hand Sanitizer Travel Size
Tech Accessories
Technology is part of everyday learning, whether students are working in the classroom, studying at home, or attending college. These affordable accessories help protect devices and make them easier to use.
A dependable charger that's great for phones, tablets, and other electronics.
Anker 65W 3-Port Fast Foldable USB C Charger
Built to last much longer than standard charging cables.
Anker USB C to USB C 60W Fast Charging Cable
Makes schoolwork much easier than relying on a laptop trackpad.
Computer Mice - Wireless Mouse, Bluetooth, Wired
Protects laptops from scratches and bumps while traveling.
Laptop Sleeves
Perfect for storing school projects, presentations, and important files.
SanDisk 64GB Ultra USB 3.0 Flash Drive
Student Essentials
Sometimes it's the small items that make the biggest difference. These everyday essentials help students stay comfortable, prepared, and ready for whatever the school day brings.
A great option for students spending long hours on laptops and tablets.
livho High Tech Blue Light Glasses
Perfect for backpacks, sports bags, or dorm rooms.
General Medi Mini First Aid Kit, 110 Pc
A simple everyday essential that students always appreciate having nearby.
Lip Balm Multipacks - Burt's Bees, Vaseline, eos & More Varieties
Perfect for cleaning hands, desks, or quick messes during the day.
Wet Wipes Travel
Makes studying, watching online lessons, or attending virtual classes much more comfortable.
JSAUX Cell Phone Stand, Foldable Aluminum ...
Student Athlete Favorites
Student-athletes have long school days followed by practices, workouts, and games. These affordable products help with hydration, recovery, organization, and staying prepared throughout a busy season.
A must-have for hot practices, PE classes, and tournament weekends.
Cooling Towels
Perfect for stretching, warming up, and building strength anywhere.
Resistance Bands - Prime Eligible
Makes it easy to stay hydrated or mix a post-workout shake.
Protein Shaker Bottle
Always useful to keep in a sports bag for practices and games.
Athletic Tape
A lightweight way to carry cleats, gym clothes, and other athletic gear.
