Getting ready for a new school year means stocking up on essentials that support learning, organization, and daily routines. From writing tools and notebooks to backpacks and lunch containers, having the right supplies can make a big difference in the classroom. This carefully selected list highlights dependable, student-friendly items that help meet academic demands while offering practical features suited for school environments of all levels.

1. JanSport Big Student 17.5″ Backpack

This full-size backpack offers two large compartments, a front utility pocket with organizer, and ergonomic S-curve shoulder straps. Its capacity suits middle school to college students needing room for books, folders, and tech.

Made of durable polyester, it includes a 15″ laptop sleeve and a padded back panel. The backpack balances storage, comfort, and style with minimal weight.

Pros:

• Spacious dual compartments
• Padded laptop sleeve
• Durable material construction
• Ergonomic shoulder straps
• Variety of colors

Cons:

• No water bottle pocket
• Lacks chest strap support
• Not waterproof material
• Slightly bulky profile
• Limited internal organizers

2. Ticonderoga Pre-Sharpened Pencils (30‑Pack, #2)

This 30-count pack features pre-sharpened #2 pencils made from premium wood. Each pencil has a latex-free eraser and smooth graphite core, ensuring consistent writing output.

Ideal for tests and note-taking, these pencils provide a reliable writing experience and sharpen easily without breaking. The pre-sharpened format adds convenience for immediate classroom use.

Pros:

• Pre-sharpened for convenience

• Strong graphite core

• Soft, clean erasing

• Easy to sharpen

• Smooth barrel texture

Cons:

• Wood may chip

• Erasers wear quickly

• Basic exterior design

• Not refillable

• Limited grip control

3. Paper Mate Profile Ballpoint Pens (8‑Pack, Black)

These bold-tip (1.4mm) ballpoint pens deliver smooth ink flow for bold, clear writing. The soft comfort grip allows for fatigue-free use during long writing sessions.

Each pen contains black ink and a retractable tip for everyday practicality. They are well-suited for note-taking, journaling, or document signing.

Pros:

• Bold, dark ink output

• Soft comfort grip

• Retractable tip feature

• Smooth writing experience

• Pack includes 8 pens

Cons:

• Ink may smudge slightly

• Only black ink included

• Ink may bleed on thin paper

• Large tip not for precision

• Non-refillable

4. Crayola Erasable Colored Pencils (24‑Count)

These 24-count colored pencils feature erasable cores and built-in erasers, ideal for younger students learning art or doing schoolwork. The colors are bright and varied.

The pencils combine creative flexibility with practical correction ability. Each pencil is pre-sharpened and designed to minimize breakage during sharpening or use.

Pros:

• Built-in erasers on each

• Vibrant and varied colors

• Break-resistant lead

• Erases without smudging

• Pre-sharpened for convenience

Cons:

• Erasers wear down quickly

• Slightly hard color core

• Less blendable than regular

• Pencil coating feels slippery

• Paper erasers may tear

5. Crayola Washable Large Crayons (8‑Count)

This 8-count set of large washable crayons is ideal for early learners. The thick barrels offer easy handling for small hands and prevent easy snapping.

The crayons wash off skin and surfaces with minimal effort, and the simple color range supports foundational coloring and creativity skills.

Pros:

• Washable from skin/surfaces

• Thick barrel for toddlers

• Break-resistant design

• Smooth color application

• Basic color variety

Cons:

• Limited color selection

• Not suitable for detail work

• Paper labels may peel

• Blunt tips limit precision

• Too soft for fine lines

6. EXPO Dry Erase Markers, Chisel Tip (4‑Pack, Black)

This 4-pack of dry erase markers features bold black ink and a chisel tip for both broad and fine lines. They work on whiteboards, glass, and most non-porous surfaces.

The low-odor ink formula is suitable for classroom or home use. Each marker has a tightly sealing cap to reduce drying when stored properly.

Pros:

• Chisel tip for varied lines

• Bold, visible black ink

• Low-odor formulation

• Compatible with most boards

• Easy to erase

Cons:

• Ink dries quickly uncapped

• Only one color option

• Cap fit may loosen

• Not refillable

• Can smear under pressure

7. Sharpie Clear View Highlighters (12‑Pack, Multicolored)

This multicolor 12-pack of highlighters features a transparent tip window for precise highlighting. The chisel tip design allows both wide and fine marking.

They’re useful for textbooks, notes, and planners. The ink dries quickly and resists smearing, especially on printed documents or handwritten notes.

Pros:

• Transparent tip for visibility
• Wide and narrow highlighting
• Multiple bright color options
• Quick-dry ink
• Smooth on paper

Cons:

• Caps may loosen

• Not refillable

• Ink may bleed on thin paper

• Window tip can cloud

• Slight odor in ink

8. Fringe Spiral Notebook with Sticky Notes – Rainbow Skies

This notebook combines lined paper with sticky notes in a pastel rainbow design. It’s spiral-bound for easy flipping and contains section dividers for organization.

Ideal for students juggling multiple subjects, the included sticky notes are useful for labeling or reminders. Lightweight and portable, it suits backpacks or desk drawers.

Pros:

• Includes sticky notes

• Fun and colorful design

• Spiral binding for ease

• Section dividers included

• Compact and lightweight

Cons:

• Limited paper thickness

• Soft cover may bend

• No pocket folders

• Not college-ruled

• Sticky notes not refillable

9. All in Motion Adult Bento Box

This compact bento box features two main compartments with a secure lid and interior tray. Designed for portion control, it’s suitable for snacks, fruits, or lunch portions.

It’s BPA-free and microwave safe, making it convenient for packed school lunches. The compact size fits into most lunch bags or backpacks easily.

Pros:

• Divided compartments
• Microwave-safe materials
• Compact and portable
• BPA-free construction
• Snaps closed securely

Cons:

• Not leakproof
• Limited capacity
• No built-in utensils
• Must be hand-dried
• Lid may warp with heat

10. Dealworthy 16oz Clear Water Bottle

A lightweight and compact water bottle with a 16oz capacity, featuring a twist cap and integrated carry loop. Made from BPA-free plastic, it’s suitable for daily hydration at school.

The clear design allows you to monitor fluid levels easily. It’s simple to clean and fits in standard backpack side pockets.

Pros:

• Lightweight and portable

• Clear body shows content level

• Leak-resistant twist cap

• Easy-carry loop

• BPA-free plastic

Cons:

• Small capacity

• No insulation

• Twist cap not child-friendly

• Not dishwasher safe

• Prone to scratches