Zero Stress Back-to-School Shopping List

Getting ready for a new term doesn’t have to be chaotic. With a clear plan, you can nail your back-to-school shopping without breaking a sweat. Here, we’ll help you prepare with our back-to-school supplies list of must-have gear. Let’s dive in.

Writing supplies for students

Writing supplies are, of course, key for students of any age. Ensuring you have a healthy supply of pens and pencils will mean there will always be one handy, no matter how many have been lost or “borrowed”.  

Here is our list of must-haves writing supplies: 

  • Pencils 
  • Pens 
  • Highlighters and markers 
  • Rubber 
  • Coloured pencils 
  • Pencil sharpener 
  • Ruler 

Writing supplies for students

Writing supplies are, of course, key for students of any age. Ensuring you have a healthy supply of pens and pencils will mean there will always be one handy, no matter how many have been lost or “borrowed”.  

Here is our list of must-haves writing supplies: 

  • Pencils 
  • Pens 
  • Highlighters and markers 
  • Rubber 
  • Coloured pencils 
  • Pencil sharpener 
  • Ruler 

Essential blank study materials

Notebooks and blank paper are essential for the new school term, helping students stay organised and ready for all types of lessons. From taking notes to completing homework and sketching ideas, these materials support a wide range of tasks. Having the right supplies from the start sets a strong foundation for a productive and successful year. 

Be sure to check out our essential blank study materials, you will need: 

  • Notebooks 
  • Printer paper 
  • Graph paper 
  • Index cards for revising 
  • Sticky notes 

Organisers & dividers

Ensuring you have all of the above will mean that the foundation of your back-to-school shopping is set. Many major stationery retailers will offer a great range of stationery options for students of all ages, so you can rest assured that you have the basics covered.  

Make sure you aren't missing anything with our checklist: 

  • Binders 
  • Dividers with tabs 
  • Folders with plastic sleeves 
  • A planner or diary 
  • Desk organiser 

Organisers & dividers

Ensuring you have all of the above will mean that the foundation of your back-to-school shopping is set. Many major stationery retailers will offer a great range of stationery options for students of all ages, so you can rest assured that you have the basics covered.  

Make sure you aren't missing anything with our checklist: 

  • Binders 
  • Dividers with tabs 
  • Folders with plastic sleeves 
  • A planner or diary 
  • Desk organiser 

Choosing the right back-to-school bag & accessories

No back-to-school season would be complete without a great backpack or school bag. Big or small, printed or bright or low-key and monotone, the options are endless. The best bags will be the right size for the job and so check out our guide on the best backpack sizes for school students so you ensure you have got all the space you need. 

Check out the zippers and hardware for durability too, snagged or stuck zippers can derail a day fast. For wheeled bags, test the wheels on different surfaces to ensure they roll smoothly and won’t jam. Don’t overlook water resistance: a water‑repellent finish protects books if it rains. Finally, opt for reflective accents or bright colours to boost visibility on dark mornings. A little extra safety goes a long way. 

Style and fabric choices 

A rainbow of prints, solids, pops of colour and more await. Choose a bright pattern to stand out or a monochrome shade for a sleeker look. Fabrics range from classic nylon to recycled polyester; both are durable and easy to clean.

Our bags & accessories checklist for back to school

Be sure to check out our bags & accessories checklist to make sure you have everything you need: 

  • Pencil case 
  • Backpack or bag 
  • Wallet or purse (with sleeve for a bus pass) 
  • Lunch box or bag. Choose a box that seals tightly to avoid spills or an insulated lunch bag to keep food cool. 
  • Reusable water bottle. Choose leak‑proof, BPA‑free bottles. 
  • Laptop sleeve or case 
  • Tech pouches or a multi‑use pouch for things like chargers, earbuds, and USB sticks 
  • Toiletry bag (handy for after‑school sports or field trips) 
  • Bum bags are perfect for carrying snacks or small essentials 

Our bags & accessories checklist for back to school

Be sure to check out our bags & accessories checklist to make sure you have everything you need: 

  • Pencil case 
  • Backpack or bag 
  • Wallet or purse (with sleeve for a bus pass) 
  • Lunch box or bag. Choose a box that seals tightly to avoid spills or an insulated lunch bag to keep food cool. 
  • Reusable water bottle. Choose leak‑proof, BPA‑free bottles. 
  • Laptop sleeve or case 
  • Tech pouches or a multi‑use pouch for things like chargers, earbuds, and USB sticks 
  • Toiletry bag (handy for after‑school sports or field trips) 
  • Bum bags are perfect for carrying snacks or small essentials 

Tech for the modern student 

It is always worth looking for refurbished electronics, including laptops and headphones. It’s a more sustainable and affordable option for tech products and you usually can’t tell them from new.

Laptop protection 

Of course, if you are getting some new tech, it’s best to make sure you keep it protected. Laptop backpacks have padded sleeves and separate compartments so your tech stays safe and avoids scratches. Kipling’s laptop backpacks also include extra pockets for cables and pens, so you’ve got everything you need without digging. 

Take a look at our tech must-haves for a new school year: 

  • Calculator (basic or scientific) 
  • USB 
  • Headphones or earbuds 
  • Laptop or tablet (if required) 
  • Chargers for all devices (if you’ve got lots, label cords with sticky tags so they don’t get lost!) 
  • Portable charger 

Gym kit & drawstring sports bags

On gym days, you might want to swap the backpack for a drawstring bag. Kipling drawstring sports bags are super light, pack down flat, and have an interior zip pocket to keep small items safe and together. Pick a bold print or a solid neutral to match team colours. 

This checklist will ensure you have all the essentials: 

  • Sportswear 
  • Sports shoes 
  • Sports equipment (as needed) 
  • Shower essentials, such as a quick-drying towel 
  • A lightweight drawstring sports bag 

Gym kit & drawstring sports bags

On gym days, you might want to swap the backpack for a drawstring bag. Kipling drawstring sports bags are super light, pack down flat, and have an interior zip pocket to keep small items safe and together. Pick a bold print or a solid neutral to match team colours. 

This checklist will ensure you have all the essentials: 

  • Sportswear 
  • Sports shoes 
  • Sports equipment (as needed) 
  • Shower essentials, such as a quick-drying towel 
  • A lightweight drawstring sports bag 

Art and project supplies

While all standard art materials are available from the many stationery retailers, older students might be more inspired by specialist art stores, which provide a wealth of art supplies for all skill levels. 

Our checklist covers everything any aspiring artist will need: 

  • Paints 
  • Paint brushes 
  • Sketch pad 
  • Canvas 
  • Scissors 
  • Glue 
  • Tape 

Master back-to-school essentials

You might not need everything on the list, so be sure to use our master list to draft your own. With your personal back-to-school checklist, you can tick items off as you buy or pack them. 

Keep the list on your phone or fridge for quick reference so you can check it day by day as you’re working through your list. 

Also, don’t forget to involve your child in the planning process, especially if they’re younger. It’s a great way to get excited about the new term. Go through old uniforms and shoes, checking for fit and condition. You can lay items out on the bed to visualise what’s needed. And if you don’t already have one, set up a dedicated homework station at home, with clear desk space, good lighting, and easy access to school supplies. 

With a little planning, back-to-school season can be a fun, exciting time. From grabbing essential stationery to investing in the perfect school backpack, you’re all set for back-to-school with zero stress. 

Master back-to-school essentials

You might not need everything on the list, so be sure to use our master list to draft your own. With your personal back-to-school checklist, you can tick items off as you buy or pack them. 

Keep the list on your phone or fridge for quick reference so you can check it day by day as you’re working through your list. 

Also, don’t forget to involve your child in the planning process, especially if they’re younger. It’s a great way to get excited about the new term. Go through old uniforms and shoes, checking for fit and condition. You can lay items out on the bed to visualise what’s needed. And if you don’t already have one, set up a dedicated homework station at home, with clear desk space, good lighting, and easy access to school supplies. 

With a little planning, back-to-school season can be a fun, exciting time. From grabbing essential stationery to investing in the perfect school backpack, you’re all set for back-to-school with zero stress.