As the back-to-school season approaches, it’s time to get everything your little ones need for a successful year ahead. It’s important not to break the bank, so we’ve curated a list of affordable essentials that combine quality, functionality, and fun, ensuring your kids are equipped with the best gear to thrive in the classroom. From lunch gear to creative storage solutions, these budget-friendly items will ensure a smooth transition back to school.
Learning Resources Create-a-Space Storage Center ($22.99, Amazon)
If kids are new to school, keeping their workspace organized can be a challenge.
This carousel-style storage center features eight removable containers, allowing kids to store a variety of items, from pens and markers to scissors. Each container comes with a handle, allowing kids to easily grab the one they need and return it to its designated place when they’re done.
RTIC 20oz Journey Water Bottle ($13.99 and up, Amazon)
Every kid needs a water bottle and we love these because they keep beverages cool for up to 24 hours, thanks to ceramic insulation.
The bottles come in a broad range of fun patterns and colors, are leakproof, durable, have a flip-up straw, and a recessed handle for carrying or clipping to a backpack.
Dakine GROM 2.0 13L Backpack ($55, Amazon)
My daughter used this backpack for a full school year and it still looks like new!
This 13L backpack is the perfect size for little kids.
It has functional storage sections, including a roomy center, a padded laptop sleeve, and mesh side pockets for water.
These sturdy backpacks also have straps on the front where your student can lash a lunch box or even a skateboard!
Sun Bum Kids SPF 50 Clear Face Stick ($13.49, Amazon)
While the weather’s nice, the kids will be outside during recess and for sports after school. You can encourage them to apply SPF in the morning before they leave, but by the time break time rolls around, they’ll need a touch-up.
This portable, weather-resistant stick goes on clear, so users can simply glide it on and go play! I also love this product for adults – a strategically placed swipe adds a dewy glow to the face. For the morning application, I like the Kids SPF 50 Clear Sunscreen Spray ($18.49, Amazon), a non-aerosol, water-resistant spray for the face and body. I like to spray it on my hand first and then apply it. The vegan, cruelty-free, and Hawaii Act 104 compliant products are dermatologist- and pediatrician-tested.
Neco Bags Snack & Sandwich Bags ($20, Necobags.com)
It’s time to ditch the baggies and opt for an easy, eco-friendly option, like these Foodie Bags. The set comes with one sandwich and one snack-sized bag, but there are also sets with two sandwich bags or two snack bags.
These bags are easy to use, machine washable, and come in lots of fun colors and patterns that your kids will love. They are made with eco-friendly, non-toxic materials, including the only CPSIA-certified and food-safety-tested recycled PUL fabric, according to the brand.
Art2theextreme Spanish Crayon Stix ($29.95 for a set of 9 solid colors, Etsy.com)
Easy-to-grip Spanish Crayon Stix feature the colors in Spanish, adding educational fun to your kids’ crayons this year.
A former teacher created art2theextreme crayons, and the brand continues to be at the top of Etsy’s best-selling gifts for kids and is an Etsy Design Award Finalist.
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