Yes, we know it's still Summer, but before you know it, you'll be heading to high school. Aside from picking out the perfect first day outfit and making sure you've got your favourite snacks [1] on hand, come back to school armed with all your supplies. Yes, there are the basics, like notebooks, pens, and backpacks, but any student knows that you can't just have any old pencil. There are certain products that make us feel like we can take on anything the classroom might throw at us, and when you're walking in on your first day, any extra confidence boost is always appreciated.
These are what we'd like to call the high school essentials. A great, high quality notebook is a must, a physical planner is surprisingly useful, and the right backpack [2] is a game changer. Plus, every high school student needs headphones, a laptop, and a calculator that can do practically anything. School is stressful enough [3], don't let back to school shopping get you down. Keep reading to shop our picks, and you'll have your best year yet.
For even easier shopping, click below to shop by category.
- Backpacks [4]
- Gadgets [5]
- Locker Supplies [6]
- Notebooks [7]
- Pens, Pencils, and Highlighters [8]
Backpacks
This Fjallraven Kanken Backpack [10] ($80) comes in so many fun colours.
Herschel Supply Co. Daypack Backpack
You can't go wrong with this classic Herschel Supply Co. Daypack Backpack [11] ($40).
Ban.do Go-go Backpack
Everyone will know that this Ban.do Go-go Backpack [12] ($48) is yours.
State Kane Backpack
This vibrant metallic State Kane Backpack [13] ($85) is such a good pick.
Herschel Supply Co. UO Exclusive Classic Mid-Volume Light Backpack
This Herschel Supply Co. UO Exclusive Classic Mid-Volume Light Backpack [14] ($45) is so lightweight, which makes lugging around textbooks that much easier.
Gadgets
These Apple AirPods with Charging Case [15] ($145, originally $159) are going to save your life this year. They're so easy to connect to your phone or computer, and make listening to podcasts, music, or even lecture notes that much more seamless.
Acer Aspire Laptop
If you need a laptop that isn't too expensive, this Acer Aspire Laptop [16] ($250) is a top pick.
Texas Instruments Nspire CX CAS Graphing Calculator
If you get one thing in high school, make it this Texas Instruments Nspire CX CAS Graphing Calculator [17] ($169). Life will never be the same.
Samsung Chromebook Pro Convertible Touch Screen Laptop
You can use this Samsung Chromebook Pro Convertible Touch Screen Laptop [18] ($476, originally $550) like both a laptop and tablet, which is so convenient.
Beats Solo3 Wireless On-Ear Headphones
If you need silence when you study, reach for these Beats Solo3 Wireless On-Ear Headphones [19] ($160, originally $300).
Locker Supplies
Keeping your locker organised will help save your sanity. We like this simple Janus Locker Shelf [20] ($25).
Gold Magnetic Locker Bin
Keep pens, lip balm, notebooks, or whatever you like in this Gold Magnetic Locker Bin [21] ($6).
Locker Style by UBrands Steel Magnetic Weekly Locker Dry Eraseboard
Write down important tests or quizzes on this Locker Style by UBrands Steel Magnetic Weekly Locker Dry Eraseboard [22] ($4).
Locker Style by UBrands 9ct Square Locker Magnets
Hang pictures and important papers with these cute Locker Style by UBrands 9ct Square Locker Magnets [23] ($4).
U Brands Locker Organiser and Decorating Kit
Need a whole set? This U Brands Locker Organiser and Decorating Kit [24] ($20) has a shelf, mirror, white board, magnets, and pen holder.
Notebooks
Write down everything you need in this Ban.do Classic 17-Month Academic Planner [25] ($20) that's compact enough for you to take anywhere.
Five Star Spiral Notebook, 1 Subject, College Ruled Paper
Every subject should have it's own Five Star Spiral Notebook, 1 Subject, College Ruled Paper [26] ($6).
Moleskine Classic Large Hardcover Notebook
If you like a smaller notebook, this Moleskine Classic Large Hardcover Notebook [27] ($20) is essential.
Get it Together File Folder
Keep papers for different subjects organised with this Get it Together File Folder [28] ($20).
Ban.do Rough Draft Large Notebook
You'll smile every time you pull out this Ban.do Rough Draft Large Notebook [29] ($10, originally $16).
Medium 17-Month Academic Planner
If you like a giant planner, this Medium 17-Month Academic Planner [30] ($28) will help you get all your work organised.
Pens, Pencils, and Highlighters
If you're known for losing pens (us too), this BIC Round Stic Xtra Life Ballpoint Pen [31] ($5, originally $13 for 60) is a game changer.
Ban.do Write On Pencil Set
Smile when you're doing maths, thanks to this adorable Ban.do Write On Pencil Set [32] ($10).
Ban.do Write on Highlighter Set
Three highlighters, six colours. How fun is this Ban.do Write on Highlighter Set [33] ($10)?
Ban.do Write on Gel Pen Set
Colour coordinate your notes with this rainbow Ban.do Write on Gel Pen Set [34] ($10).
BIC Brite Liner Highlighter
These BIC Brite Liner Highlighters [35] ($4) are this editor's personal favourite.
BIC Velocity Max Mechanical Pencil
If you can only use a mechanical pencil, theseBIC Velocity Max Mechanical Pencils [36] ($4, originally $7) are the ones to get.
uni-ball Vision Elite BLX Infusion Rollerball Pens
These uni-ball Vision Elite BLX Infusion Rollerball Pens [37] ($7, originally $12) are so easy to write with.
Ban.do Le Pen 10-Pack
Who doesn't love coloured pens? Grab these Ban.do Le Pen 10-Pack [38] ($18); you'll use them all year long.