Essential School Supplies For A Successful School Year

It’s that time of the year again when carts get filled, bags get packed, and every aisle in the bookstore gets a little more crowded. Yep, back-to-school season is officially here.

Whether your child is heading to the classroom or logging in for online learning, having the right school supplies makes a big difference. A complete school supplies list isn’t just about staying organized, it helps students stay focused, creative, and ready to learn.

Here’s your ultimate back-to-school guide for 2025, organized by category to make shopping easier (and a little more fun).

Stationery

These are the basics every student needs, no matter what grade they’re in.

• Notebooks – Lined, grid, dotted, or composition notebooks are perfect for jotting down lessons or doodling on the side. Choose spiral notebooks for easier flipping or hardbound ones for durability. Pro tip: color-code by subject to make grabbing the right one faster.

  

  

• Filler paper / pad paper – A classic must-have for quizzes and handwritten homework. Get the appropriate sizes (short, intermediate, or long) depending on grade level and school requirements.

• Binders and folders – Keeps handouts and worksheets neat and sorted. Go for sturdy plastic or flexible covers depending on how often they’ll be carried around. Clear folders are useful if teachers ask to see contents quickly.

• Index cards – Handy for memorizing key points or prepping for oral reports. Choose 3×5 size for versatility and easier storage. Bonus: hole-punch them and add a ring to keep things together.

• Sticky notes – Perfect for quick reminders or marking important textbook pages. Get different sizes and colors for better organization. They’re also fun to use as mini to-do lists.

• Dividers and tabs – Help break down binders or notebooks by subject. Reusable plastic tabs are more durable than paper ones. Use labels or color coding to make flipping between subjects faster.

• Desk organizers – Keeps your workspace tidy, especially for those studying at home. Choose stackable or drawer-type organizers depending on your desk space. A clutter-free space helps keep the mind clear, too.

Writing Materials

These tools get used every single day, so having a good stash is always a good idea.

• Ballpoint pens – Blue, black, and red are the staples. Look for quick-drying ink to avoid smudges, especially for left-handed writers. Buy in bulk—you’ll be surprised how fast they disappear.

• Gel pens or sign pens – These make handwriting look clean and polished. Ideal for labeling, journaling, or when neatness matters. They’re smoother to write with but tend to run out faster.

• Pencils (No. 2 or mechanical) – Ideal for math problems and drawings. Mechanical pencils are mess-free and don’t require sharpening. Just make sure to bring extra lead!

• Erasers – The softer ones erase better and don’t leave marks. Try white erasers for clean removal without tearing the paper. Keep one in every pencil case as you never know when you’ll need it.

• Sharpeners – A sharp pencil makes all the difference. Look for ones with a container to catch shavings and avoid mess. Some models even have dual holes for different pencil sizes.

• Highlighters – Bright colors help with reviewing and remembering key ideas. Dual-tip highlighters offer both thin and thick tips for flexibility. Try using different colors for headings, keywords, and definitions.

• Markers (whiteboard or permanent) – Useful for labeling, projects, or group presentations. Check if your school uses whiteboards so you can bring your own marker. Permanent markers work well for labeling books and lunch containers.

Arts and Crafts Supplies

These aren’t just for art class, they’re often required for projects and creative schoolwork too.

• Crayons – Great for early learners and creative assignments. Choose non-toxic brands with a wide color range. The jumbo ones are easier to grip for smaller hands.

• Colored pencils – Ideal for coloring maps, charts, or diagrams. Get a set with a sharpener or invest in quality ones that don’t break easily. Some brands offer erasable colored pencils too.

• Markers – Good for bold titles and decorating projects. Washable markers are best for younger kids. Thicker tips are great for posters; fine tips for details.

• Watercolor or poster paint – Often required in art classes or poster-making contests. Buy basic sets with primary colors to mix more shades. Include a palette or mixing tray for easier cleanup.

• Paintbrushes – Pick a set with different sizes for better control. Synthetic brushes are easier to clean and dry faster. Round tips are better for detail; flat tips for broad strokes.

• Glue stick / white glue – Stick things together without the mess. Glue sticks are better for paper; white glue works for heavier materials. Always cap tightly to avoid drying out.

• Scissors – Make sure to get kid-safe ones if needed. For older students, a sharp pair helps with precision. Look for ergonomic handles for long crafting sessions.

• Ruler – For straight lines, measuring, and drawing diagrams. A clear plastic one helps you see what’s underneath. Metal rulers are more durable for cutting straight lines with a cutter.

• Craft paper – Includes cartolina, colored, and construction paper. Stock up on assorted colors for versatility. Great to have on hand for last-minute projects.

• Sketchpad or drawing book – Required in many schools for art class. Choose thicker paper if watercolor or markers will be used. Spiral-bound pads make it easier to tear out pages cleanly.

• Stapler and staples – Keep projects or reports neatly compiled. Compact staplers fit easily in pencil cases and are great for group reports. Don’t forget to stock up on extra staples.

• Puncher – Needed for inserting papers into binders. A single-hole puncher is handy for attaching documents with fasteners. Two-hole versions are more common for standard binders.

• Tape (masking, double-sided, scotch) – Useful for crafts and projects. Masking tape is great for labeling, while double-sided is best for clean mounting. Scotch tape works best for everyday use.

School Bags and Organizers

Carrying everything comfortably and safely matters more than you think!

• Backpack – Choose one with strong zippers and padded straps. Multiple compartments help organize books, gadgets, and lunch with less hassle. A water-resistant bottom is a bonus during rainy days.

Planning for older students too? Check out our article on the Best Backpacks for High School and College Students.

• Lunch bag or lunch box – Keeps snacks and meals fresh. Insulated options are best, especially in the hot weather. Look for ones that fit inside the backpack for easy carrying.

• Pencil case – No more digging through bags for a pen. Get one with compartments or elastic loops for better organization. Hard cases offer more protection, while fabric ones are lighter.

• Water bottle or tumbler – Staying hydrated is key during long school days. Look for BPA-free, leak-proof bottles with a flip-top or straw. Some come with time markers to encourage more drinking.

• Umbrella or raincoat – Especially useful during rainy season. A lightweight, foldable one fits easily into any school bag. Bright colors or fun prints can make them less likely to be forgotten.

Tech and Gadgets

For students doing hybrid learning or tech-heavy coursework, these tools help them stay connected and productive.

• Tablet or laptop – Useful for assignments, research, and online classes. Choose based on your child’s grade level and software needs. Don’t forget to install essential apps or educational tools. 

Check out our article on Best Laptops for Students for different grade levels

• Earphones or headphones – Essential for quiet focus or attending online classes. Opt for noise-cancelling headphones if learning in busy environments. Wired ones are generally more budget-friendly.

• Power bank – Keeps devices running all day. Check for fast-charging options and compact design. Look for ones with multiple ports if your child uses more than one gadget.

There are lots of options out there. To make it easier, we’ve rounded up a list of Best Powerbank Brands for you to choose from.

• Calculator (basic or scientific) – Required in many math and science subjects. Check your school’s guidelines before purchasing. Some schools recommend specific models.

• Mouse and mousepad – Makes navigating easier, especially for research and reports. Wireless mice reduce desk clutter while ergonomic mice enhance comfort. A smooth mousepad improves speed and accuracy.

• Laptop sleeve – Protects your device from scratches and bumps. Water-resistant sleeves are great for commuters. Some sleeves also come with pockets for accessories.

Final Tips: Build A Smart School Supplies Checklist

• Check the school’s requirements – Some schools have their own lists, so use this as a base.
• Buy early – Avoid last-minute stress and out-of-stock items.
• Label everything – Especially for younger students. Things tend to get lost!
• Stick to what’s needed – It’s easy to overbuy. Focus on the essentials first.

Whether you’re preparing for the first day of grade school or gearing up for college, this school supplies list can help you start the year right. Happy back-to-school shopping!