As summer gradually gives way to the crisp air of fall, back-to-school preparations set in. The mood changes from the holiday excitement to the overwhelming annual ritual of gathering school supplies. Whether you’re a student entering a new grade or a parent preparing your child for the upcoming academic session, getting must-have back to school items ready can set you up for a successful school year. 

In this article, we’ll delve into every aspect of the back-to-school shopping experience, from creating a budget-conscious shopping list to embracing shipping forwarding companies like PostFromUs. Let’s dig in!

Latest Trends and Must-Have Back to School Items

1. Multi-purpose Backpacks

One of the latest trends for pupils and students is the multi-purpose backpack. Everyone wants to have minimal items on the go, so purchasing a backpack with ample compartments to carry tablets, notebooks, and tech accessories like wireless headphones is a great choice.

2. Organizational Tools – Planners and Sticky Notes

Organizational tools like planners and sticky notes are helpful in keeping track of assignments, projects, and extracurricular activities. This ensures you or your child never miss a deadline. 

3. Reusable Smart Notebooks

The traditional notebooks are must-have supplies but it’s easy to lose them or exhaust the blank pages. But reusable notebooks are eco-friendly and save you money. More so, they digitize your children’s handwritten notes and drawings. This adds an element of excitement and can lead to improved focus and retention during class.

4. Erasable Gel Pen

Ink pens require crossing out mistakes or using correction fluid which leads to paper wastage. So whether a child learning how to write or a college student, an erasable gel pen can help in keeping handwritten notes free from mistakes. Also, erasable gel pens save you money by reducing the number of times you replace paper.

5. Reusable Lunch Box and Water Bottle

A reusable lunch box and water bottle keep food warm and help you or your child to stay hydrated all day. What’s more? It reduces food wastage and gives you or your children the option of bringing your own food rather than eating from what’s available at the cafeteria.

6. Stationery

Trendy stationery includes eco-friendly notebooks, pencils, sharpeners made from sustainable wood, and recycled rubber erasers. This provides a personalized touch that’s in vogue and has less carbon footprint to help our environment.

Shopping Guide For Your Back-to-School Items

1. Take Inventory

You were at this point last school year and might have purchased double of some back-to-school items like art supplies or notebooks. Before you buy more, check around the house for any forgotten items to see what’s available. This way, you won’t buy excess of what you already have.

2. Make a List

Once you’ve taken note of what’s available, make a comprehensive back-to-school supplies list. You can keep the list organized by categorizing them. For instance, must-have back-to-school items like backpacks and stationery should be at the top of the list and other items that are not essential can be at the bottom. 

Additionally, you should create space for technology. The world is digital and most schools require specific electronics, such as laptops or tablets. You can add this to the list or put it on a separate sheet alongside other items that require adequate planning. Also, consider investing in protective cases and warranties to ensure the longevity of these devices.

3. Set a Budget

Back-to-school shopping can easily become a costly endeavor if not kept in check and the best way to stay focused is by having a realistic budget. This budget should cover necessary school supplies, clothing, accessories, and any potential expenses like shipping charges if you’re buying from an online store. With this, you’ll make informed decisions and avoid impulse purchases. You can also use an international shipping calculator to get an idea of the charges if you’re shipping from abroad.

4. Prioritize Quality Items

Whether it’s one item on your back-to-school supply list or more, don’t be tempted to go for the cheapest option. Spending on quality items can help you save money in the long run because you won’t have to replace these supplies frequently.

5. Look Out For Special Offers

Look out for special offers, bundle deals, and discounts on the items you need. You also get to save more money this way. You can find some information about special offers by reading up on buying hacks or checking e-commerce shops like Amazon, Etsy, Target, or eBay. Also, If you’re skeptical about shopping online because of your location or are wondering which shipping company is best, PostFromUs can deliver to you.

6. Shop on Time

Aside from avoiding the last-minute rush, you can get better deals and have time for any returns or exchanges when you start your back-to-school shopping early. This will also give you ample time to explore different options because popular items will still be in stock.

7. Involve Your Children

If you’re a parent, get your children involved in the selection process while you guide them toward practical choices. This not only fosters independence and decision-making skills but also makes the experience more enjoyable for everyone involved.

8. Remember the Basics

Amidst all the excitement of shopping for new back-to-school supplies, it’s easy to forget basic supplies like first aid items. Ensure you check other basic but essential things that often go unnoticed until they’re needed.

Back-to-school supplies like multi-purpose backpacks, reusable smart notes, erasable gel pens, and reusable water bottles are essential for a successful school year. Remember, before you start your back-to-school shopping, take inventory of what items you have left from the previous school year. You can then make a list, set a budget, look out for special offers, and place your order. 

If the online store you’re buying from can’t deliver to your location, PostFromUs is available to send your order to you on time. Contact us today!