12 best school items for teens

Backpack? Check. Binders? Check. Calculator? Check. But what about all the stuff in between that’s not immediately necessary but still winds up getting added to your list?

School is officially back in session, but if you want to grab a few extra supplies for your teens, this list is for you.

We tried to think of everything your teen may need to get through school days, from colorful water bottles and bento box lunch trays to super soft comforters and handy portable phone chargers.

An inventive fidget option

School is stressful, and Calm Strips can help. These textured sensory stickers are made with reusable adhesive to safely adhere to books, phone covers, binders, and more. It’s a discreet fidget tool crafted to provide sensory stimulation to regulate restless energy and increase focus.

New kicks (of course)

Teens are all about trends, and Crocs are definitely in right now. And while they might have been sporting them all summer, you can get a pair with fuzzy lining that’s more appropriate for the coming cooler weather.

The comfiest comforter

Teenagers need about 8-10 hours of sleep every night. Make sure they are resting well with a new bedspread. The best-selling Camden comforter from Pottery Barn Teen is reversible and comes in four solid colors.

A cute skin care patch

Pimples happen. Make the most of it with these cheery pimple patches from Starface. These vegan and cruelty-free skin products use hydrocolloid acid to reduce inflammation and draw out toxins.

Vibrant markers for notes, artwork and more

Color code everything with a 24-pack of Sharpie Color Burst permanent markers. Use them on paper, plastic, metal, and most other surfaces. Plus, they have fun color names like Power Pink, Racy Red, Supersonic Yellow, Jetset Jade, and Brilliant Blue.

Rehydrate well with a durable water bottle

Make sure your teen stays hydrated during long days at school, sports practices, and extracurricular activities. This 24-ounce Owala water bottle comes in over a dozen colors. Want more? It also comes in 32 and 40 oz. options. And what water bottle would be complete without some stickers to make it truly yours? Check out this huge pack of hilarious meme stickers that sells for just $10 on Amazon.

Make every lunch time feel upgraded

Sandwiches are so grade school. Bring a more sophisticated lunch that’s fit for a teen with this all-in-one classic lunch box from Bentgo. Each set comes with two separate containers — the top container features two compartments that each hold 3/4 cups of food, while the bottom container holds 2 cups.

Safely stand out with masks in stunning prints

Covid is still a thing, as are colds and flu. Take precautions with a pack of disposable masks. Skip the standard blue for a fun print like these tie-dyed disposable masks in five colors.

Keep it clean with portable hand sanitizer

Speaking of germs, keeping an antibacterial spray in your backpack might be a good idea. When you can’t get to a bathroom to wash your hands, spritz on a few pumps of this Touchland hydrating hand sanitizer. This three-pack comes with frosted mint, lemon-lime, and citrus grove scents.

Keep track of earbuds in an unforgettable case

Keep your Apple Air Pods in tip-top shape with a protective case. This three-pack of funny food-themed silicone protective cases will surely put a smile on your teen's face. Choose from Hubba Bunna Bubble Tape, Takis, or G-Force Gatorade.

Post-it Note art is easier with eye-catching hues

These extra sticky Post-it Notes come in a variety of bold colors and are perfect for keeping track of important info – especially the stuff you think you’ll forget, like that math test on Friday.

Stay in-touch courtesy of an easy portable wireless charger

Keeping in contact with friends and parents is a high priority for teens. Make sure they never run out of juice with this magnetic wireless portable charger from Anker. A super strong magnet ensures the phone stays put for an efficient, quick charge.