Free Back-to-School Shopping List: Must-Have Essentials Beyond School Supplies
While I love that schools give a back to school supply list, I’m often left wondering about the other stuff. Things like clothes and small items my kids need, but aren’t on any other list.
The worst is when we get three weeks into school and have to scramble, resulting in a stressful late night store run. So, today I’ve got a great checklist for you that solves this problem. This back to school shopping list covers clothes, toiletries, and more!
Must-Have Clothes for Back to School
While the actual numbers may vary for you, this a fantastic guide. Also, remember that you may not need to buy all of these. You just want to make sure that your kids have them.
- Shirts (7-8)
- Shorts or pants (7-8)
- Jackets (1-2)
- Pajamas (5-7)
- Shoes (1-3)
- Socks (7-8)
- Underwear (7-8)
- Sports bras or bras for older girls (4-7)
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Keep in mind…
- when the weather changes in your area (we don’t hit fall weather until October)
- school dress codes
- how often you (or they) do laundry – grab a great laundry for kids cheat sheet
- how hard your kids are on clothes. If you know they’ll get holes in them quickly, pick up an extra pair.
Other Essentials You’ll Need for School
These items are needed, but not as often talked about. You’ll be so glad you have them ready to go!
- A sturdy backpack
- Water bottle
- Lunch box (Outside cover and bento box)
- Thermos
- Ice packs
- Snacks and lunch items ready to take to school
- Umbrella
- Small pack of tissues (I also think it helps to put tissues in the car!)
Most Useful School Items for OIder Kids
And finally, it’s also a great time to make sure that kids have personal hygiene items. Some of these are especially important for older elementary, middle school, and high school.
Make sure you have them ready at home, or get them in small enough sizes to travel with them too.
- Toothbrushes and toothpaste (Make sure these are in good shape for the start of the school year. You can also get travel sizes for kids to take with them if they have braces, etc.)
- Deodorant (I like buying a travel size for their backpacks too!)
- Hair brushes, hair ties, small mirror
- Face wash
- Feminine products for girls
- Cough drops and over the counter medicines (that they are allowed to have)
- Hand sanitizer or mini wipes
- Ear pods
Free Printable Back to School Shopping List
Now, print off the list and have the kids help check them off as you go through them!
Don’t forget to consult your local school or district for your school supply list in addition to the items on this list.
What’s Next?
Grab the Back to School Checklist or take the whole month of August to get organized for the year!
