One afternoon, I overheard my friend talking about how her son was starting high school soon. She spent days hitting the stores trying to prepare, only to find out halfway through the first month that she forgot several essentials. What was supposed to be one trip turned into multiple emergency trips to the store.
After listening to her, I started thinking about how many students and parents go through this process every year. While back to school shopping for high school can be random, there are certain supplies you need to kick off the year right.
The transition to high school means added responsibility, more challenging courses, activities, and a busier schedule. With that in mind, here are 20 things every high school student should have to start the year off organized, productive, and prepared.
20 Must-Have Items on Every High School Back to School Shopping List
1. Backpack
If you’ve made it this far as a student, your backpack has likely become one of your most prized possessions.
High schoolers typically spend their days carrying around multiple textbooks, notebooks, a laptop, water bottle, and personal items. A durable backpack with padded shoulder straps can drastically increase your comfort levels when carrying heavy loads.
Invest in something with plenty of compartments to help you keep organized throughout the day.
2. Notebooks
It’s unlikely you’ll be able to use the same notebook for every class.
Most teachers require their students to take notes on dedicated notebook paper. Whether you prefer spiral notebooks or composition books, try to have at least one for each class.
Developing good note taking habits early on can benefit your academic performance.
Read also: 65 Motivational Back-to-School Quotes Every Student Needs to Read
3. Pens
Pens are one of those school supply items that everyone knows they need but never have enough of.
From taking notes to filling out worksheets, to writing essays, you can always find a use for pens throughout the school year. Stock up during back to school sales and buy in bulk to save money. Keep a few in your backpack, locker, and at home.
4. Pencils
Don’t forget pencils!
While we live in a technological world these days, pencils are still a necessary school supply. Handing in assignments, completing math work, taking standardized tests, and writing rough drafts are easier with a pencil. Consider stocking up on mechanical pencils to save yourself from sharpening homework.
Read also: 10 Back to School Ideas Preschool Parents Need to Try This Year
5. Highlighters
Highlighters aren’t just for coloring books!
Students use highlighters to mark important passages in their notes and textbooks. They’re great for boxing out key terms, concepts, definitions, and anything you’ll need to know for a test. Using multiple colors is also helpful if you like to color code information.
Test taking tips: Highlighting can help with studying and memorization.
6. Folders
High school will bring a lot of paperwork.
Organize your loose papers with folders. These can be used to keep up with class assignments, handouts, and returned work. Color coding your folders by subject can help you stay tidy and efficient.
Believe it or not, something as simple as being organized can have a positive impact on your grade.
Read also: 12 Back to School Routines for Teens to Start the Year Strong
7. Binder
Another handy tool for organizing school documents is a binder.
Binders keep helpful class materials like notes, worksheets, and reference sheets in one place. Inserting dividers can help you stay even more organized.
Buy a binder with pockets in the front. You’ll thank me later.
8. Loose Leaf Paper
Buy a pack of loose leaf paper to keep in your locker or backpack.
Despite advances in technology, most teachers still require students to write assignments and take notes the old fashioned way. Avoid the stress of running out at pivotal moments by keeping a stash of loose leaf paper on hand.
You can typically get a large pack that will last you for months.
9. Laptop or Chromebook
Thanks to technology, students need computers for school more than ever.
Whether it’s doing homework, writing papers, creating presentations, researching for projects, or accessing online learning systems, students are required to use computers daily. If your school doesn’t provide you with a laptop or Chromebook, make sure to buy one before the year begins.
Verify your device works with programs your school commonly uses.
10. Calculator
High school math and science courses will send you scrambling for a calculator.
While some teachers prefer basic calculators, others go into depth and require specialty calculators for their students. Make sure to review your school’s course requirements before running out to buy a calculator. Math classes won’t be the only place you’ll use this handy tool.
11. Planner
Trying to keep track of everything in high school can be stressful.
Between homework assignments, tests, project due dates, clubs, sports practices, games, friend hangouts, and events, it’s easy to miss things. Stay on track by using a planner.
Investing in good time management skills will pay off in the future.
12. Water Bottle
High school students can drink a lot of water.
Use a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the school day. Plus, most schools now have water refill stations for students.
Look for a bottle that doesn’t leak and can easily fit into your book bag.
13. Lunch Bag
Speaking of water bottles, don’t forget to pack lunch!
Save yourself some cash by packing meals from home. A lunch bag will help you stay organized and keep your food fresh until lunch time. If you buy insulated, it will also keep your food warm or cold.
Packing lunch can cut down on your spending throughout the year.
14. USB Flash Drive
You’ve got cloud storage, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have a USB stick on standby.
Store assignments, class projects, presentations, and more on a USB flash drive. It’s always a good idea to have a backup copy of important school work on your computer. You never know if technology will let you down at a crucial moment.
15. Sticky Notes
Sticky notes are great for students!
You can use them to bookmark your textbooks and class work, write reminders and notes for yourself, and highlight important information. They may be small, but trust me, these sticky notes will come in handy.
16. Pencil Case
Avoid digging through your backpack for pens, pencils, erasers, and more.
Keep your writing supplies organized by storing them in a pencil case. Not only will you waste less time searching for loose supplies, but you’ll stay neater along the way.
An organized student is a more efficient student.
17. Earbuds or Headphones
Teachers these days are constantly integrating technology into their lesson plans.
You never know when you may need to watch a video or complete a learning activity online. Basic earbuds or headphones will do, but if your school requires students to provide their own, you might want to invest in a nicer pair.
18. Gym Clothes
Your high school might require gym class. Bring athletic clothes.
Gym clothes make it easier for you to participate in physical education classes and sports based activities. Athletic shoes are recommended as well.
Pro tip: Keep your gym clothes in a separate bag from your backpack.
19. Scientific Calculator (If Needed)
Take advanced math and science into consideration.
If you’ll be taking Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, Chemistry, Physics, or any other advanced math/science course, you may be required to have a scientific calculator. Double check with your school before buying a specific calculator.
20. Portable Charger
Smart phones, tablets, and laptops can die at the worst times.
Keep a portable charger handy to make sure your devices stay powered up throughout the day. Whether you need your phone to study, communicate with friends and family, or complete school work, portable chargers are convenient for on the go use.
Portable chargers come in handy during busy days filled with back to back classes.
Conclusion
Preparing for high school should be fun, not stressful. Instead of running to the store and buying every colorful item you see, take time to prepare. Use this back to school supply list for high school students as a helpful guide when building your list.
Everything on this list is important for one reason or another. However, the supplies you choose should ultimately help you with organization, learning, and daily school successes.
Having the right tools can help you stay prepared and allow you to focus on what matters: learning new information, growing as a young adult, and making the best of your high school years. Although no two students have identical needs, this list will help you start your year off right.
Organization and preparedness breed confidence. When you show up to school prepared with everything you need to succeed, you’ll be more likely to face your school year head on.
FAQ
Q: What is the most important thing on a back to school shopping list?
A: Purchasing a durable backpack should be your number one priority. A backpack carries everything else you buy!
Q: How many notebooks should I buy?
A: Typically, 1 notebook per class. However, this will depend on how many classes you’re taking.
Q: Do I really need to get a laptop for high school?
A: That depends on your school. Some provide students with laptops or Chromebooks, while others allow students to use school computers.
Q: Is it necessary to buy a planner if I have my phone?
A: Yes! Many students benefit from writing down their homework assignments and due dates in a planner.
Q: Should I wait until right before school starts to buy supplies?
A: No! The earlier you shop, the less stressed you’ll be. You’ll also have more time to prepare for your first day.
Q: How can I save money on back to school supplies?
A: Shop for supplies during sales, buy in bulk when possible, reuse old supplies, and only buy what you need. Anything else is unnecessary.
Q: What school supplies do high schoolers use the most?
A: High school students typically use notebooks, pens, pencils, folders, planners, laptops, and backpacks daily.
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