“Return to school with everything” without breaking the bank
Discover the list of essential school equipment for going back to school. Organise your shopping easily and make sure you have everything you need.
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Going back to school is an exciting time and is often a little stressful both for the students and parents. To make sure you are ready and organised, here we give you a list of essential items that are a must for the return to school, and we offer you some tips to make it as affordable as possible.
The 10 essentials
1. The right backpack. A good backpack or drawstring bag, if small, is essential for carrying all the equipment comfortably and safely. One with padded, adjustable straps is best so it fits their size properly and protects the back and shoulders. Backpacks with several compartments help to keep everything organised and easily accessible.
2. Notebooks and exercise books. Notebooks are essential for taking notes and completing tasks. Depending on the academic level, you may need to buy different sizes and types of notebooks: squared, lined or blank pages. Consider using a spiral bound notebook and remember to check if you have sheets from previous years.
3. Pencil case with writing equipment. A good pencil case should contain pens, pencils, rubbers, pencil sharpeners and highlighters. Choosing one with several compartments is recommended in order to keep it tidy. A ruler, scissors and glue can also be useful.
4. Folder or ring binder. A folder or ring binder with separators will help to keep sheets, notes and documents organised, whether the folder “comes and goes” to school or for filing away at home.
5. Diary or planner. A diary is key for keeping track of deadlines, exams, appointments and other activities. Using a diary from a young age encourages good and effective time management and ensures they don't miss any important dates.
6. Technology. Depending on the level and instructions from teachers, having access to a computer or tablet may be crucial. Check they are updated and in good condition. They enable them to carry out research, access educational platforms and communicate with teachers and classmates.
7. Calculator. A calculator can be essential. Make sure it can be used for all classes, particularly if you need a scientific or graphic calculator.
8. Textbooks and reading books. Textbooks are a main source of information and study. Plus, having additional reading material can help you to expand your knowledge and improve your comprehension skills.
9. Bottle of water and reusable lunchbox. Staying hydrated and fed is fundamental to perform well. A bottle of water and a lunch box or container, both reusable, to take lunch in will help you to keep energy levels up and concentration. Because they are reusable, we generate less waste.
10. Personal hygiene products. Including a small personal hygiene kit with a small towel, some soap and comb is very practical. It will help us to stay fresh throughout the day’s activities.
Tips for shopping wisely
- Check before buying. To ensure you don’t spend more than you really need to for the return to school, it’s advisable to check what we already have that is still in good condition, make a list of the truly essential items and aim to follow it to the letter.
- Shop with a list and without the children. Where possible, we should avoid taking children with us shopping, unless they need to try clothes on. If we are going alone and only to buy the essentials, we will be more practical in our decision-making.
- Stagger your shopping. Diversifying and spacing out your shopping is advisable, because you never need each piece of equipment on the first day, so we can buy it a few things at a time. And above all, we should try to stay away from brands and fashion, since this can save us up to 30%.
