Hey there,
School's back around the corner, so instead of waiting for the next full Monthly Edit, I wanted to send the exact back-to-school list that's actually made it into our cart this year.
One bigger-ticket pick, four smaller essentials — nothing here is hyped up, it's just what's earned a spot in the backpack and the lunch bag. 👇
🎒 Pick of the Season
The one bigger-ticket item on this list — and the one doing the most work. A16 chip handles note-taking, PDFs, and a browser full of tabs with zero lag, the display is bright and easy on the eyes for hours of reading, and the battery genuinely makes it through a full school day without hunting for an outlet.
Pros
- A16 chip handles schoolwork without lag
- Battery lasts a full school day
- Touch ID unlocks fast
- Works with Apple Pencil for notes
Cons
- 128GB fills up fast as a media device
- Pencil and keyboard sold separately
⚡ 4 Quick Picks
JanSport SuperBreak Plus Backpack
One big main compartment, a front utility pocket with a built-in organizer, and straps that hold up to being crammed with textbooks every day. Lightweight before you've even added books.
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TI-84 Plus CE Graphing Calculator
Still the calculator every math and science syllabus assumes you have. The CE's color screen and rechargeable battery are a real upgrade over the plain black-and-white version most of us grew up with.
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Owala FreeSip 24oz Water Bottle
The two-way lid is the whole pitch — flip-straw for sipping at a desk, push-button spout for chugging between classes. Hasn't leaked once in the bottom of a bag.
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Bentgo Kids Bento-Style Lunch Box
Five compartments means portion sizes are basically built in. The leak-proof seal has held up through some genuinely chaotic backpack tosses, and it's dishwasher safe.
Take a Look →