There’s no way around it: Your kids are going to need a ton of new items for school. From backpacks to water bottles, I’ve found the some of coolest gear that your kids will love using all year, plus some problem solvers guaranteed to make the kickoff to school a lot easier.
Keep in mind, prices are subject to change and remember to stay on budget — the last thing you or your family wants during this busy time is the burden of credit card debt. You can keep track of how your spending is affecting your credit by viewing your free credit report summary on Credit.com.
1. Bixbee Flyer Backpack
Price: $43.99 at Bixbee.com
These adorable, water-resistant backpacks are designed for little ones. And c’mon, backpacks with light up wings? Your boys and girls will love them, and so will you because they have a warranty and are PVC-, phthalate-, lead- and BPA-free. For every one purchased, Bixbee will donate a school bag with supplies to a child in need through their “One Here. One There” program.
2. Sydney Paige Young Explorers Backpack
Price: $55 at SydneyPaigeInc.com
These cool eco-friendly backpacks look like they’re for big kids, but they are sized for the younger customer without sacrificing space. For every backpack sold, Sydney Paige donates a matching bag, packed with supplies, to a low-income child.
3. Granite Gear Maris Backpack
Price: $44.99 at GraniteGear.com
Available in six colors, this roomy, water-resistant backpack will hold a ton of books, notebooks, a laptop and all the little necessities with room to spare. Padded shoulder straps and back panels ensure comfort, no matter how heavy the bag gets, which will also come in handy for backpacking when school is done.
4. ALEX Toys Color A Lunch Bag
Price: $14.18 and up at Amazon.com
Available in kitty, doggy and owl styles, this insulated lunch tote doubles as a creative project to keep them busy before school starts. Five bright permanent markers are included.
5. The Children’s Place Lunch Boxes
Price: $9.95 to $14.95 at ChildrensPlace.com
You can always count on The Children’s Place for a fabulous, functional lunch tote. They have plenty of styles for kids of all ages, and the price is right. My current favorites? The Rainbow Photo-Real Lunch Box and The Force Awakens Kylo Ren Lunch Box.
6. Yoobi I Am Other Backpack Lunchbag
Price: $12.99 at Yoobi.com
If you need a roomier lunchbag, I recommend these. They are a mini one-shoulder backpack with tons of room for a big lunch, plus a grommet in the front for key chains. With every Yoobi item purchased, one is donated to a classroom in need in the U.S.
7. Stasher Silicone Reusable Storage Bags
Price: $11.99 at The Container Store
These 7×7 ½ reusable re-sealable bags can store sandwiches, fruits and snacks, easily replacing your disposable baggies. You can even steam veggies in them! Easy to rinse in the sink or dishwasher, these are available in four colorful designs.
You can see the full list of things to put on your back-to-school shopping list on Credit.com.
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This article originally appeared on Credit.com.
