Go Back to School Shopping

Yes, it's that time of year: Back to School. For some, this is a very exciting time. You can see all of your friends again, and do cool projects. For others, school is not so great. But it will happen sooner or later, and it's great to get ready before it starts.

Back to School shopping doesn't have to be hard. If you don't know what you need, or how to get it, read on for tips on everything you need, from backpacks, to shoes, to school supplies, and more!

Steps

  1. Know what you need. Many schools will send in the mail a list of everything you need. If you've received this letter, read it over. Think, What do I already have? What do I need to buy? because you may find some spare pencils or folders in your house, saving you time and money. Make sure, though, that everything you find is reusable. If you find a ripped up binder, you'll definitely have to get a new one. As you find items, cross them off the list so you know what you still have to buy.
    • If you do not know what school supplies you need, don't worry. No. 2 pencils, pens, pencil sharpener, colorful highlighters, a notebook, a pencil case, erasers, a flash drive, a binder (1, 1 1/2, or 2 inch), and folders are usually a safe bet, depending on your grade. For younger grades (1-4) you probably won't need a binder, just a folder for homework and notes. You'll also probably need glue, scissors, and colored pencils in Elementary school. You could also call the school to ask what you'll need.
    • Take inventory of your closet. Do you need new clothes or shoes? Write down how many of everything you already have (that fits) so you'll know what to buy when you shop. Write down the number of tops, bottoms, sweaters/hoodies, pairs of socks, underwear, and shoes you have.
  2. Purchase a binder and/or folders. You could get a regular binder (great price but not very durable) or a zipper binder (very expensive but very durable). What kind you get is up to you, depending on your budget. Usually, zipper binders are $10-$20, with regular binders at only $1-$2. When getting a regular binder, try to look for ones with pockets to hold important papers. you'll also need dividers with these binders. Binders can be found at many office stores like Staples and Office Depot. You can also order them online, and you'll probably get a discount.
  3. Buy a backpack. You have different options, and it's completely up to you on what kind you get. Consider your grade before picking a backpack to buy. And, some are better for your back, some aren't as much. You can wear a different kind of backpack each year to see which you like best, or just to change it up. Backpacks can be found in many stores. Lots of department stores have a wide selection of backpacks. Prices can range from $10-$50 and even more. $20-$30 is a good price for an average backpack.
    • .Regular backpacks are good for your back, and can hold a lot of things in them! These backpacks are good for any grade, and can be held on one shoulder if wanted. Messenger bags have quick access, but you might not want to carry a lot of weight on one shoulder. Tote bags have a good amount of room and look professional, but, like a messenger bag, you may not want lots of weight on one shoulder. Backpacks on wheels don't add any weight. But, some schools do not allow them, so make sure that you are allowed before buying a backpack on wheels.
    • Make sure that you get a backpack that is a good size for you to handle. Put it on and see if it is uncomfortable. Keep in mind that you'll be putting in a lot of supplies. If you are in elementary school, get a medium sized bag, you won't need anything too big. For middle and high schoolers, try to get a larger backpack to hold everything you need.
  4. Buy your other supplies. You can get these at many stores, not just office stores. Department stores like Target usually have these items at a great price. Look for deals (buy 1 get 1 free, buy 1 get 1 50% off, etc.). If you get mechanical pencils, you'll also have to get lead. Find colors or patterns you like, like a blue eraser instead of a regular pink one, shiny pencils instead of yellow, etc.
  5. Get new shoes. It is always good to have new shoes every year. You'll need, of course, sneakers, boots for winter, ballet flats (girls), dress shoes, and sandals for warm weather. Some schools, however, do not allow flip flops. In middle and high school, you should probably buy an extra pair of sneakers for gym, especially if your regular ones are Converse. You should try to get shoes that have support on the bottom for your feet.
    • Know your shoe size before buying. Most stores have a device to measure your size. If not, check the size of the shoes you are currently wearing (if they still fit) and get a pair of shoes in that size.
  6. Buy clothes. Focus on the fall and winter clothes, but since school starts in summer, don't be afraid to get a couple pairs of shorts. You should have at least 7 tops, bottoms, sweaters, underwear, and pairs of socks, one for each day of the week. If you have an older sibling, see what clothes they have. You never know, they may fit you, and you might like them! If you need some trendy ideas, you can read the lists below, but follow your own style.
  7. Try not to buy clothes that are tight or small on you, or quite big on you, as you may gain or lose weight during the year.
    • Boys. Buy a few T-Shirts and polos in orange, blue, gray, red, green, or your favorite colors. Also get some sweaters for the winter. Get some denim jeans and a nice belt.
    • Girls. Purchase some Henley's in blue, pink, purple, white, or your favorite colors. Graphic Tee's are also nice. Get a few hoodies and sweaters for winter. Skinny jeans are in, but get flare or boot cut if you like them. Accessorize with a cute necklace.



Tips

  • Be on the lookout for sales. Many stores have a big "Back to School" sale in August, so don't miss out!
  • Know what size binder you need, like {{safesubst:#invoke:convert|convert}} or {{safesubst:#invoke:convert|convert}}. Your supply list will tell you what kind of binder you need, and if not, contact the school by phone or e-mail.
  • Don't get something just because it's "popular". Tote bags may be cool, but if you want a messenger bag, go for it. You may even start a new trend! And, what's popular now may change very soon.
  • For school pictures, buy a top that will look great and contrast well with the background of the picture. You don't want to wear a blue top when the background is also blue. You'll blend in. Which is not good.
  • At most malls, winter clothing costs come up to more than summer or spring, so never underestimate and aways save up for that stylish coat.
  • What you need and what you want are two totally different things. Get clothes you really need, not just buying clothes for the sake of having lots of clothes.
  • To make it easier color code your supplies for each class (ex. all supplies for science are orange, all supplies for english are yellow etc.)
  • With shoes, go for comfort over style. Pinched toes and blisters are never in fashion. Buy cute flats or bright coloured sneakers. You can look great in comfortable shoes.
  • You don't want to have any strong areas or weak areas in your wardrobe. If you update all your jeans, update all your shirts to make the most out of the jeans!
  • Get gym clothes (T-shirt and athletic shorts) if you need them. Two or three pairs is a good amount, and remember to get gym shoes. Your gym shoes should be shoes you are very comfortable running in.
  • Shopping with friends can be extra fun.
  • Before you go on your shopping trip, look in magazines and online for current trends or fads. But if you don't like the whole leggings and layers look, don't buy them just because they're popular. You'll look better in clothes that you like and feel good in!
  • Show your style! Get a backpack in your favorite color, and your favorite brand of shoes. You can also decorate your shoes and backpack. Add some cool key chains to your backpack; you could clip a photo of you and/or someone else or create a word with charms. For shoes, add beads to the laces, get laces in your favorite color, or write your name or other words on them.

Warnings

  • Check with your school's dress code before buying anything you are unsure of. Many schools don't allow spaghetti strap shirts, extremely short shorts, or flip flops.
  • Don't wait until the last minute to go back to school shopping. After you know what you need, get everything right away so you won't be in a rush later on.
  • Don't try to squeeze into anything too small for you. (It rarely ever turns out well.)
  • Don't buy anything that you know that you aren't going to ever wear, or hardly ever wear.
  • Don't forget the prices. In style clothes cost a lot at stores that ONLY have in style clothes. However, bigger stores with more variety have a similar thing for a lesser cost.
  • You don't have to spend a fortune! A local dollar store or Five Below may have all the school supplies you'll need. Payless is a great choice for shoes. It's easy to save on school supplies, you just need to be a smart shopper!

Things You'll Need

  • backpack
  • binder and/or folders
  • pencils and pens
  • erasers
  • highlighters
  • pencil sharpener
  • pencil case
  • clothes (listed above)
  • shoes: flats (optional), sandals/flip flops, sneakers, gym sneakers, winter boots

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