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2026 Back-to-School Checklist
Kids, teens, and parents are excited about back-to-school shopping! Stocking up on traditional school supplies is exciting, but updating your closet with new back-to-school clothes, shoes, backpacks, and more is even more exciting. If you’re ready to get geared up for the new school year, start with our back-to-school checklist for a list of all your must-haves and new back-to-school trends.
✔ New Backpack
Start the 2026 school year off the right way with a new backpack. From elementary to college students, our selection of backpacks offers something for everyone.
Hauling school supplies or practice gear to and from home requires a durable backpack from leading brands like Nike, The North Face, Under Armour, or adidas. You’ll be able to find the best backpacks for school this year!
✔ New Clothes
A new school year means new clothing trends! Whether you’re looking for the perfect first-day-of-school outfit to boost your confidence or need new clothes thanks to a growth spurt over the summer, you’ll find all your favorite brands, styles, and colors for elementary, middle, and high school students. From college clothing to workplace staples, our selection offers must-haves for college students and teachers, too!
✔ Water Bottle & Lunch Bag
Staying hydrated throughout the day is essential to keep you focused on your studies. We carry a wide variety of water bottles in fun colors and patterns that make hydration fun. Plus, if you’re a student-athlete, having a fresh water bottle for practice is a great idea.
For kids who prefer to pack their lunch, make sure to add a new lunch box to the back-to-school shopping list. When after-school activities start up, using a lunch box or lunch bag is a great way to keep snacks fresh while on the go between activities.
✔ New Shoes
From gym shoes to fashion statements, don’t forget to complete your back-to-school look with new shoes! Our White Sneaker Shop offers all the latest trends, while our Sneaker Release Calendar highlights the latest drops and upcoming releases!
✔ Headphones or Earbuds
Always be prepared for class with a set of earbuds or headphones stored in your locker or backpack. With technology integrated into each class, it’s a good idea to invest in a pair of school earbuds or headphones.
✔ Fall Sports Gear & Essentials
For student-athletes, you’ll want to make sure you have all the required sports gear and essentials. Fall sports often start before the first day of class, so when you’re back-to-school shopping, be sure to remember to pick up everything you need for the season!
With our back-to-school checklist, you or your kids will be all set to start another school year. If you have any questions about gear for your fall sport or if you’re looking for back-to-school fashion suggestions, be sure to talk to one of our Experts at your local SCHEELS.