School Swag

I know we’re still a couple weeks out, but for those of you headed back to school–high school, college, grad school–that time is going to pass by in the blink of an eye. Which means, we need to be prepared with all of the hottest school swag. I’ve broken done some of my must-haves, and the best places to shop for all the best deals.

Backpack, backpack

Don’t be that person that thinks it’s cute to carry three textbooks, eight notebooks, your water bottle and a handful of pens in just your two arms. I promise it’s going to end badly for you. Instead, shop for a new backpack at Target (not sponsored). They’ve got a great selection and can really help you narrow down what kind of backpack you want if you don’t exactly know what style or brand is best for your needs.

This plain and simple SWISSGEAR backpack is little bit more on the pricey side, clocking in at $31.01, but it comes with all the pockets you could ever want. It’s completely padded and incredibly durable. Plus it can hold a pretty sizable laptop, which is great for the modern student.

If you’re looking for something more eye-catching, this yellow bag from Wild Fable will certainly do the trick. It’s corduroy and cotton material makes it soft to the touch. It’s small size also makes it easy to carry. It’s available at Target for $21.25.

There’s nothing wrong with a printed backpack. This fun and flirty Trans by JanSport bag is $38.24. It’s spacious build is great for the student that’s always involved in something.

If the traditional backpack isn’t quite your speed, don’t be afraid to try a messenger bag or a mini backpack. The important thing is that you don’t bruise your arms from all your books.

“Planner” your way to straight A’s

All bad jokes aside, having an organized planner can make school work and extracurricular activities a lot less stressful. Planners can range from the monthly task organizer to the hour-by-hour appointment book. I love an agenda I can see everything in, so a day-to-day, hour-by-hour is my go-to. It’s great for an overachiever who can’t seem to stop moving. This one is a Day Designer by Blue Sky I found on Amazon for $14.55.

If you’re more relaxed with your planning, I’d recommend something like this $30 Lilly Pulitzer. It comes with monthly calendar and weekly note pages.

Folders, binders, notebooks, and more

Depending on your class load, you’re going to need anywhere from one or two notebooks/folder to four or five. You might also need a couple of folders to hold any handouts or loose leaf papers. Consider getting a clipboard and notepad duo. These beauties have a hard clipboard like front, but open up to reveal pockets and a place for notebook paper. You can find them at stores like Office Depot or Staples. This one is $7.99 at Hobby Lobby.

Pens

Everyone underestimates the true and told pen. Yes, laptops are often times easier to take notes with, but you never know when your teacher is going to assign something hand-written. You want to be prepared. A handful of G-2 pens will have you set. They move very easily on the page and last at least a couple of months–even if you use them every day. These are just $5.99 at Staples.

Every school and student is different, so make sure to check your class list for any last minute needs. But hopefully this’ll get you started on thinking about being your most prepared self for this upcoming school year!

What are your back to school shopping needs? Did any of them fall on this list? If you want to see more posts like this from me, please let me know in the comments section down below! I love hearing from you guys! Check back next week for another DIY where I help you get your life together–in the form of organizing your planner, of course! See you guys next week!