The last week of August on Long Island brings a unique tranquility. Pools are less crowded, and the Long Island Rail Road sees more commuters. Meanwhile, households with school-aged children are gathering supplies near the front door—a water bottle, an unlabeled folder, and sneakers that seem to have shrunk overnight.
The back-to-school list can feel overwhelming, but it can be simplified into seven key categories. Focusing on specific recommendations within each category can make the shopping process more manageable.
Durable Technology for School
This year, Best Buy’s back-to-school lineup emphasizes flexibility and battery life, which are crucial for K-12 and early-college students. The HP 2-in-1 Chromebook 14 is a versatile option that folds into tablet mode for note-taking and is currently available at a discounted price. For students who need more screen space for extended study sessions, the Lenovo Chromebook Plus 15.3 offers ample screen real estate without the high cost of a traditional laptop. Additionally, the Samsung Galaxy Tab A11+ is an affordable second device ideal for reading, research, and video calls.
Protective Cases for Devices
The safety of a device depends on its case. OtterBox is renowned for its protective cases, designed to withstand daily wear and tear. The Commuter Series offers a dual-layer case that balances protection with a slim profile, perfect for fitting into a side pocket. For students who treat their backpacks like sports equipment, the Defender Series Pro is built to endure seven times more than the military drop standard, featuring reinforced corners and port covers. Older students who prefer a sleek design can opt for the Symmetry Series which remains ultra-thin while providing robust protection.
Wardrobe Refresh for the New School Year
Life Is Good offers a dedicated back-to-school shop with easy, feel-good basics designed for repeated wear. The Kids Original Jake Soccer Short Sleeve Crusher Tee is a classic graphic tee made from garment-washed cotton, perfect for the first week back. As the weather cools, the Kids Cute Dogs Long Sleeve Crusher Tee provides a comfortable transition into fall without needing a full sweater. Parents can also treat themselves to the Every Wear Crew Sweatshirt a soft, versatile layer for drop-offs and errands.
Shoes Built to Last
School shoes endure significant daily wear, from hallway sprints to gym class and walks to the bus stop. Dream Pairs’ Sparkle Ease Kick-Resistant Lightweight Running Sneakers are designed for durability and comfort. For formal occasions like picture day, the Boys & Girls Oxford Dress Shoes serve both casual and dressy needs. Younger children can enjoy the practicality and comfort of the Non-Slip Mary Jane School Shoes which combine classic style with functionality.
Backpacks That Stand the Test
The backpack is one of the most abused items a child owns. Bellroy’s Transit line is designed for commuters and travelers, making it ideal for school life. The Transit Workpack is perfect for everyday use, accommodating a laptop and daily essentials. For older students with heavier course loads, the Transit Backpack Plus offers additional capacity without sacrificing organization.
Efficient Supply Shopping
Every teacher’s supply list varies slightly, but the categories remain consistent. Supplies Outlet specializes in bulk, checklist-driven shopping, offering discounted sections for Notebooks & NotepadsFolders & Files and Storage & Organization. This streamlined approach saves time and reduces the need for multiple store trips.
Keeping the Reading Habit Alive
Transitioning back to a school routine is easier when reading habits from summer are maintained. Epic provides younger readers with access to over 40,000 books and videos from publishers like HarperCollins and National Geographic, all accessible on a tablet or phone. This resource is perfect for car rides, waiting rooms, or those last few minutes before lights out, ensuring the reading habit continues seamlessly.
While it’s not necessary to complete all shopping in one trip or weekend, checking off these eight essentials before the first bell rings ensures that the only concern left is capturing a great photo on the front steps.
