Back-to-school checklist: 10 things parents overlook that should be on your list
As a participant in multiple affiliate marketing programs, Localish will earn a commission for certain purchases. See full disclaimer below*
The new school year has started for many families. You probably already have the basics like pencils, notebooks, folders, and calculators. Still, there are a few handy items that are easy to miss. Having these ready can help make the first days of school go more smoothly and with less stress. If you want to be ready for anything this fall, take a look at these helpful picks that parents often overlook.
10 Parent Must-Haves for the New School Year:
Spills are common at school. The Tide Pen cleans up lunch messes like ketchup, juice, or chocolate right away. It works best on fresh stains, fits easily in a backpack or pocket, and helps remove ink, food, or drink marks before they set in.
Backpacks often get left behind in busy places like cafeterias, classrooms, or on the bus. A luggage tag may help you spot your child's bag and avoid mix-ups with similar ones. These tags also have flaps to keep personal information private.
INIU Laptop Power Bank, Smallest 20000mAh 65W Fast Charging Battery Pack
- $42.29
- $50.99
- Valid: 08/17/2026 to 10/31/2026
Students need to keep their devices charged. The INIU Laptop Power Bank offers fast charging and a large battery, all in a compact size that fits in a backpack. With this power bank, students can stay powered up all day without searching for outlets at school.
Light, Portable, One-Handed Use, Automatic Folding Rain Umbrella
- $16.99
- $29.99
- Valid: 08/17/2026 to 10/31/2026
Rainy days are going to happen, but a portable umbrella can really help. The Tumella umbrella is small, wind-resistant, and easy to open or close with one hand. It's light and comes in different colors, so it's easy to keep in a backpack. Your child will always be ready for a surprise shower.
Apple AirTags help students keep track of things like backpacks, keys, and mini pouches. These small trackers work with the Find My network, so it's easier to find lost items at school or on campus. AirTags can go on shoes, bags, or lunchboxes without letting students use messaging or social media.
School days can be stressful with tests and social pressures. A lunch note with an encouraging message can give students a boost and remind them of support from home. This set has 101 tear-off notes with fun jokes and space on the back for your own message.
General Medi 160 Piece First Aid Kit Bag Refill Kit
- $10.86
- $16.99
- Valid: 08/17/2026 to 10/31/2026
Now is a good time to check and update your home and car first aid kits. This 160-piece refill kit has everything you might need for after-school activities, playground bumps, and small scrapes. Keeping your kits stocked means you're ready to help right away at pick-up or when your child home from school.
This tray helps you organize permission slips, schedules, and important notes, so your kitchen counters stay clear. Rubber feet keep it from sliding and protect your surfaces, and the handle makes it easy to move from room to room.
JALL Full-Screen Wake Up Light Sunrise Alarm Clocks
- $31.80
- $38.24
- Valid: 08/17/2026 to 10/31/2026
Start the morning right with this popular alarm clock. The JALL Full-Screen Wake Up Light Sunrise Alarm Clock gently wakes students with a sunrise effect, making early mornings easier. Its small size, built-in white noise, and Bluetooth speaker make it a great fit for dorm rooms or bedrooms on a budget.
Burt's Bees Beeswax Lip Balm is a best-seller. It's affordable, small, and easy to keep in a backpack or pocket. The natural ingredients like beeswax and peppermint oil soothe dry lips, and the non-sticky formula is great for long study sessions or busy school days.
* By clicking on the featured links, visitors will leave Localish.com and be directed to third-party e-commerce sites that operate under different terms and privacy policies. Although we share our personal opinions of these products with you, Localish does not endorse them. We have not performed product safety testing on any of these products, have not manufactured them, are not selling or distributing them, and are not making any representations about their safety or quality. Prices and availability are subject to change from the date of publication.
