Gear Up for the School Year: A Back to School Guide for Backpacks, Tech, Water Bottles, and More
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As the summer comes to an end, students everywhere are gearing up for another exciting school year. The start of a new academic year brings with it the promise of new friendships, new experiences, and of course, new gear. Whether you’re a student yourself or a parent looking to equip your child for success, this back to school guide has got you covered. From backpacks to tech gadgets, water bottles to lunch boxes, we’ll explore the must-have items that will make the school year a breeze.
Choosing the perfect backpack for the school year
One of the most important items on any student’s back to school shopping list is a reliable backpack. It needs to be durable enough to withstand daily wear and tear, while also providing ample storage space for books, notebooks, and other essentials. Here are a few backpack options that fit the bill:
Carhartt Sling Bag
The Carhartt Sling Bag is a stylish and practical choice for students who prefer a more compact backpack. With its single shoulder strap design, it offers easy access to your belongings while keeping them secure. The bag is made from durable 600 denier polyester with Rain Defender® durable water repellent fabric and features multiple pockets for organization. It’s the perfect option for those who want to travel light without compromising on functionality. MSRP $44.99 www.carhartt.com or www.amazon.com
RTIC Road Trip Backpack
For students who need a backpack that can handle heavy loads, the RTIC Road Trip Backpack is an excellent choice. With its spacious main compartment and laptop sleeve, it provides plenty of room for books, electronics, and other essentials. The backpack is made from rugged water-resistant nylon fabric and features adjustable shoulder straps for added comfort. It’s designed to withstand the rigors of daily use, making it a reliable companion for the entire school year. MSRP $49.99 www.rticoutdoors.com
Rab Depot 22
The Rab Equipment Depot 22 is a versatile backpack that offers the perfect balance of style and functionality. It features a large main compartment with a Dryzone™ waterproof laptop sleeve inside and a tablet sleeve, as well as multiple internal and external pockets for organization. The backpack is made from 50% recycled Ballistic durable fabric and is designed to withstand the demands of daily use. With its sleek design and practical features, it’s a great choice for students who want a backpack that can transition seamlessly from the classroom to the outdoors. MSRP $140 www.rab.equipment
Rab Depot 28
If you’re in need of even more storage space, the Rab Equipment Depot 28 is the backpack for you. With its spacious main compartment and multiple pockets, it can accommodate all your textbooks, notebooks, and school supplies. The backpack is made from the same durable 50% recycled Ballistic materials as the Depot 22 and features a comfortable harness system for easy carrying. It’s a reliable option for students who need to carry a heavy load without sacrificing comfort. MSRP $150 www.rab.equipment
Carhartt 35L Triple Compartment Backpack
For students who crave organization, the Carhartt 35L Triple Compartment Backpack is a dream come true. It features multiple compartments, each with its own zippered closure, allowing you to easily sort and access your belongings. The backpack is made from rugged 1200 denier polyester with Rain Defender® durable water repellent and Duravax™ abrasion resistant base and is built to last. With its spacious design and thoughtful organization features, it’s a great choice for students who want to stay organized throughout the school year. MSRP $119.99 www.carhartt.com or www.amazon.com
Must-have tech gadgets for students
In today’s digital age, having the right tech gadgets can greatly enhance the learning experience. From fast chargers to wireless speakers, here are a few must-have tech gadgets for students:
VOLTME 140W Revo Series GaN Tech Fast Charger
The VOLTME 140W Revo Series GaN Tech Fast Charger is the “do it all” charger for students who are always on the go. With its powerful charging capabilities, it can quickly recharge multiple devices at once. The charger is equipped with GaN technology, which allows for faster and more efficient charging. Its compact design makes it easy to carry in your backpack or pocket, ensuring that you never run out of battery during the school day. MSRP $95.99 www.amazon.com
Monoprice 20000 mAh Power Bank with Wireless Charging
A power bank is an essential accessory for students who rely heavily on their devices throughout the day. The Monoprice 20000 mAh Power Bank with Wireless Charging is a reliable and versatile option. With its high capacity battery, it can provide multiple charges for your smartphone, tablet, or other devices. The power bank also features wireless charging capabilities, allowing you to charge compatible devices without the need for cables. Its compact size makes it easy to carry, ensuring that you always have a backup power source when you need it. MSRP $34.99 www.monoprice.com
Oddict Platform Duo Wireless Charger
The Oddict Platform Duo Wireless Charger is a convenient and stylish accessory for students who own multiple devices. With its dual charging pads, it can simultaneously charge your smartphone and wireless earbuds. The charger is compatible with all Qi-enabled devices and features a sleek and minimalist design. Its compact size makes it a great addition to your desk or nightstand, ensuring that your devices are always ready to go. MSRP $69 www.phiaton.com or www.amazon.com
Monster DNA One Wireless Speaker
A wireless speaker is a must-have for students who enjoy listening to music or podcasts during their study sessions. The Monster DNA One Wireless Speaker delivers powerful sound in a compact and portable package. With its Bluetooth connectivity, you can easily connect your smartphone or other devices and enjoy your favorite tunes wirelessly. The speaker is also equipped with wireless charging and includes a Qi charging base that can also charge other wireless devices. It is waterproof and its long battery life ensures that the music never stops, whether you’re studying in your room or hanging out with friends. MSRP $149.99 www.monsterstore.com or www.amazon.com
SoundPeats Air4 Earbuds
Wireless earbuds have become increasingly popular among students for their convenience and portability. The SoundPeats Air4 Earbuds offer high-quality sound and a comfortable fit at an affordable price. With their Bluetooth 5.3 technology, they provide a stable and seamless connection to your devices. The earbuds are also equipped with touch controls, allowing you to easily adjust the volume, skip tracks, and answer calls. Their compact charging case provides additional battery life on the go and multiple connection points, ensuring that you never miss a beat. MSRP $89.99 www.soundpeats.com
Phiaton BonoBeats Lite Headphones
For students who prefer over-ear headphones, the Phiaton BonoBeats Lite is a great choice. These headphones deliver immersive sound and feature a lightweight and comfortable design. With their Bluetooth connectivity, you can enjoy wireless freedom while studying or commuting. The headphones also offer active noise-canceling technology, allowing you to focus on your work without distractions. And their 43 hour long battery life ensures that you can enjoy your favorite music for hours on end. MSRP $69.99 www.phiaton.com or www.amazon.com
Dreo PolyFan 513S Air Circulator Fan
The Dreo PolyFan 513S Air Circulator Fan is the perfect addition to any student’s study space. This powerful fan offers eight speeds and six modes with a completely adjustable tilt head, allowing you to direct air flow precisely where you need it. The fan is also equipped with a timer, a remote control and an app, giving you full control over your comfort level. With its modern design and quiet operation, this fan won’t distract you from your studies. It’s the ideal cooling companion for long study sessions or late-night workshops. MSRP $139.99 www.amazon.com
Lochby Venture Pouch
The Lochby Venture Pouch is the perfect accessory for students who want to keep their essentials organized and ready to go. This stylish pouch features multiple compartments, allowing you to store your smartphone, charger, earbuds, and other items in one convenient place. It’s also great for storing pens, pencils and other school supplies. It’s equipped with a carry handle for sliding in and out of your bag and for easy carrying. Whether you’re studying at home or taking a road trip, the Lochby Venture Pouch will help keep all of your essentials within reach. MSRP $44 www.lochby.com
Lochby Field Journal
For students who need to stay organized and keep track of their notes, the Lochby Field Journal is an ideal choice. This high-quality journal features a durable waxed canvas cover and comes with a Dot Grid Refill that can be easily replaced when needed. It also has an interior pocket for storing small items like business cards or USB drives. The journal’s pages are made from acid-free paper, ensuring that your notes will last for years to come. Whether you’re taking lecture notes or jotting down ideas for your next school project, the Lochby Field Journal is the perfect tool for staying organized and productive. MSRP $59.99 www.lochby.com
SentrySafe 1200 Fire-Resistant Box
For students who need to store important documents or items, the SentrySafe 1200 Fire-Resistant Box is an ideal choice. This safe is designed to protect your valuables from fire and water damage, making it a great option for students who want to keep their most important items secure. The safe features a key lock for added security and comes with 0.18 cubic ft of space that can be used to store documents, hard drives, money, and other items. It also has a handle for easy portability, allowing you to easily move it from place to place. MSRP $29.98 www.sentrysafe.com or www.amazon.com
Stay hydrated with the best water bottles for school
Staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining focus and concentration throughout the school day. Here are a few water bottle options that will keep you hydrated and refreshed:
Klean Kanteen Rise 16 oz. Tumbler w/flip lid
The Klean Kanteen Rise 16 oz. Tumbler with a flip lid is a stylish and practical choice for students. It’s made from durable 90% post-consumer recycled 18/8 stainless steel and features Climate Lock™ insulation, keeping your drinks hot or cold for hours. The tumbler also comes with a flip lid, making it easy to sip on the go. Its compact size fits comfortably in most backpack pockets, ensuring that you always have access to your drink throughout the day. MSRP $29.95 www.kleankanteen.com or www.amazon.com
Klean KanteenTkWide 20 oz. w/Twist Cap
The Klean Kanteen TkWide 20 oz. with Twist Cap is a great choice for students who don’t want to sacrifice style for practicality. This water bottle is made from 90% post-consumer recycled 18/8 stainless steel and features Climate Lock™ keeps contents iced up to 59 hours. The twist cap makes it easy to access your drink without having to unscrew the entire lid, and its wide mouth design allows you to add ice cubes or other ingredients if desired. Its sleek and modern design also makes it a stylish accessory that will look great in any backpack or locker. MSRP $34.95 www.kleankanteen.com or www.amazon.com
Purist Founder 32 oz. Bottle
The Purist Founder 32 oz. Bottle is a premium option for students who prefer a larger water capacity. It’s interior is made from silicon dioxide and features a unique glass like finish that prevents any residual flavor from previous drinks. The bottle is also equipped with a leak-proof cap and a convenient carry handle, making it easy to transport. Its sleek design and superior insulation capabilities make it a standout choice for students who value both style and functionality. MSRP $56 www.puristcollective.com or www.rei.com
Packing healthy and delicious lunches with the right lunch boxes
A nutritious and satisfying lunch is key to maintaining energy levels and focus throughout the school day. Here are a few lunch box options that will keep your meals fresh and appetizing:
Klean Kanteen Food Box Set
The Klean Kanteen Food Box Set is an ideal choice for students who want to pack a variety of different meals. This set includes three different boxes, each with its own lid, that are perfect for packing salads, sandwiches, and other snacks. The boxes are made from stainless steel and are designed to be leak-proof, keeping your food fresh and secure. The lids also feature a silicone seal that prevents any messes or spills while in transit. Its sleek design and ample storage capacity make it a great choice for students who need to pack multiple meals or snacks throughout the day. MSRP $64.95 www.kleankanteen.com or www.amazon.com
RTIC Everyday Cooler 6 Can
For those who need to keep their meals cold, the RTIC Everyday Cooler 6 Can is an excellent choice. This cooler can hold up to six cans of your favorite drink or a meal and some snacks and features a durable construction that ensures it won’t break down easily. The interior is lined with closed foam insulation and features a secure zipper closure, keeping your food at the desired temperature for hours. It also comes with multiple storage pockets inside and out to keep items like napkins, silverware, a wallet, and keys safe and organized. Whether you’re packing lunch or just bringing drinks and a snack, this cooler is sure to keep them fresh and cool. MSRP $24.99 www.rticoutdoors.com or www.amazon.com
Carhartt Cargo Series Insulted Lunch Bag
For those who want a reliable lunch bag, the Carhartt Cargo Series Insulated Lunch Bag is a great option. This bag features a rugged design with 500 denier CORDURA® ripstop nylon with Rain Defender® durable water repellent, making it able to handle the wear and tear of everyday use. It also has an insulated lining that helps to keep food at the right temperature for hours. The bag also comes with an interior mesh pocket to store an ice pack, utensils, napkins, and other items you may need for lunchtime. With its rugged design and good insulation capabilities, this lunch bag is perfect for students who want a reliable way to pack their meals each day. MSRP $34.99 www.carhartt.com or www.amazon.com
Start the school year off right with the right gear
As you gear up for the new school year, don’t underestimate the importance of having the right gear. From backpacks to tech gadgets, water bottles to lunch boxes, each item plays a crucial role in ensuring a successful and productive school year. By investing in high-quality and reliable gear, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle any challenges that come your way. So, make your back to school shopping list and start the school year off right with the gear that suits your needs. Happy learning!
