School supply shopping can be bittersweet. It does signal the end of summer…but it also gets kids excited for the school year. As moms, we want our kids’ new backpacks, lunchboxes and water bottles to last the school year (and beyond, hopefully), but also put a smile on their faces every time they use them. The brands below are some tried-and-true options our moms across the country love!
Backpacks to Carry Them Through the Year
Pottery Barn Kids, from $49
This brand has some of the best made backpacks we’ve come across. Not only do they come in sizes from preschool through big kid, but most of the fun patterns come in sets that include lunchboxes and water bottles. The LoveShackFancy collab is our favorite for girls of all ages.
State, from $80
If you’re looking for a backpack to grow with your child, the styles from State are whimsical enough for little kids but not too cutesy for older ones. Available in several sizes, styles like Happy Fuzzy Hearts will be loved for years.
Baseball Lifestyle, from $40
This iconic brand has two sizes of backpack—the grade school-sized Rotation backpack and the middle school and up SZN 2. The uber-popular Ice Cream pattern is a surefire home run.
Lunchboxes They’ll Love to Open
L.L.Bean, from $20
Known for durability, these lunchboxes couldn’t be easier to clean and come in prints (our kids are loving the Multi Tie Dye print!) and solids as well as a wide variety of sizes.
Bengto, from $20
If you love this brand’s Bento boxes, check out their lunch bags. Their patterns include the usual little kid rainbows and race cars but also a solid variety of understated options for older kids.
Herschel, from $35
If your kid loves Minecraft but you want a high-quality product, these Pop Quiz lunchboxes from Herschel will make you both happy.
Water Bottles that Will Make Them Drink More
Yeti Rambler, $32
Leakproof, truly insulated stainless steel and dishwasher safe—this bottle has it all.
Thermos Funtainer, from $17
Another quality water bottle at a great price point, Thermos offers a ton of character options little kids especially will love. From Toy Story to Moana, surprise your little one with their favorite. Bigger kids also have plenty of solid options.
Owala Free Sip, $25
This brand is having a well-deserved moment. Kids love that you can use a straw or sip, water truly stays ice cold and it comes in a variety of colors that suits kids of all ages.
