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As the end of summer draws closer, it is time to start saying goodbye to long days by the pool and hello to the new school year.
Nothing ramps up enthusiasm for the new school year quite like back-to-school shopping. From choosing a new stylish backpack to finding the perfect notebook and even new tech gadgets, selecting supplies is a back-to-school tradition, but how do you know what products to choose? Luckily, we have you covered.
Related: From suction placemats to stylish diaper belt bags, these mom-made items are here to help.
Style expert Katie Sands joined the 3rd hour of TODAY to share back-to-school essentials for the whole family and all grade levels. From freezable lunch bags for you and your children to anti-theft back packs that are perfect for a college campus (or travel), there's something for everyone in the family.
Read on to shop tech products, backpacks, water bottles, lunch bags and more.
The Only Zero-Waste School Supply Kit
The Only Zero-Waste School Supply Kit $ at Wisdom Supply Co.
Sands says this brand was created by a mother who was frustrated with only seeing disposable plastic school supplies, with the help of crowdfunding she created "waste-less" classroom supplies. This kit contains recyclable and “zero-waste” essentials, which includes a DIY binder, pencil tin, pocket folders and more.
2-Shelf Hanging Locker Organizer $ at Amazon
This multi-functional storage unit is not only perfect for school lockers, but can also slide in closets and be used at home, the office or gym. Featuring two-tier storage for books, it comes with mesh side pockets to hold school supplies and more. Coming in five color choices, the brand also mentions it’s made of non-toxic and eco-friendly fabrics.
Sands loves this stylish anti-theft backpack for college kids. “The main body zipper [is] on the inside, against your back while in use, so you can feel safer knowing that nobody will be able to unzip it when you're in a crowded, unfamiliar space,” said Sands.
Depending on the size you choose, there is a spot for tablets or computers, making it a perfect traveling option too.
According to the brand, you can save money and reduce plastic waste by switching to a filtered water bottle, and still have the same great taste. Stay hydrated with this personal and reusable Brita bottle, which has over 29,000 five star Amazon ratings.
Motivational Half Gallon Water Bottle
Motivational Half Gallon Water Bottle $ at Amazon
Whether they’re walking between classes or spending time in the library, it’s important to keep hydrated throughout the day. Help them measure their water intake with this half-gallon water bottle, which features fun time-based motivators with each sip.
Keep your weekly errands, daily tasks and family schedule neatly organized in one place on this dry-erase planner. Sand’s loves how this calendar clings to most surfaces and the brand says it can be taken on-and-off up to 2,000 times.
According to the brand, this freezable lunch box is a “bag that’s an ice pack.” Featuring built-in freezable gel walls, the brand promises to keep your family's lunch completely fresh, which limits food waste. Not to mention there's plenty of room for snacks!
Coming in four different colors and patterns, this smaller snack bag contains the same freezable technology and is perfect for on-the-go snacks.
Digital lifestyle expert Carley Knobloch stopped by TODAY with Hoda & Jenna to share her favorite tech gadgets for both the classroom and home, including wireless earbuds designed with interchangeable ear tips to blue light screen protectors.
Smartphone for Kids $ at Pinwheel
If you want to keep in contact with your child throughout the day but you're still uncomfortable giving them full access to a phone, Knobloch says this is a great choice because it's designed especially for kids and fully managed by parents. She says there's no web browser, apps with ads, access to app store and no social media.
"The phone grows up with your child and you can reduce parental controls as they get more mature and are ready for more freedoms," said Knobloch.
Soundform Nano Wireless Earbuds for Kids
Knobloch chose these wireless earbuds that are specifically designed for kids. They feature a volume limiter to protect their ears from loud noises and a microphone so they can speak up in a remote setting. They also come with five different ear tips, which allow you to choose the perfect fit for smaller ears.
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This interactive fitness tracker is compatible with your own phone via Garmin Jr. app, which offers fun game, tracks their steps and can even schedule chores.
"This is such a cute way to make sure your child is getting exercise and ever doing their chores," said Knobloch.
One Amazon reviewer says she loves the "rewards" aspect of the device, "this watch/app has been revolutionary for our household. Before this watch I would have to constantly monitor and bug my kids to do their daily chores. Last night, my son was upset at his dad for bringing in the trash can from the curb because he wasn’t able to get a coin for that chore."
Blue Light Blocking Screen Protector for Laptop
Protect their eyes (and yours!) with this easy-to apply blue-light-blocking screen protector. According to the brand this is ophthalmologist-tested and proven to relieve eye strain and improve sleep. It comes in seven different sizes, including MacBook and Chromebook screen sizes.
Blue Light Blocking Screen Protector for Phone
If they're glued to their phones, throwing on a blue-light-blocking screen can be beneficial to their overall eye health, says the brand. In addition to eye protection, this screen comes in multiple phone sizes and will protect it from scratches and potential cracks. One Amazon reviewer wrote, "I absolutely feel less of the behind-the-temples headache at the end of the day, and have found myself falling (and staying) asleep so much better than before!"
Philips One by Sonicare Battery Toothbrush
If you're looking to start getting them into healthy brushing habits, Knobloch likes this electronic toothbrush with the dentist-recommended two-minute vibration timer, which comes with a travel case to keep the bristles germ-free.
Sunrise Alarm Clock $ at Amazon
Knobloch says this sunrise alarm clock is great for teenagers who struggle with early high school bell times. According to the brand, this alarm clock mimics the sunrise and slowly brightens the room, making it perfect for those heavy sleepers. Coming with 10 natural sounds, this clock features FM radio, Bluetooth capabilities and a night light.
Meredith Sinclair, lifestyle expert and author of “Well Played," previously stopped by TODAY with Hoda & Jenna to share some back-to-school essentials to get your child ready for the new school year, from personalized stationary to glow-in-the-dark backpacks.
Herschel Youth Heritage Backpack $ at Herschel Supply Co.
Sinclair loves the endless colorways this Herschel backpack has to offer. Featuring a laptop sleeve, water bottle holder and front pocket, the brand says this backpack is specifically designed for kids aged 8 - 12.
Mackenzie Drawstring Backpack $ at Pottery Barn Kids
According to Sinclair, this drawstring bag is great for sports. Made out of recycled water-bottles, the brand says the drawstring design provides easy-access for little ones to get in and out of, whether they're grabbing their gear for after school practice or packing up their school supplies at the end of the day. You can even monogram it at an additional cost.
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Mackenzie Glow-In-The-Dark Backpack $ at Pottery Barn Kids
Your kid will have the coolest backpack in school with this glow-in-dark find from Pottery Barn Kids. Coming with a front pocket, two side pockets and a laptop sleeve, there's a space for everything your child will need for their school day. The fabric is made of water-resistant recycled water bottles and at an additional cost, has an option for name personalization.
Good Banana Bento Lunch Box
Sinclair loves these bento lunch boxes for the youngest kiddos. You'll be able to pack their backpack with their favorite lunches, without worrying about it being smushed. Coming in six adorable designs, from an avocado to a unicorn, the lunch boxes feature three compartments and has a silicone seal to prevent any leaks.
Funkin Eric Carle Small Lunch Bag
Funkin Eric Carle Small Lunch Bag $ at Funkins
"The Very Hungry Caterpillar," by author and illustrator Eric Carle, comes to life on this insulated lunch bag. According to the brand, this small bag is ideal for younger children, has a zipper enclosure and is machine washable, making it easy to keep clean.
Say goodbye to accidental spills, the brand says these durable water bottles feature a "lock-top" lid making it perfect for small hands. Coming in a variety of fun themes, Sinclair says you can mix and match the lids with these 12-ounce water bottles.
Nalgene Grip-n-Gulp Kids Water Bottle (12 oz)
According to the brand this bottle is 100 percent leak-proof, making it a great choice for car rides, family adventures and more. Coming in four color choices, the brand says this kids bottle is BPA free and machine washable.
Personalized Notebooks $ at Personalization Mall
Sinclair says you'll get the kids excited for the school year with personalized items. And because they'll never have enough notebooks, these are a fun option to personalize it with their name or favorite phrase. These come in a set of two purple and blue notebooks.
Icons Assorted Neon Personalized Pencils (Set of 12)
Icons Assorted Neon Personalized Pencils (Set of 12) $ at Personalization Mall
Your kids will never have to worry about losing their pencils with these personalized neon ones. Coming in a set of 12, you can choose the font and cute icon to go in between the repeating name.
All Mine! Personalized Pencil Case
All Mine! Personalized Pencil Case $ at Personalization Mall
"Nothing is more fun than personalized school supplies", said Sinclair. They'll want to throw their personalized pencils and more into this canvas pouch. You'll be able to pick out their favorite color combos and can even include an optional phrase below the name.
Zizzy Locker Bag $ at Zizzy Bags
Sinclair says this is a trendy and easy way to keep their locker organized. It can also be used at the gym or home. Coming with three compartments, you'll be able to store and quickly access school supplies, makeup, in-between class snacks, and more!
Lori Bergamotto, style director for Good Housekeeping, previously stooped by TODAY with Hoda & Jenna to share 12 of the best-reviewed school supplies that will help your student return to school in style. And while you prepare your own kids for the new year, you can also help a military family by donating school supplies to the organization Operation Homefront.
Mackenzie Rainbow Ombre Sparkle Glitter Backpack
Mackenzie Rainbow Ombre Sparkle Glitter Backpack $ at Pottery Barn Kids
Selecting a backpack for the coming school year is always a tough decision, but you can't go wrong with this stylish rainbow design. Made with water-resistant polyester, sturdy zippers and adjustable padded straps, this backpack is both comfortable and durable. This design is available in both small and large sizes as well as a rolling model.
Add these products to your sleep schedule and get better rest
Summer fun finds: S’mores kit, motorized pool tube and more
7 creative toys and activities the whole family can enjoy outside
Best vacuums to get a boost on spring-cleaning: Roomba, Dustbuster, more
Bobbie’s Best: 5 products to help treating your skin
Show your patriotic spirit with these products made in the USA
How to get smooth summer skin, from head to toe
Cooling products to keep you from breaking a sweat this summer
Fourth of July sales: Take advantage of these major discounts
The ultimate ‘it-list’ for summer accessories: Bucket hat, bags, more
Try these eye-catching wedding guest styles that fit any dress code
Beauty products to keep your skin cool and refreshed this summer
TODAY bestsellers for June: Cooling blanket, mister, beach tent
Summer product picks: Best wireless speaker, sunscreen and more
Watch 5 women try on the $15 T-shirt with over 3,000 reviews
Summer wardrobe essentials: Blue jeans, sneakers and more
Construction Truck Little Critters Backpack
Construction Truck Little Critters Backpack $ at Pottery Barn Kids
This adorable construction truck backpack is perfect for littles ones as young as 2 years old. The backpack is made of water-resistant material and has padded adjustable straps. For an extra $12.40 you can personalize this backpack with a monogram on the front.
With over 2,000 five-star reviews ranging from toddler parents to college students, this basic backpack is a great affordable option. Weighing just over half a pound, this bag is very lightweight and has one roomy main compartment along with a smaller one in front. While it might not have all the bells and whistles that come with a pricier backpack, it's a price you can't beat.
This backpack is a top seller at Nordstrom's, Urban Outfitters and Amazon and has a total of over 5,000 positive reviews. Kankens, along with the rest of the Fjallraven line, are known for their durability and functionality, as well as their cute design. Available in more than 50 colors, there is a Kanken for everyone.
Besides its stylish design, what sets this lunch bag apart is the non-toxic freezable gel that is built into the walls of the bag, so your entire bag can freeze and keep your food cool for longer. The bag also collapses so it can easily be placed in your freezer or stored in a drawer. The buckle handle on the back is perfect for clipping onto totes, backpacks and even strollers.
Drinx Lunch Bag $ at Amazon
Machine washable and quick drying, this lunch bag is a sustainable way to transport food. The bag flattens into a placemat so you can eat on a clean surface no matter where you are. The fabric is also triple insulated so your food will stay hot or cold for hours.
Whether they are in the classroom or out on the playground, this water bottle is perfect for keeping active kids hydrated. With a leak-proof folding straw, you don't have to worry about spills, and the large handle makes it easy to carry around. The double wall–insulated bottle will also keep your drink cool while staying sweat-free.
Hydro Flask water bottles are known for keeping cold drinks icy cold and hot drinks steaming for hours. The exterior slip-free powder coating ensures the bottle won't sweat and it is also dishwasher safe for a quick and easy clean. Reusable and sleek, this bottle is great for students heading back to the classroom.
Super thin and lightweight, this laptop is a great option in today's technology-driven world, especially after a year of online learning. Run your favorite Google apps, access your photos, videos, music and documents all day long with this Chromebook. The HDR camera, fast wireless connectivity and long-lasting battery life are just some of its great features.
Large Capacity Pencil Case $ at Amazon
This pencil case takes organization to the next level with a storage capacity of up to 50 pens or pencils. This case can be opened sideways or from the top and is perfect for storing small notes, cards and tickets in an easy-to-view compartment. If you have no need for a pencil case, it can also be used as a travel case or makeup bag.
Padded, lightweight and sized for kids, these headphones are perfect for back-to-school. What makes these headphones standout is that there is a shareport, so one ear piece connects to the device while the other can connect to additional headphones so you can listen with friends. A portion of every purchase goes toward bullying prevention and awareness as well.
Best used with a school or gym locker, this word combination padlock is great for protecting your valuables from theft. This lock allows you to set your own four letter word combination so you can easily recall the password.