Back to school isn’t just a date on the calendar: it’s a new start, a time to get organized, plan ahead, and feel ready to tackle our fall routine. No matter your objectives, remember that the key to a successful start to the school year is an appropriate preparation and anticipation of all your future needs. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you think of everything and start this new school year on the right foot.

School supplies to have on hand

Even in the all-digital age, certain basic supplies remain essential for organizing your classes. These essentials include:

• Notebooks and/or binders, according to your preference
• Divider tabs and folders to organize your notes
• A pencil case filled with everything you need (pens, pencils, markers, highlighters, correction tape)
• Post-it notes and notepads
• Agenda or weekly planner

Getting organized is often overlooked, but it can make all the difference. A good planner, wall calendars, or time management apps like Notion or Trello can help you balance your studies, work, and social life. Getting a head start on planning means one less thing to stress about during the semester.

 Quick tip! Purchase more notebooks and pens than strictly necessary – they always disappear faster than you may think!

Basic computer equipment

Nowadays, a high-performance laptop is as essential as a backpack. Choose yours carefully and keep an eye out for the many promotions available at this time of year - but be wary of tempting online offers. When making this kind of purchase, expert advice in-store can help you avoid a lot of hassle in the future. Here is a list of the most important computer basics to help you start the new school year on the right foot:

• Laptop computer suitable for the school program
• USB flash drive or external hard drive for backups
• Comfortable headphones or earbuds (especially for online classes or libraries)
• Wireless mouse or stylus, depending on use
• Personal printer, if necessary

Useful accessories to enhance your study space

• Dimmable desk lamp
• Computer or laptop stand
• Power bar with USB ports
• Ergonomic seat cushions or lumbar support for long study sessions

Setting up an attractive and convenient study space is an excellent way to promote focus.

Must-haves for residence or apartment living 

Living in a residence or sharing an apartment involves a minimum of independence. Here is a list of essential items that are often forgotten:  

• Lunch box and insulated reusable containers
• Insulated water bottle
• Padlock for the locker or personal storage space
• Tableware and cups
• Personal care & hygiene items and first aid kit
• Laundry soap, dryer or clothesline

A sturdy duffel bag (or a separate bag for sports activities, outings or weekend getaways) is also a great investment. 

For many young adults, the start of the school year also marks the start of their professional lives. Their equipment needs are different, but just as crucial to their success in this new phase of their lives.

Items to help you combine your professional and personal lives

• Laptop bag or professional-looking backpack
• Power bank to never be out of battery power
• Task management app such as Todoist, Any.do, Monday
• Notepads or notebook for office meetings
• Noise-cancelling headphones for public transit or focus breaks

A clear visual schedule printed on the refrigerator or a shared calendar (Google Calendar) can help prevent oversights or scheduling conflicts.

For parents of teenagers and young adults, back-to-school season often means providing logistical and emotional support. Here’s how to help your children without doing everything for them:

• Preparing together a list of required supplies
• Prioritizing responsible and sustainable purchases (quality backpack, reusable containers) 
• Promoting independence – letting your child choose their tools and style of organization

For older students, you could also give them a good old-fashioned “survival kit”: coffee, vitamin C, gift cards, a list of simple recipes to help them prepare some tasty meals. And don’t forget to add a little note at the bottom of their lunch bag—it’s always a nice touch.

Getting ready for the new school year isn’t just about checking off a list of supplies. It’s an opportunity to plan ahead, get organized, and create an environment where you can succeed. Whether you’re a student, young professional, or parent, having the right supplies will save you time and energy, and give you peace of mind.

Visit your favourite shopping centre, compare options, take advantage of promotions, and above all, don’t wait until the last minute to get everything you need. Getting a head start on back-to-school preparations is the first step to reducing stress in September!