The Real Back-to-School Shopping List for NYC Tweens & Teens
(Because it’s more than just notebooks and pens)
Sure, the school sends home a list with “#2 pencils” and “two-pocket folders,” but let’s be real — your tween or teen cares way more about cool backpacks, commuter survival gear, and that one hoodie they’ll wear every day until June.
Here’s the real back-to-school list — part what they want, part what you know they actually need, and all of it tested in the wilds of NYC schools and subway commutes.
1. The “Cool but Practical” Gear
Because if they don’t like it, they won’t use it.
A backpack they’ll actually use – Think The North Face Borealis https://amzn.to/4oy7SZ2 (fits all the supplies and more importantly…looks good).
Reusable water bottle – The Owala https://amzn.to/4fE4jg3 is basically a teen status symbol at this point.
Lunch gear that doesn’t embarrass them – Bentgo Modern Lunch Box https://amzn.to/3UXRyTI
2. Tech & Study Essentials
NYC kids need gear that survives long days (and longer commutes).
Good headphones – Beats https://amzn.to/3J85V5w or apple AirPods Pro https://amzn.to/46WCFbE
TI84…Algebra anyone? https://amzn.to/45zR5w6
Portable phone charger – Anker PowerCore Slim https://amzn.to/46VGlKJ is lightweight and lasts all day.
Blue light glasses – TIJN Blue Light Blockers https://amzn.to/4fFFOyW for screen-heavy homework nights.
3. For the NYC Commute Life
Because the subway is a whole other classroom.
Omny case or lanyard – Clear badge holder https://amzn.to/3UYYy2N keeps it from disappearing.
Small umbrella – Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella https://amzn.to/4fBYAau fits in a backpack and won’t flip inside out on the first gust.
Hand sanitizer – https://amzn.to/41B9uar comes in all the teen smells
Birdie – https://amzn.to/45D0oeM for walks to and from the subway
tote – https://amzn.to/41AtcmO for when they finally bring home that art project
4. Comfort & Sanity Savers for long days
For temperature swings and long days.
Layer-able hoodie or zip-up – https://amzn.to/4fAXHyE they’ll wear this even when it’s 80degrees
Hand/face wipes –https://amzn.to/45QfyhO
Mini unisex deodorant wipes – https://amzn.to/3HxqNT1 trust
Snack stash – https://amzn.to/45f8Xxk
Gum – https://amzn.to/4mFvqcF
5. Low-Key Fidgets & Focus Helpers
For focus, calming nerves, or surviving that last period double-block.
Worry stones – https://amzn.to/4oy9AJW fits discreetly in a pocket.
Infinity cube – https://amzn.to/45NPtzY silent, teacher-approved.
Weighted lap pad – https://amzn.to/4lnG7Q3 for at-home homework sessions.
Stress squish balls – https://amzn.to/4luKMQp no mesh to pop.
Tangle fidget – https://amzn.to/41Fjwrd discreet, bendy, and not babyish.
Chewelry pencil toppers – https://amzn.to/4fxhb7q for sensory seekers.
And…something just because
Nightlight slug https://amzn.to/4mzSzNy
Coca-cola Labubu https://amzn.to/45vbjqK
Hippers accessory https://amzn.to/45NHdQt
Because yes, they need pencils… but what they really need is something that makes them smile on a Monday morning in Fall.
(This post contains a few affiliate links. No pressure, no extra cost to you—just things I love that might help your kid this school year and helps me keep the podcast & blog as free resources to all).
