Real Mom-Approved Back-to-School Essentials for Boys (2025 Edition!)
This round-up features our favorite back-to-school gear for elementary school-aged boys.
We’re kind of out of that cutesy stage now—which, I’ll admit, brings some sadness. I love seeing our boys grow, learn, and change over the years, but there’s also just a bit of grief in how fast it all truly goes!
As we moved into upper elementary school, it was time to upgrade some of the gear we’ve used over the years. So this list is really a collection of back-to-school essentials for boys who are past the preschool years and starting to need more durable, practical items that can last.
In this roundup, I’m sharing the items we actually use and love from the past few years, along with how much use we’ve gotten out of each one.
With tighter family budgets and the unpredictability of the economy lately, I think a lot of us have become more mindful of what we’re spending and where. These items—well, most of them—have given us a couple years’ worth of use, which makes them solid picks for any budget-friendly school supply list. Of course, every family and every kid is different in how quickly things wear out, so take that into consideration.
Favorite Durable Backpacks for Boys
If you’re looking for a durable backpack for elementary school, I still love how LL Bean backpacks are going strong since we were kids. Having had one myself, it just sort of takes me back every time I see my boys heading off to school with one.
We started with the junior size for Pre-K/early K years, and then they used the same backpack for three full years. That’s what I call value. They wash up SO well with a little OxiClean—any time during the year you need to clean them, just toss in the wash with that and your favorite detergent, hang dry, and they’re good to go.
This year we upgraded to new colors, and I imagine in another year or two (when more work is coming home), we’ll get the deluxe size. Unless they suddenly decide they’re done with LL Bean, I think these will continue to be our go-to elementary school backpack!
And while we’re on LL Bean gear, we also love their lunchboxes! These have lasted a couple of years too. They clean up just as easily and hold a good amount of food. I will say—for older elementary school kids—you might want to upgrade to something a bit roomier.
Two other brands we’ve tried and loved: Wildkin and Carhartt. Both are super durable and absolutely work for boys who are rough on their stuff. With a good wipe-down and a little care, they easily last a second school year. These would be a great addition to any real mom school gear list!
Affordable Headphones
I know this depends on your school and kid, but since headphones are now required, these are the ones we have bought everytime they needed a replacement (only twice!). They’ve held up so well that we’re planning to use the same pair again this year. We also have a second pair for road trips!
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly school headphone that actually lasts and doesn’t break immediately, these have been great.
If your kid is older and starting to prefer earbuds—but you’re not ready to invest in something expensive that’s easily lost—I personally use the Amazon Echo Buds and really like them. They hold a charge forever. I’ve had mine for almost three years and have had no issues at all.
Pencil Pouches That Are Boy-Friendly
Although I was a ‘90s girl who was obsessed with Lisa Frank pencil cases (RIP glitter dolphins), we’re keeping it simple for the boys in 2025!
These pencil pouches have been our favorite. They’re practical, hold up well, and we even use them around the house for extra supplies. They’ve lasted through multiple school years and still zip like new. If just looking for a regular pencil box, we always go for the ones in Target or Walmart that are like 99 cents!
Leak-Proof Water Bottles
Were we just chronically dehydrated when we were kids? Because bringing a water bottle to school was never a thing… but now, it’s required.
Over the years, I’ve tested so many options across different price points. And honestly, I always come back to Contigo water bottles for school.
For younger kids, you might like these, they are a smaller size and have cute graphics for little ones!. For older elementary kids, I found [this one] and [this one] and absolutely love them. They don’t leak, they hold up in the dishwasher, and they’re reasonably priced. Every year, I restock the Contigo ones because they’ve never let me down.
This year, I also grabbed a Yeti kids water bottle. The price was actually pretty comparable to Contigo when I caught a sale. Most days, the prices hover around the same range, so it really comes down to color and style preference. I loved the lid and spout design—very kid-friendly—and so far, after testing it over the summer, I’ve been impressed. Time will tell how it holds up through the school year!
If you're building your back-to-school supply list for boys, a good water bottle is a must—especially one that won’t leak in the backpack!!
After School Snack Ideas
A round-up of favorite after school snacks that are homemade and better for you! We also include our favorite pantry snacks that are healthier and fit any budget! Grab the recipes and shopping guide below!
I truly hope these finds help make your back-to-school shopping a little easier this year! If you have any favorite items that are both budget-friendly and durable, I’d love for you to share them in the comments so other moms can check them out too.
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