10 Back to School Essentials Every Student Needs in 2025

Practical. Affordable. Perfect for Busy Routines.

Summer's wrapping up, and while the scent of sunscreen might still linger in the air, it's time to start thinking about pencils, packed lunches, and pulling off A's. Whether you're a student, a parent prepping your kid, or a college-bound freshman ready to face dorm life, the key to a smooth school year starts with smart gear.

We've rounded up 10 student-approved essentials from PulseTV.com that are both budget-friendly and built for the hustle of school life.

Let's dig in...

1. Double Zipper Sport Backpack
Let's start with the backbone of every student's day: the backpack. This sporty double-zipper model isn't just durable—it's deceptively roomy without feeling like you're hauling a camping pack around campus.

Why it earns an A+:

Two large compartments keep your books, laptop, gym clothes, and emergency snacks organized.
Padded shoulder straps save your shoulders from screaming by 4th period.
Mesh side pockets for water bottles? Yes, please.

This is the backpack for students who value simplicity and function—no flashy logos, just smart organization. [Check it out here for special pricing]

2. Erasable Highlighter 6-Pack
Highlighters are a student's best friend—until you accidentally highlight the wrong definition during a late-night cram session. These erasable highlighters are the magic wand for mistake-prone note-takers.

What makes them great:

Six vibrant colors to color-code your chaos.
Built-in eraser that actually works.
No more scribbles or messy cross-outs.

Use them to organize notes, mark up your planner, or even add some flair to your syllabus when you're feeling on top of your game. [Check them out here - you'll thank me later]

3. Magnetic Wireless Charger with Integrated Kickstand
Powering up your devices just got a whole lot smarter. This wireless charger powers up your phone, AirPods, smartwatch, and more. Built-in cables, magnetic connection, and a foldable stand make it your all-in-one charger for life on the go.

Why it's perfect for dorms or desks:

Charges up to four devices simultaneously—say goodbye to the “where's my charger” panic.
Integrated Kickstand for Video Chatting, Streaming, Gaming, and More.
No Cords Needed: Includes Built-In USB-C and Lightning Cords.

This is your all-in-one power hub—charge up to four devices at once, kick back with the built-in stand, and ditch the cord chaos. Perfect for dorms, desks, and nonstop multitasking. [Power smarter, live easier—grab yours today]

4. Insulated Lunch Bag with Microban Protection
Packing lunch saves money—and stomachaches. This isn't your little cousin's cartoon lunchbox. This lunch bag is adult-grade, insulated, and treated with Microban® to prevent the growth of bacteria and odors.

Why students love it:

Keeps food cold (or hot) for hours.
Resists funky smells and stains—even after that forgotten yogurt incident.
Fits easily into lockers, backpacks, or under desks.

A lunchbox that doesn’t smell like last week’s leftovers? Finally, a fresh way to carry your food. Say goodbye to mystery fridge smells forever! [Grab it here before its gone]

5. Stick and Write Portable Whiteboard Roll
Think of this as a whiteboard meets notebook meets wall art. Whether you're planning your week, jotting down reminders, or doodling during a Zoom class, this stick-on whiteboard roll gets the job done.

Why it belongs in every dorm or study nook:

Cut it to the size you need—stick it anywhere.
Wipes clean for endless reuse.
Great for visual learners or list-makers.

Stick it anywhere—wall, door, fridge, even your laptop—for instant productivity. [Meet the most unique whiteboard you've ever seen]

6. Desktop LED Spiral Light

This LED swirl lamp sets the vibe for late-night study sessions with a soft, eye-friendly glow. Bonus—it looks seriously cool in any dorm setup and doesn’t take up much space.

Smart features:

Flexible lighting—go colorful and fun or chill with warm-to-cool white.
Adds a sleek vibe to any desk, dorm, or nightstand.
Runs on batteries or USB—your call.

More than just a boring desktop lamp — it’s a sleek, stylish upgrade for any space, adding vibe and brightness instantly with effortless modern flair. [Watch the video to see it in action]

7. Ergonomic Handshake Wireless Mouse
Let's be honest: trackpads are fine… for about 3 minutes. For long study sessions, this vertical “handshake” mouse saves wrists from strain and keeps carpal tunnel at bay.

Why students dig it:

Ergonomic shape = reduced wrist fatigue.
Precise cursor control for research papers, photo editing, or even gaming.
Wireless functionality = fewer tangled cords.

Study smarter, not harder (or achier). Comfortable grip, precise tracking, and durable design. [See why it was named the best mouse of 2025]

8. Earbud Cleaning Putty
You don't want to know what's living inside your earbuds. But you do want this cleaning putty that digs out the gunk without damaging delicate speakers.

Why it's oddly satisfying:

Deep cleans earbuds, phone ports, and keyboards.
Leaves no sticky residue.
Fits in your backpack or pencil case.

A cleaner sound for under a buck—better calls, less static, no hassle, and totally worth it for everyday use, travel, or quick fixes. [You’d be nuts not to try THIS]

9. Fold-Up Desk Organizer Cube
Tiny dorm desk? No problem. This cube folds flat when not in use and expands into a 9-compartment organizer that keeps your chaos under control.

Student-approved perks:

Store pens, scissors, sticky notes, chargers—whatever clutters your space.
Sleek gray design fits any room style.
Collapsible for easy storage or portability.

Keeping your space clutter-free just got way easier. Organization doesn’t have to be a headache. This cube keeps things tidy with zero effort. [Declutter like a genius—grab yours now]

10. USB-Powered Flexi Fan
Hot classroom? Stuffed dorm room? Study break on the patio? Plug this flexi fan into your laptop or power bank and enjoy a cool breeze.

Why it's a breeze to love:

Adjustable gooseneck = aim airflow where you want it.
Plugs into laptops, power banks, or any USB port.
Whisper-quiet but refreshingly effective.

It’s the little things—like not sweating through your T-shirt during a study session. So stay cool, stay focused. [Snag yours before the heat does]

Final Bell: Back to School Doesn't Have to Break the Bank
All of these items were hand-picked because they make school life smoother, more comfortable, and less chaotic. Whether it's a smarter way to carry your books, stay charged, organize your space, or just cool down—you don't need to spend a fortune to be ready for class.

Check out the full collection at PulseTV.com and load up before that first bell rings. You've got enough to stress about—your gear shouldn't be one of them.

Back to School Survival Kit: 10 Must-Haves That Make the Grade