What should be in a school bag? Back-to-school packing list
Short answer: For the start of school, a schoolbag should typically contain a pencil case, writing supplies, a lunchbox, a water bottle and any books or folders requested by the school. PE clothes, extra clothes and other items depend on the grade and the school’s own information.
Use this guide as a complete checklist for starting school. Once the school routine is underway, you can use our separate guide to what your child should bring in their schoolbag every day.
Schoolbag checklist for the start of school
- Pencil case
- Pencils and colored pencils
- Eraser and pencil sharpener
- Ruler, if the school requires it
- Lunchbox
- Water bottle
- Schoolbooks or folders, if requested by the school
- Gym bag on PE days
- Extra clothes for younger children, if relevant
- Name labels on the most important items
Schools may have different requirements, so the school’s own supply list should always be the main point of reference.
1. Start with the right schoolbag
The bag should fit your child’s size, sit securely and have room for the things they actually need. A bigger bag isn’t necessarily better if it becomes heavy or difficult to organize.
If you’re still choosing a model, read Which schoolbag should you choose for children? or our schoolbag checklist before buying.
2. Pencil case and writing supplies
A simple pencil case is usually enough. Check the school’s information before buying extra supplies, as some schools provide materials.
- pencils
- colored pencils
- eraser
- pencil sharpener
- ruler, if needed
- possibly a ballpoint pen for older children or if recommended by the school
3. Lunchbox and water bottle
Choose models your child can open and close themselves. The lunchbox should fit in the bag, and the water bottle should be leakproof and easy to reach.
If the schoolbag has a side pocket for a bottle, it can be useful to put it there so the water bottle isn’t between books and papers.
4. Books, folders and papers
Pack only the materials the school has specified. For the first day of school, you don’t necessarily need to fill the bag with all the books from home.
Once the school year is underway, it’s better to pack according to the day’s schedule. This keeps the bag lighter and more organized.
5. PE clothes and activity bag
If your child has PE, a separate gym bag can be useful for sports clothes, shoes and possibly a towel. On days without PE, the bag does not need to be in the schoolbag.
6. Spare clothes for younger children
In the first years of school, a small set of spare clothes can be useful if the school recommends it. This could include socks, a T-shirt, or a light extra layer.
Pack only what's necessary so the bag isn't filled with things the child rarely uses.
7. Name labels
Label the items that are easily lost or mixed up:
- school bag
- pencil case
- lunch box
- water bottle
- PE bag
- a change of clothes, if bringing one
What should the child bring on the first day of school?
Follow the school's instructions first. If the school hasn't sent a detailed list, a basic starter kit is often enough: a school bag, pencil case, lunch box, water bottle, and any papers or supplies the school has requested.
It's better to start with the basics and add items based on the school's instructions than to fill the bag with unnecessary things.
How to avoid an overly heavy school bag
- Pack only what you need.
- Remove old papers and items from previous days.
- Leave the PE bag and extra equipment at home when they aren't needed.
- Choose a suitably sized bag rather than one with the most space.
- Regularly check that the bag still fits your child well.
Also see What size should a school bag be? and How should a school bag fit?.
A simple routine after the start of school
Once school has started, your child doesn't need to use the full back-to-school list every day. A short evening routine is often more practical: check the next day's schedule, pack the relevant books, check the pencil case, and get the lunch box, water bottle, and PE clothes ready if needed.
Read the more focused guide to packing a school bag for everyday use.
Frequently asked questions
What should be in a school bag for Reception?
It depends on the school, but typically a pencil case, lunch box, water bottle, and the supplies the school has specifically requested. Younger children may also need a change of clothes.
Does the child need to bring all their books on the first day?
Usually only if the school has asked for it. Follow the school's own list and avoid packing more than necessary.
Does PE clothing need to be in the school bag every day?
No. It's only necessary on PE days or other days when the school has asked for it.
How do you keep a school bag organized?
Use designated compartments for specific items, regularly remove old papers, and pack according to the next day's schedule instead of leaving all school supplies in the bag.
See school bags and more guides
See school bags, backpacks, and accessories at Lilla Villa or visit our practical guides to school bags.