It’s that exciting time of year again – back-to-school season! As the start of the new academic year approaches, students and parents alike gear up for the busiest shopping period of the calendar. From sleek new notebooks to the latest tech gadgets, stocking up on essential school supplies can set the stage for a successful and organized year ahead. In this blog post, we’ll explore the top 10 must-have items every student should have in their backpack for 2024. Plus, we’ll highlight budget-friendly options available on Temu, making it easier for you to shop smart and save money. Let’s dive in!
1. Notebooks and Binders
Organizational tools are the cornerstone of any student’s academic success, and a durable set of notebooks and binders is a must-have to kick off the new school year. Notebooks, in particular, help keep notes organized and centralized, making it easier for students to review class materials quickly. Likewise, binders allow for categorizing subjects or projects, offering a systematic way to store and retrieve educational content.
When selecting notebooks, it’s essential to look for options with sturdy covers, ample writing space, and easy-to-turn pages. These features ensure that the notebooks withstand daily wear and tear, provide enough room for extensive note-taking, and offer user-friendly navigation through pages. Binders should also be chosen with durability in mind. A reliable binder can protect your important documents and notes throughout the school year.
A budget-friendly option to consider is available on Temu: a set of 4 Spiral Bound Notebooks priced at $5.97. The key features of these notebooks include a sturdy cover, ample number of pages, and built-in note sections, making them an excellent choice for students looking to stay organized without breaking the bank.
The pros of this budget-friendly option are its affordability and well-organized design. Additionally, these notebooks are lightweight, making them easy to carry alongside other school supplies. However, it’s important to note the cons: the notebooks are not waterproof, and they offer limited cover designs, which may be a minor consideration for those looking for more personalized options.
With a price range between $10 and $15, these notebooks and binders are geared towards daily class notes and organizing homework. Investing in high-quality organizational tools like these can significantly enhance a student’s ability to stay structured, thereby contributing to their overall academic performance and success in the forthcoming school year.



2. Writing Instruments: Pens, Pencils, and Highlighters
Quality writing instruments are indispensable for students, playing a central role in their academic journey. A well-rounded selection of pens, pencils, and highlighters ensures that you are equipped for taking detailed notes, completing assignments, and emphasizing key points in textbooks.
An ideal choice for budget-conscious shoppers is the pack of 30 assorted pens, pencils, and highlighters available on Temu for just $17.09. This pack represents excellent value, offering a variety of writing tools that cater to different needs. Each instrument in this set boasts an ergonomic design, ensuring a comfortable grip during prolonged writing sessions. The non-smudge ink is another highlight, providing clarity and precision without the worry of blurring or smudging.
The assortment pack excels in offering variety, featuring different colors that can help in organizing notes effectively. The pens have long-lasting ink, ensuring that you won’t run out of writing materials mid-semester. The comfortable grip across all instruments makes them suitable for extended use, whether you’re writing notes, highlighting important texts, or even sketching.
However, the pack does come with a few limitations. Although it offers a good range of instruments, the quantity of each type can be somewhat limited. This may necessitate frequent repurchasing, especially for those who write a lot or require multiple highlighters in different colors.
With a price range of $10 to $20, these writing instruments are affordable, making them a practical choice for students who need reliable and versatile tools without breaking the bank. For tasks such as writing detailed notes, highlighting pivotal texts, and sketching out diagrams or ideas, this pack stands out as a cost-effective and quality option.

3. Backpack
Having a reliable backpack is paramount for students as they return to the classroom. A well-designed backpack not only provides a convenient way to carry school supplies but also ensures comfort and durability throughout the academic year. When choosing a backpack, it is important to prioritize features such as multiple compartments, padded straps, and a durable build to accommodate different needs and preferences.
One budget-friendly option to consider is available on Temu: a water-resistant, multi-pocket backpack. This backpack stands out for its water-resistant material, making it ideal for keeping school supplies dry during sudden weather changes. With multiple compartments, it allows students to organize books, notebooks, and tech gadgets systematically, ensuring easy access to all necessities.
The padded straps are another key feature, providing much-needed comfort, especially during long school days when the backpack may be heavily loaded. Despite these advantages, it is essential to be aware of certain limitations. This budget option offers limited color choices, which may not cater to every student’s style preference. Additionally, it comes in a medium size, which might not be sufficient for students who need to carry a larger volume of supplies.
The price range for such backpacks typically falls between $15 and $25, making them an affordable option without compromising on essential features. It is particularly recommended for carrying books, notebooks, and tech gadgets, striking a balance between cost-effectiveness and functionality. Overall, this type of backpack is an excellent investment for students seeking durability and comfort on a budget.
This backpack set is only $1.74 for first time Temu users!

4. Technology: Laptops and Tablets
As education continues to embrace the digital age, the significance of reliable laptops and tablets in a student’s toolkit cannot be understated. Whether for typing assignments, conducting online research, or attending virtual classes, these devices play an integral role in modern learning environments. However, with a myriad of options available, selecting a functional yet cost-effective device can be challenging.
This year, a budget-friendly recommendation from Temu is a new laptop priced at around $250. These laptops are known for their lightweight design, rapid startup times, and prolonged battery life, making them an ideal choice for students on the go.
One of the main advantages of opting for a new Temu laptop is its affordability. These devices provide the efficiency and portability students need without imposing a hefty financial burden. Moreover, its lightweight nature ensures that it can be easily carried between classes and study sessions, enhancing the overall student experience.
However, it is important to consider some of the drawbacks associated with these laptops. The limited storage capacity may require students to rely more heavily on cloud-based storage solutions. Additionally, as a refurbished product, there might be concerns about the longevity and previous wear of the device. Ensuring the laptop comes with a warranty or guarantee can mitigate some of these concerns.
Regarding budget, laptops typically fall within the $200-300 price range, making them one of the more accessible options for students looking to enhance their learning through technology. While they may not have all the high-end features of more expensive models, their practicality and efficiency make them a valuable asset in any student’s arsenal.
In conclusion, as digital tools continue to dominate educational landscapes, investing in a reliable laptop or tablet is crucial. The Temu laptop offers a balanced mix of affordability and functionality, making it a prudent choice for students seeking dependable technology without breaking the bank.


5. Planner or Agenda
Staying organized and meeting deadlines play a critical role in academic success. A planner or agenda can serve as an invaluable tool in managing time effectively, ensuring that assignments, projects, and extracurricular activities are well-organized. In today’s fast-paced academic environment, a reliable planner assists students in tracking their daily and weekly tasks, preventing last-minute stress and promoting a balanced lifestyle.
One budget-friendly option available on Temu is a stylish academic planner priced at $8. This planner seamlessly blends functionality with aesthetic appeal, making it an attractive choice for students from middle school to college. Key features include a comprehensive weekly and monthly layout, which allows students to view their tasks at a glance and plan accordingly. Additionally, motivational quotes are interspersed throughout the planner, providing a much-needed boost of encouragement during challenging times. The planner also boasts a durable cover that can withstand the wear and tear of being carried in a backpack daily.
However, while this planner is highly organized and motivational, it does come with certain limitations. The compact design, intended for portability, results in limited space per day, which may be insufficient for students juggling a multitude of tasks and assignments. Furthermore, as a traditional paper-based planner, it does not offer the digital compatibility that some students may prefer for syncing their schedules across multiple devices.
The price range for such planners typically falls between $5-10, making them an affordable addition to any student’s back-to-school shopping list. For optimal use, students are encouraged to utilize the planner for scheduling assignments, tracking due dates, and organizing extracurricular activities. By fostering a habit of regular planning and review, students can achieve greater productivity and academic success, leveraging this essential tool to its fullest potential.

6. Art Supplies: Sketchbooks and Markers
For the creatively inclined students, having the right art supplies is a valuable asset. Essential items such as sketchbooks and markers can significantly contribute to the development and expression of their artistic talents. A budget-friendly option available on Temu features a comprehensive set including assorted dual-tip markers and a hardcover sketchbook, all for the affordable price of $24.97. This combination offers versatility and durability, making it a popular choice among students.
Key features of this set include dual-tip markers, which provide both fine and broad stroke options, and a sketchbook made from non-toxic materials. The wide color variety ensures that students can experiment with different hues and shades, enabling a richer and more vivid artistic expression. The non-toxic nature of the materials guarantees their safe use for students of all ages.
One of the significant advantages of this set is its high-quality markers, which come in vibrant colors and non-bleed ink. The hardcover sketchbook is durable, ensuring that students can carry it around without worrying about wear and tear. However, users should note that the markers might dry out more quickly if not stored properly. Additionally, the sketchbook is designed with thick paper, which is excellent for markers but might be less suitable for other mediums like watercolors or pastels.
Priced in the range of $10-50, this set provides excellent value for money, offering a robust selection of tools for various artistic endeavors. It is particularly recommended for sketching, art projects, and creative assignments, making it an indispensable part of any student’s arsenal of school supplies.

7. Calculators: Traditional and Graphing
A reliable calculator is an indispensable tool for students tackling complex math and science subjects. Depending on their level of study, learners may require either a basic traditional calculator or a more advanced graphing calculator to support their educational endeavours. The right calculator can simplify the processes of computation, visualization, and analysis, ultimately enhancing academic performance and understanding.
For those on a budget, a standout option available on Temu is the graphing calculator, priced competitively at $4.48. This device offers a multitude of functions tailored for comprehensive mathematical and scientific problem-solving. Key features include a large display that accommodates extensive formulas and graphical data, along with a rechargeable battery that ensures long-term, hassle-free use. Despite its affordability, the calculator does not compromise on functionality. Its extensive range of features makes it a valuable asset for both daily classroom activities and rigorous standardized test preparations.
When evaluating this budget-friendly calculator, one must consider its strengths and limitations. Among the pros, its wide array of functionalities and rechargeable battery stand out, making it a practical and cost-effective choice. Additionally, the reasonable price range of $10 to $40 makes it accessible for most families, ensuring that students from various financial backgrounds can leverage this useful educational tool.
However, certain cons need to be kept in mind. The calculator is not waterproof, which could potentially pose a risk in spill-prone environments like busy school lockers or classrooms. Furthermore, its slightly bulky design might be inconvenient for students who prioritize portability in their school supplies.
Overall, this graphing calculator is especially recommended for math classes, science assignments, and standardized test preparations, where advanced computational support is often necessary. Investing in the right calculator can significantly ease the academic workload and contribute to a more streamlined learning experience.



8. Lunchbox and Water Bottle
Maintaining good nutrition and hydration is indispensable to a student’s academic performance. A reliable lunchbox and water bottle play a significant role in ensuring that students stay energized and focused throughout the day. Whether tackling complex math problems or engaging in creative writing, the right provisions can make all the difference.
Among budget-friendly options, the set available on Temu stands out. Priced at $12.99, it includes an insulated lunchbox and a BPA-free water bottle. These items are thoughtfully designed to meet the essential needs of students.
One of the key features of this lunchbox is its thermal insulation. This provides an excellent solution for keeping meals fresh, whether they include a warm pasta dish or a chilled salad. Additionally, the BPA-free water bottle ensures that the hydration needs are met in an eco-friendly manner. Both items are designed to be spill-proof, adding to their practicality when carried around in backpacks.
Opting for this set presents several advantages, particularly in terms of durability and environmental friendliness. The materials used in construction are sturdy enough to withstand daily wear and tear, making them a reliable choice for busy school days. Being eco-friendly, they garner favor from environmentally conscious users.
However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The color options are somewhat limited, which may not appeal to those looking for a bit more personalization in their school supplies. Additionally, the lunchbox is medium-sized, potentially restricting the quantity of food or variety of snacks it can hold.
Despite these minor limitations, this lunchbox and water bottle set falls within a reasonable price range of $10 to $15, making it an economically viable choice. Recommended for carrying lunch and snacks as well as staying hydrated, it supports students in maintaining their energy levels throughout the school day.


