Looking for a list of school supplies? You're in the right spot! On average, families spend around $875 each year on back-to-school shopping, so it's helpful to know what you really need. Luckily, we've put together a list of the 6 best brands to shop from this year.

Ready to make your back-to-school shopping a breeze? Let's dive straight into it!

1. Colle à Moi

Colle à Moi is a Québec-founded company that specializes in personalized labels for kids designed to make school prep easier and more organized. Created by a mom who wanted a practical and durable labelling solution, the brand has grown into a trusted choice for Canadian families.

Their labels are waterproof, dishwasher-safe, laundry-safe, and heat-resistant, making them ideal for everything from lunch containers to clothing. Colle à Moi also stands out for using eco-friendly, solvent-free inks and offering playful, colourful designs that appeal to kids and parents alike.

Free shipping within Canada and a satisfaction guarantee add to the appeal.

Most Popular Products

Colle à Moi offers a variety of label formats and kits to get you ready for the new school year. For back-to-school, here are the must-have items to add to your list:

• Complete Label Packs: A mix of name labels in different shapes and sizes, perfect for covering all school supplies, clothing, and personal items.

• Silicone Bottle Band: A reusable, dishwasher-safe band that stretches to fit most water bottles. Personalize it to ensure your child’s drink always makes its way back home.

• Eraser Bands: Cute, ultra-durable silicone bands designed to fit classic Staedtler and similar-sized erasers. Sold in sets of three assorted colors, they keep erasers easy to identify and impossible to mix up.

• Bag Tag: A sturdy, waterproof tag that attaches to backpacks, lunch boxes, or luggage to make sure belongings always find their way back. Includes a secure plastic strap for easy fastening.

Each product is designed to be durable, easy to apply, and customizable with a child’s name and a choice of vibrant themes.

2. Mabel's Labels

Mabel's Labels is a Canadian company founded in 2003 by four moms who wanted a better solution for keeping their children's belongings organized. Known for its high-quality, customizable labels, the brand has become a go-to choice for parents across Canada and beyond.

Mabel’s Labels specializes in creating durable, personalized clothing labels for kids, school supplies, and accessories. The labels are designed to withstand the everyday wear and tear of laundry, dishwashing, and general use, making them a practical solution for busy families.

Most Popular Products

Mabel’s Labels offers a range of products designed to make back-to-school prep easier for parents. For the new school year, here are the must-have items to get:

• Ultimate Back-to-School Combo: This is the perfect all-in-one package for the school year, featuring 126 labels that cover everything from clothing and shoes to lunchboxes and water bottles. It’s an excellent option for families looking to label multiple items for their children.

• Tag Mates Clothing Labels: These labels are ideal for clothing and can be easily applied to the care tags of garments. They’re designed to withstand multiple washes, ensuring they remain intact throughout the school year.

• Mini and Classic Stick-eez Labels: Perfect for labeling smaller items like pens, pencils, or lunch containers, these adhesive labels are made to last through both everyday use and washing.

• Iron-On Labels: For parents who prefer not to sew, Mabel's Labels offers iron-on options for clothing that need to be labeled quickly and efficiently. These labels are designed to hold up well under the heat and friction of laundry cycles.

• Personalized Name Stickers: These customizable stickers are perfect for a wide range of items, from backpacks to shoes. Available in various sizes, shapes, and colors, they can be personalized with your child’s name and fun icons.

Mabel’s Labels also offers eco-friendly options, making it easier for environmentally conscious families to organize their child’s items without compromising on quality.

3. Lavoie

Lavoie is a Quebec-based brand that has been providing high-quality, durable backpacks since 1988. Known for their longevity and functionality, Lavoie backpacks are designed to withstand years of wear and tear, making them a popular choice for Canadian students.

The brand takes pride in offering products that combine superior craftsmanship with comfort, ensuring that students have a reliable bag for their school years. Their backpacks are locally made in Quebec, which supports Canadian manufacturing while offering products tailored to the needs of students across the country.

Most Popular Products

Lavoie is ideal for back-to-school because their backpacks combine durability, comfort, and student-focused design that lasts for years.

• Lavoie Chic Choc Backpack: This versatile backpack is perfect for both young students and older ones. Made from durable Cordura fabric, it is designed to handle the demands of daily school life while remaining comfortable to carry. It features padded shoulder straps and back panels for added comfort, making it an ideal choice for students who need a durable yet lightweight backpack.

• Lavoie Intro Backpack: The Intro model is designed specifically for younger students. Its compact size and ergonomic features ensure that children can carry their school supplies comfortably. This model is particularly popular for its easy-to-use design and sturdy construction, offering parents peace of mind that their child’s bag will last.

• Lavoie Cordura Backpack: Made from 1000D nylon and Cordura fabric, this backpack is built for extreme durability. It’s a larger option suited for older students who need a bit more room for books, laptops, and other school essentials. The Lavoie Cordura backpack is perfect for those looking for a reliable, long-lasting bag for their school years.

4. Headster

Headster is a popular Canadian brand known for its stylish and durable backpacks designed specifically for kids. With a focus on combining trendy designs with practicality, Headster has become a go-to choice for parents looking for school bags that can stand up to the daily demands of active children.

Whether you're looking for something fun and vibrant or more subtle and sophisticated, Headster offers a wide variety of options that cater to different tastes and needs.

Their backpacks are built with high-quality materials and feature thoughtful designs that include multiple compartments, reinforced straps, and weather-resistant fabrics.

Most Popular Products

Many parents kick off the school year with a fresh new cap, happily retiring the sun-faded, adventure-worn favourite from summer—here are the go-to products from Headster to start the season in style.

• Lunch Box: Headster’s lunch boxes combine vintage charm with modern function, in 11L foldable styles or a compact 5L with bottle pocket. All feature insulated compartments to keep food fresh, perfect for school days or weekend adventures.

• Caps: Headster’s hats are a back-to-school favourite, offered in styles from snapbacks to five panels. With bold prints, playful patterns, and classic solids, they add personality to any outfit while keeping kids comfortable all day.

• 20L School Backpack: The 20L School Backpack is one of Headster's most popular models, featuring a spacious main compartment for books and supplies, plus a handy front pocket for easy access to smaller items. Its ergonomic design and padded straps ensure comfort throughout the school day. Available in various colours and patterns, it’s a favourite among both younger children and pre-teens.

5. Jean County

Jean Coutu, a well-known pharmacy chain across Quebec, is a convenient destination for back-to-school supplies. While it is primarily recognized for its health and beauty products, Jean Coutu offers a solid selection of essential school supplies that cater to students of all ages.

With numerous locations and an online store, it provides an easy shopping experience for those in need of quick and affordable supplies. Through their MOI loyalty program, customers can also earn points on their purchases, further enhancing the value of shopping there.

Most Popular Products

At Jean Coutu, the back-to-school lineup includes many staple items.

• Notebooks and Binders: Jean Coutu carries a variety of notebooks and binders in different sizes and colors, perfect for organizing school subjects and assignments. These products are competitively priced, making them accessible for families preparing for the new school year.

• Writing Supplies: From pens and pencils to highlighters and markers, Jean Coutu’s selection of writing tools covers all the essentials students need. Often available in value packs, these items help parents save while stocking up for the year.

• Backpacks and Pencil Cases: Shoppers can find practical backpacks and pencil cases from popular brands, suited for students of all ages. These products combine functionality and style, ensuring students are ready to carry their supplies comfortably and in an organized way.

What Essentials Should You Buy for a Great Start to the Year?

Getting ready for back-to-school means stocking up on the essentials that kids use every single day, here are our top picks you won’t want to skimp on.Personalized Labels

The easiest way to make sure belongings come home every day. A small investment that saves you from replacing lost items.We recommend: Colle à Moi’s labels — waterproof, laundry-safe, and built to last.

Backpack

Absolutely crucial for carrying books, supplies, and personal items comfortably. Check the quality of the straps, back support, and stitching. It’s worth investing in a solid model that will last all year.We recommend: Lavoie — for their lifetime warranty. Opt for plain colors so they don’t go out of style.

Pencil Case

Perfect for keeping pencils, pens, and highlighters organized. Choose a sturdy design that’s easy to open so kids can find what they need without wasting class time.We recommend: Lavoie — for their lifetime warranty.

Lunch Box

A must-have for keeping meals fresh and organized. Go for a well-insulated, easy-to-clean option that can handle daily use.We recommend: Headster’s lunch boxes — blending style and function, with matching backpack designs.

Water Bottle

Practical and reusable, it should be leak-proof and easy to fill. A good one keeps kids hydrated all day long.We recommend: Available in almost all retailers — don’t invest too much, it’s the most ‘’lost-item’’ on the list!

Indoor Shoes

Essential for school activities. Look for something comfortable, durable, and easy to slip on and off.We recommend: Available at most shoe retailers — opt for quality over price to ensure all-day comfort.

How to Find Back-to-School Deals?

You can easily find great deals by keeping an eye out for seasonal sales and local promotions. Many stores offer special discounts as the school year approaches, so it's a good idea to start looking early. To stay within your family budget, you might want to build your own checklist to help you prioritize what you need to purchase for the school year.

Here are some tips to make your shopping easier:

• Keep your list in your purse and, whenever you’re at the pharmacy, Walmart, Staples, Costco, or similar stores, check if any of your needed items are on sale

• Call your local community centre to ask about any upcoming school supply drives or giveaways

• Look for deals at different times of day - some stores offer flash sales in the evening

• Check if your child's school has partnered with any local businesses for special discounts

• Consider buying in bulk with other families to get better prices on commonly used items

Remember, the first day of school will be here before you know it, so it's smart to start your shopping early. This way, you'll have more time to compare prices and find the best deals available. All items should be labeled before the first day of school, so plan a little time to get it done.

Frequently Asked Questions About Back To School Supply List

What Is The Best Time To Start Shopping For Back-to-School?

We suggest kicking off your back-to-school shopping from June to late August. This timing allows you to snag early deals and spread out your expenses. By planning ahead, you'll avoid last-minute rushes and potentially save money.

Can College Students Benefit From Back-to-School Deals?

Absolutely! College students can make significant savings during back-to-school promotions. You'll find discounts on items such as laptops, textbooks, and dorm essentials like bedding and mini fridges. Taking advantage of these deals helps stretch your budget, whether you're using financial aid or personal funds. Plan early to maximize savings and ensure you're fully equipped for campus life.

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