Back-to-School Shopping with a Tween: Our Favorite Finds for 2025
Tween and teen back-to-school shopping hits a little differently. Gone are the days of cartoon folders and sparkly unicorn backpacks. Now it’s all about aesthetic, organization, and just the right amount of “cool,” all while still being practical (and let’s be honest, mom-approved).
Whether your middle schooler is just starting sixth grade or heading into their final year before high school, this roundup features our real-life favorite back-to-school finds that balance function and style. Bonus: a few of these are great for kids with ADHD or executive functioning challenges who need some low-key structure without it feeling like a chore.
Heads up: This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you click and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. Thank you for supporting Messy & Merry!
A Backpack That Lasts
Lands’ End ClassMate Extra Large Backpack
We’ve tried other brands, but Lands’ End continues to win. Roomy enough for folders, binders, lunch, a hoodie, and random treasures from the bus ride home. Neutral colors and subtle design options mean it passes the middle school “not too kiddish” test.
Stay Fed & Hydrated
Owala FreeSip Water Bottle
This is the water bottle your tween will actually use. The FreeSip straw is a game changer, and the muted color options look sleek without standing out too much. Teachers will appreciate its leakproof design. We recommend the 24 oz. to give you enough hydration while still fitting in a cupholder.
Freezable Lunch Box
We LOVE the convenience of this freezable lunch box. You just stick the whole thing in the freezer overnight, and it keeps everything cold all day without the need for any ice packs.
Hygiene Kit Essentials (Yes, You Need One)
Middle school = body changes + awkward moments -> hygiene kits to the rescue.
- Small pouches – We love these for stashing everything discreetly.
- Mini deodorant, lip balm, face wipes, toothpicks
- A compact “period emergency” setup for girls, just in case.
- Touchland Hand Sanitizer – Chic and actually smells good.
- Sol de Janeiro Body Mist (travel size) – A little goes a long way!
Organization Help
Locker Accessories
A small shelf and magnetic bins can make lockers feel less chaotic. We also like using color-coded folders and a planner (digital or paper) to build simple habits. I also love this pretty-in-pink set with magnetic wallpaper! Things have sure come a long way since I had a locker!
Crumb-Catcher Ball
Okay, this one’s just fun – it’s a little squishy ball inside a plastic case you toss in your backpack to trap snack crumbs. Genius.
Tech & Treats
- Cord organizers or wireless earbuds – (middle school kids = tangled messes)
- Fun mechanical pencils – (not all are equal, we like the ones linked) or gel pens in soft colors
- Ice Breakers Duo Gum – middle school must-have in fun flavors like watermelon and strawberry
Back-to-school prep isn’t just about supplies, it’s about helping our kids feel confident, independent, and ready. Whether that’s a sleek water bottle or a pouch that lets them handle their period without panic, these little details matter.
Do you have a favorite tween/teen back-to-school product we should know about? Drop it in the comments or tag me on Instagram @messynmerry. And if you’re like me and also have a little to shop for, check out my elementary back-to-school roundup here.
Happy shopping, mama – you’ve got this!
