Back-to-School Essentials Checklist

What Your Child Really Needs — and Where to Find It

Back-to-school prep doesn't need to be overwhelming. With so many products out there, it’s easy to overbuy or miss the essentials. This list keeps things focused — covering only what matters most for a successful, stress-free start to the school year.

1. Well-Fitted Uniform

Comfort starts with the right fit. At Schoolgear, our experienced staff are available in-store to assist with sizing, so you can walk away confident that everything fits as it should — without the guesswork. Stock up on a few extra pieces to avoid mid-week laundry stress.

2. Strong, Supportive Backpack

Books, lunch, water, jacket — it all needs to fit and be easy to carry. Look for padded straps, a reinforced base, and a structure that supports posture.

The Backcare Backpack ticks all the right boxes for comfort and durability.
🛒 Shop online: Backcare Backpack

3. Water Bottles – Designed for Daily Use 

Keeping children hydrated throughout the school day is often overlooked — but a well-designed bottle makes it easier for them to build the habit.

This year, we’ve introduced a new range that combines practicality with thoughtful design: the AquaFlask Kids Flip Sip Collection. Compact, colourful, and made for little hands, these bottles are easy to use, leak-proof, and built to last.

Key features
✅ Keeps drinks cold for 24 hours
✅ Keeps hot drinks warm for 12 hours
✅ BPA-free and made for daily use

We’re proud to be the official distributor of AquaFlask in Malta, and the Kids Collection is now available exclusively at Schoolgear.

4. Lunch Boxes – Practical, Organised, and Easy to Use

 A reliable lunch box helps keep your child’s meal fresh and mess-free — and makes it easier for them to eat independently at school.

What to look for:

• Insulation: Keeps food at the right temperature until lunchtime.

• Ease of Cleaning: Dishwasher-safe or with removable parts for quick cleaning.

• Compartments: Helps separate food types and avoid squashed snacks.

We’ve found that compartmentalised lunch boxes, like the Yumbox, are especially helpful for younger kids or picky eaters. It keeps things organised, leak-proof, and portioned. For lighter appetites, the Mini Lunchbox offers the same design benefits in a more compact size.

5. Smock or Apron

Useful for art, science, and messy activities. A durable painting smock helps keep uniforms clean and can be wiped down quickly after use — simple but effective.

6. Weather-Ready Outerwear

A puddle suit or rain jacket is smart to keep packed year-round, especially for younger children who spend time outdoors. Lightweight, waterproof, and easy to fold into their bag.

7. Child-Friendly Features

Look for gear your child can manage independently — zips they can open, bottles they can sip from without help, and containers they can open without mess. It’s small details like these that ease their school routine and build confidence.

8. Helpful Extras

Often forgotten but always useful:

• Tissue packs

• Spare socks

• Small towel

• Hair ties

• Name labels or markers or get bottles engraved at Schoolgear

Tuck a few of these into their bag to avoid last-minute problems during the school week.

✔️ All Essentials in One Place

At SchoolGear, we’ve simplified the back-to-school process. From uniforms to bags, lunchware, and Malta’s exclusive AquaFlask Kids range — everything you need is available now, in store and online.

🛍️ Browse online or visit us in-store: schoolgear.garmmo.com

Let us help make your back-to-school prep easier — one item at a time.