20 best Back to School gifts for students and teachers (2024)

As the back-to-school season sneaks up on us, there’s a mix of anticipation and, let’s be honest, a bit of stress in the air.

If you’re a student eager to reconnect with friends or a teacher gearing up to inspire a new class, having just the right gear can make all the difference. But finding that perfect gift, something that’s both practical and a little bit special, can be a challenge.

That’s where we step in! We’ve curated 20 of the best back-to-school gifts for 2024 that aren’t just functional but will also bring a smile. You may also want to review back-to-school supply for different grades.

So, if you’re shopping for yourself, your kids, or that teacher who’s about to spend the next year guiding them, keep reading—we’ve got some awesome ideas to make this school year unforgettable! 

Top 10 best Back to School gifts for students

Here are some of the best Back to School gift ideas for students, getting why students need them now. If you are parents, you can help your kids to organize and streamline their life and studying, so they will feel better in their first few days in the new semester.

1. Stylish backpack with built-in USB charger

Every student needs a solid backpack, but one that comes with a built-in USB charger? Total game changer.

This backpack isn’t just about hauling books; it’s about keeping your devices powered up all day. With plenty of compartments, there’s room for textbooks, a laptop, and even your lunch. The USB port means you’re never stuck with a dead phone during the day.

Why students need it: I can help stay organized and keep your tech charged while you’re on the go.

2. Noise-canceling headphones

When you need to tune out the world and focus, noise-canceling headphones are a must-have. Whether you’re trying to study in a noisy library or just want to enjoy some music without distractions, these headphones deliver top-notch sound quality and comfort. They’re a lifesaver for students who need some peace and quiet.

Why students need it: Stay focused in noisy environments or just chilling out with your favorite tunes.

3. Laifen Wave smart electric toothbrush

Keeping your teeth in check is key, and the Laifen Wave makes it super easy. This smart toothbrush isn’t just about cleaning; it’s about doing it right with dual-action oscillation and vibration. You can customize the brushing modes, and the 2-min built-in timer ensures you brush long enough. It even connects to an app to track your habits. It’s so lightweight and easy to pack for school or travel.

Why students need it: Keep your oral hygiene on point with a cool, techy twist—perfect for the student who likes to stay on top of things.

4. Reusable smart notebook

No more wasting paper with a reusable smart notebook. You write your notes with a special pen, then wipe the page clean with a damp cloth when you’re done.

Even better, you can upload your notes directly to cloud services like Google Drive or Dropbox. It’s a win-win for students who love handwriting but want to keep things digital.

Why students need it: Combines the old-school feel of writing with the convenience of digital storage—great for eco-conscious students.

5. Hydro flask water bottle

Staying hydrated is key, especially during those long school days. The Hydro Flask water bottle is durable and keeps your drinks cold for up to 24 hours or hot for up to 12. It’s available in a ton of colors and sizes, so you can find one that fits your style perfectly.

Why students need it: Encourages hydration throughout the day with a reliable, stylish bottle that’ll last through all the school year chaos.

6. Portable laptop stand

For students who are glued to their laptops, a portable laptop stand is a total game changer. It helps prevent neck strain by lifting the screen to eye level and improves ventilation, keeping your laptop cool. It’s lightweight and folds up easily, making it a breeze to carry between classes or take home.

Why students need it: Promotes better posture and comfort during long study sessions. It’s a must-have for any serious student.

7. Personalized planner

Juggling assignments, tests, and extracurriculars can get overwhelming fast. A personalized planner helps students keep it all together. Choose one with plenty of space for notes, to-do lists, and goal-setting. It’s a thoughtful gift that encourages staying organized and on top of things.

Why students need it: Helps students stay on track and manage their time better, reducing stress and boosting productivity.

8. Bluetooth tracker

It’s easy to misplace important stuff like keys, wallets, or even a backpack. A Bluetooth tracker helps students keep tabs on their essentials. If something goes missing, the app on your phone will show you the last known location, making it easy to track down your stuff.

Why students need it: Saves you from the panic of losing your things—just attach it to whatever you tend to misplace most.

9. Multi-port USB hub

With so many devices to charge and connect, a multi-port USB hub is a lifesaver. It lets you connect multiple devices to your laptop or desktop all at once, making it easier to transfer files, charge gadgets, and stay connected. Buy one that offers fast charging and data transfer.

Why students need it: Keeps all your devices powered and connected, simplifying the tech side of student life.

10. Adjustable desk lamp with wireless charging

Good lighting is a must for late-night study sessions, and an adjustable desk lamp with wireless charging is the perfect combo of function and style. It offers customizable lighting options, from bright white to softer, warmer tones, and the base doubles as a wireless charger for your phone.

Why students need it: Sets up the perfect study environment with the added bonus of wireless charging—ideal for students who burn the midnight oil.

Top 10 best Back-to-school gifts for teachers

Looking for the perfect back-to-school gift for a teacher? Whether you’re a student or a parent, you’ll love these thoughtful ideas. They’re sure to make a great connection with teachers and brighten their day.

1. Personalized teacher planner

A personalized planner is a thoughtful gift that every teacher will appreciate. With space for lesson plans, schedules, and notes, it’s not just practical—it’s a daily reminder that you recognize their hard work. Choose one with customizable covers or add their name for that extra special touch.

Why teachers will love it: Teachers juggle a lot, and a personalized planner helps them keep everything in order, showing them that you value their effort.

2. Insulated travel mug

Coffee or tea is often the fuel that keeps a teacher going through those early mornings and long afternoons. An insulated travel mug keeps their favorite beverage hot (or cold) for hours, perfect for sipping between classes. Find a sturdy, spill-proof design that’s easy to clean—bonus points if it’s stylish too!

Why teachers will love it: It’s a lifesaver for those busy mornings, keeping their drink at the perfect temperature while they manage their day.

3. Laifen Swift fast-speed ionic hair dryer

Teachers are always on the go, and having a reliable hair dryer can make their morning routine a lot smoother. The Laifen Swift is more than just a typical hair dryer—it uses negative ion technology to reduce frizz and leave hair super smooth and shiny. It’s super lightweight and quiet, so they can dry their hair quickly without waking up the whole house.

Why teachers will love it: This hair dryer is a good pick for busy mornings, helping them look their best with minimal effort—because every teacher deserves to feel great before heading to school.

4. Classroom supplies gift basket

Teachers often spend their own money on classroom supplies, so a gift basket filled with essentials like pens, markers, sticky notes, and hand sanitizer is both practical and appreciated.

You can even add in some fun extras like colorful chalk or a personalized nameplate for their desk. It’s a simple but thoughtful way to support them in creating a welcoming classroom environment.

Why teachers will love it: It saves them a trip to the store and shows you understand how much they invest in their students’ learning experience.

5. Comfortable desk chair cushion

Long hours at a desk can take a toll on anyone, and teachers are no exception. A supportive desk chair cushion can make a huge difference in their comfort throughout the day.

You can buy one with memory foam and ergonomic support to help reduce back pain and improve posture. It’s a small upgrade that can lead to a much more comfortable workday.

Why teachers will love it: It’s a little piece of comfort they can enjoy every day. Trust me, the long grading sessions will be a bit more bearable.

6. Custom name stamp

Grading papers and signing documents are part of a teacher’s daily routine, and a custom name stamp can make it a bit more fun—and faster! Whether it’s stamping their name on homework or marking books as their own, a personalized stamp is a handy tool that adds a personal touch to their work.

Why teachers will love it: It’s a fun, practical gift that saves them time and adds a bit of personality to their paperwork.

7. Aromatherapy diffuser

Classrooms can be stressful environments, and an aromatherapy diffuser can help create a calm and inviting atmosphere. Choose one that’s quiet and has a timer function so it can be used throughout the day without distraction.

Pair it with a few soothing essential oils like lavender or eucalyptus, and you’ve got a gift that’s both thoughtful and relaxing.

Why teachers will love it: It helps them create a peaceful classroom environment, which can be a much-needed escape from the hustle and bustle of school life.

8. Gift card to a favorite restaurant or coffee shop

Sometimes the best gift is the one that lets them treat themselves. A gift card to a favorite local restaurant or coffee shop gives teachers the chance to enjoy a meal or a coffee break on you. It’s a simple gesture that says, “You deserve a little something special.”

Why teachers will love it: It’s a treat they can use whenever they need a pick-me-up.

9. Relaxing tea set

After a long day at school, there’s nothing quite like unwinding with a cup of tea. A relaxing tea set with a variety of herbal blends can help teachers find a moment of peace at the end of the day. Add in a stylish teapot or an insulated mug, and you’ve got a gift that’s all about comfort and self-care.

Why teachers will love it: It encourages them to take a well-deserved break and enjoy a quiet moment to themselves.

10. Inspirational wall art

Classrooms are where inspiration happens, and a piece of motivational wall art can brighten up a teacher’s space while spreading positive vibes to students. Choose something uplifting and stylish that will fit their classroom decor. It’s a small addition that can make a big impact in creating an encouraging learning environment.

Why teachers will love it: It’s a thoughtful way to help them create an inspiring space that’s welcoming for both them and their students.

When do kids go back to school after summer vacation 2024 to 2025?

Since start dates can vary depending on the location, I’ve included a general range as well as specific examples from major school districts:

Region	Start date	Examples
Northeast (e.g., New York, Massachusetts)	Late August to early September	New York City Public Schools: September 5, 2024 Boston Public Schools: September 3, 2024
Midwest (e.g., Illinois, Ohio)	Mid to late August	Chicago Public Schools: August 26, 2024 Cleveland Metropolitan School District: August 20, 2024
South (e.g., Texas, Florida)	Early to mid-August	Houston Independent School District: August 12, 2024 Miami-Dade County Public Schools: August 19, 2024
West (e.g., California, Washington)	Mid to late August	Los Angeles Unified School District: August 19, 2024 Seattle Public Schools: September 4, 2024
Southeast (e.g., Georgia, North Carolina)	Early to mid-August	Atlanta Public Schools: August 5, 2024 Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools: August 26, 2024
Mountain (e.g., Colorado, Utah)	Mid-August	Denver Public Schools: August 19, 2024 Salt Lake City School District: August 21, 2024

Deals! Getting Back to school sales

You know, the back-to-school season is the perfect opportunity to grab some amazing deals on everything you need for the new school year, and not just the basics. Sure, everyone knows about the big sales on clothes and shoes, but this year, why not explore some of the lesser-known deals that can make a real difference?

Clothing and shoes

While the usual suspects like Gap and Old Navy are having their annual back-to-school blowouts, don’t overlook brands like Everlane and Madewell, which are offering deep discounts on their more sustainable and stylish options.

For shoes, Allbirds has some surprisingly good deals on their eco-friendly sneakers, perfect for running around campus or just making a fashion statement. And if you’re into athleisure, Vuori has some stealthy sales on their ultra-comfortable joggers and tees that are perfect for both class and the gym.

Personal care products

When it comes to grooming, the deals are getting better and more diverse. Besides the big names, brands like Laifen are slashing prices on their high-tech products.

For instance, you can grab the Laifen Swift Special hair dryer at a discount—it’s a top pick for anyone looking to speed up their morning routine with minimal hair damage thanks to its negative ion technology. Enjoy bundle sale to get your needed Laifen hair dryers and electric toothbrushes that will elevate up your personal care routine.

Tech and accessories

Don’t forget the essentials like tech accessories. Anker is running some solid discounts on their power banks and charging stations, which are lifesavers for students always on the move. Targus is offering up to 30% off on their durable backpacks, which are perfect for hauling around textbooks and laptops.

Summary

There are so many options out there for back-to-school gifts, and this article is here to help you pick the perfect one. The key is knowing what the person you’re shopping for actually wants, and this guide breaks down why each gift will be a hit. If you’re hunting for some great deals, we’ve got those covered too. So, whether you’re shopping for a student or a teacher, you’ll find something here that they’re going to love.