Spirit days sneak up, practices pop onto the calendar, and somehow the “must-have” list grows every week. Parents everywhere know the drill: you just stocked up, and suddenly the kids “need” three more things.
Article sponsored by Walmart. Products chosen by moms who know.
All reviews are from verified customer feedback on Walmart.com and may be edited for length or clarity.
Enter Walmart. With low prices and same-day pickup, it’s the shortcut to surviving back-to-school surprises — without the stress. Here are 10 last-minute lifesavers that can land in your cart (and save your sanity) in under 15 minutes.
Get everything you need in 15 minutes or less. (Plus: Free pickup!)
👉 Browse Walmart’s Back-to-School section now
In the Cart #1:
Kids’ Volume-Safe Headphones
Inexpensive enough you can have an at-home pair and an at-school pair. Safe for little ears, and available in tons of fun colors.
Real Mom Reviews: “My 11-year-old loved his first pair so much that when they finally wore out after 2.5 years, I had to buy the exact same ones again.”
In the Cart #2:
A $5 Backpack Refresh
Because last year’s didn’t survive — or your tween has Opinions™. Budget-friendly, great designs, and backed by hundreds of glowing reviews (and did we mention ... just $5! 🤗)
Real Mom Reviews: “Great quality and style. The padded laptop sleeve is a thoughtful touch, and my middle schooler loves it—total win.”
In the Cart #3:
Bluey Pencil Case
For the kid who loves Bluey (so…basically every kid), this hard-shell pencil case is both adorable and practical. It keeps supplies corralled instead of rolling around the desk — or vanishing into the backpack abyss.
Real Mom Review: “I love this pouch! It’s spacious — not just for pencils. It holds markers, crayons, even snacks or a change of clothes. Total lifesaver.”
In the Cart #4:
Because Spills Are So Last Year
Apparently, the secret to getting kids to actually drink water is handing them a bottle that looks this cool. This Dude Perfect pick made Walmart’s Top 100+ school supplies list — so you know it’s the real deal. Bonus: it’s double-wall insulated and totally leakproof (aka lunchbox safe).
Real Mom Review: “My grandson loved his new back-to-school Dude Perfect style! I loved the choice of 3 colors.”
In the Cart #5 & #6:
Picture Day Picks
(because it always sneaks up on you)
For Her: Babydoll Dress
Cute enough for photos, comfy enough for recess. Three styles, machine-washable, and yes — pockets.
Real Mom Review: “My 9-year-old doesn’t usually like dresses, but she loved this one! Light, flowy, and super comfortable.”
For Him: Fleece Quarter Zip
Polished for pics, tough for everyday. Warm fleece, heavy-duty zip, and two classic colors.
Real Mom Review: “This fleece is thick, warm, and built to last. The heavy-duty zipper and sturdy cuffs easily hold up to rough play, making it a smart pick for cooler fall days.”
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In the Cart #7:
Cute Locker Extras
Real Mom Review: "Love love love these cute flowers… so happy looking."
👉 Strong, cute, and teen-approved — get them today
In the Cart #8:
Organized and On It
A few weeks into school and suddenly no one can remember practice times, test days, or who’s bringing snack — yep, it’s planner season. This one’s cute, budget-friendly, and will save their sanity (and yours).
In the Cart #9 & #10:
Activewear MVPs
Boys’ Shorts (With pockets!)
PE days = instant panic if the laundry’s not done. Grab multiple colors online now and skip the last-minute laundry drama.
Real Mom Review: “Perfect fit, comfy waistband, and pockets are a total win for my 7-year-old.”
Girls’ Tough Leggings (3-pack!)
From theater rehearsal to sports practice to everyday outfits, these leggings are the ultimate wardrobe MVP.
Real Mom Review: “My daughter is super picky about clothes, but she loves these pants.”
From backpacks to planners to leggings that actually survive recess, these picks will keep your kids ready for whatever the school year throws at them.
🎒 Ready to crush back-to-school?
👉 Shop all Walmart school essentials here.
