The high school supply list, sorted: the calculator teachers actually require, a backpack that lasts, and the small stuff.
Updated October 2026 · save to pinterest
best for: Algebra II, precalc, calculus, stats and AP classes
The graphing calculator most high school math and science classes require, from algebra II through AP calculus. Check if your school loans them first.
best for: Freshman and sophomore math and science
A cheap scientific calculator some schools ask for in algebra, geometry, chemistry and physics.
best for: Students who lose paper notes
Write by hand, scan to Google Drive with the app, wipe the pages, and reuse all year.
best for: Everyday note-taking
Smooth, quick-drying gel pens that are a classroom favorite for a reason.
best for: A backpack that survives all four years
The most popular backpack on campuses, with a padded laptop sleeve and room for a full textbook load.
best for: Tossing in a backpack without leaks
Leakproof in a backpack, and the colorways are a whole thing at school.
best for: Students who pack lunch
A leakproof bento box with removable dividers. Packing lunch actually becomes easy.
best for: Long school days and after-school activities
For the phone that's dead by sixth period.
best for: Students with an iPhone
For study hall, the bus and online assignments. Many supply lists include earbuds.
best for: Homework at night
A good homework lamp for a bedroom desk. Retro-looking and cheap.
Most high school math and science classes require a TI-84 Plus CE (or accept a TI-83/TI-84 Plus). Some schools only need a cheaper scientific calculator like the TI-30X IIS for lower-level classes. Check your school's list first, since some loan calculators.
A backpack, the required calculator, notebooks or binders, pens and highlighters, a water bottle and earbuds. Many schools also expect a laptop or Chromebook.
