Back-to-school essentials: your ultimate guide

Back-to-school season is here – and no matter if you’re a seasoned pro or a first-timer, we all know it can feel a little overwhelming. Between tracking down the right gear, keeping up with the latest trends, and making sure everything fits, it’s easy to feel like you’re juggling a never-ending to-do list. 

But here’s the good news: Rebel Sport has your back. Think of us as your go-to partner for all your back-to-school gear, from sturdy school backpacks and comfy shoes to sporty essentials that’ll keep up with even the busiest of schedules. Shopping for a kindy kid who needs a pop of colour in their day? Or a high schooler focused on style and durability? We’ve got you covered – no stress, no fuss. Let’s make this year’s back-to-school prep the smoothest one yet.

School backpacks that go the distance  

Whether your child is starting their first day of school or heading into their final year, finding the right backpack is key to keeping them organised and comfortable all day long.

Why a good backpack matters

A well-designed backpack does more than just look good – it supports your child’s posture, keeps their gear secure, and stands up to the daily wear and tear of school life. 

Look for features like padded, adjustable straps to ease the load on little shoulders, multiple compartments to keep things tidy, and ergonomic designs that promote better posture. Durability is also a must, especially for younger kids who tend to put their bags through the wringer. And let’s not forget style – because even the most practical backpack should reflect your child’s personality.

Recommended backpacks for all ages

For younger kids, opt for backpacks that are lightweight, colourful, and easy to carry. Opt for playful designs with sturdy materials that can handle spills, scrapes, and everything in between.

For teens, sleek, functional options with plenty of space for laptops, sports gear, and textbooks are the way to go. Look for water-resistant fabrics, tech-friendly compartments, and designs that balance practicality with a cool, modern vibe.

Need more help choosing the best school bag for kids? Check out Rebel’s School Bag Buying Guide for expert tips and recommendations.

Shoes for school and sports: comfort meets style

From running laps to playing tag or getting through a busy school day, kids need shoes that can keep up – and Rebel Sport has a huge range of kids’ shoes to match their pace.

Finding the right school shoes

Shoes are one of the hardest-working items in your child’s school wardrobe, so it’s worth choosing wisely. Look for comfortable, durable designs that support growing feet and active lifestyles. Features like breathable materials keep feet cool during long days, while flexible soles allow for easy movement. Fastenings also matter – Velcro straps are a lifesaver for little ones still mastering their laces, while older kids may prefer the classic look of lace-ups.

Best school shoes for active kids  

For younger children, lightweight shoes with plenty of cushioning are key to keeping them comfortable throughout the day. Older kids often need versatile options that work just as well in the classroom as they do on the sports field. Brands like Nike, Adidas, and Asics offer fantastic choices for active school days, combining performance with style.

Need help narrowing it down? Check out Rebel’s Kids Shoe Buying Guide for expert advice on finding the perfect pair.

Clothing for kids: school-ready comfort  

From early morning sports practice to after-school activities, kids need clothes that can keep up with their busy schedules – and still look great at the end of the day.

Essentials for every school day

School clothing should be tough enough to handle playground adventures, yet comfy enough for all-day wear. Opt for breathable fabrics that move with your child, reinforced seams for extra durability, and easy-care materials that survive the washing machine (again and again). Whether it’s school sports uniforms, casual wear for downtime, or activewear for PE classes, the right clothing makes it easier for kids to focus on having fun and learning – not on adjusting uncomfortable outfits.

Trendy school clothing for all ages 

Younger kids love bright, playful styles, while teens are often looking for trendier pieces that balance fashion and function. Brands like Under Armour, Nike, and Puma offer clothing that’s perfect for every age group – combining high-quality materials with flexibility and durability. Good options include lightweight casualwear for cool mornings, quick-dry activewear for sports, and cosy layers for winter.

Hats & caps for school: protecting kids in the sun

A well-chosen hat offers vital protection from harmful UV rays and helps kids stay cool and comfortable when temperatures rise.

Sun protection and style

Hats and caps are more than just accessories – they’re essential for shielding kids from harmful UV rays. Look for options with UPF-rated fabrics that offer maximum sun protection. Lightweight, breathable materials are key for comfort, especially during warmer months. And because kids are notorious for losing hats and caps, it’s a good idea to label them clearly and consider having a spare or two on standby.

Stylish hats & caps for every student 

For younger children, fun designs with bright colours and playful patterns are always a hit. Adjustable straps ensure a snug fit, while soft, comfortable materials keep them happy all day long. 

Teens, on the other hand, will love trendy options that match their personal style such as sleek caps with modern details and sporty finishes.

Keep your kids sun-safe and stylish with Rebel’s selection of hats and caps for school days, holidays, and just hanging out.

Stay hydrated with the best drink bottles  

Keeping kids hydrated throughout the school day is essential – in the classroom, on the playground, or on their way to after-school sports.

Features to look for in a drink bottle 

Not all drink bottles are created equal, so it’s worth investing in one that ticks all the right boxes. Opt for leak-proof designs to avoid spills in school bags, BPA-free materials for safe drinking, and bottles that are easy for kids to open and close on their own. Consider sustainable options made from recycled materials or stainless steel, which are not only better for the planet but also durable enough to last the entire school year.

Top drink bottles for school and sports 

The best drink bottles for kids are lightweight, easy to carry, and designed to keep drinks cold for hours – perfect for hot summer days or intense sports sessions. Look for options with ergonomic shapes that fit comfortably in lunchboxes or bag pockets, and lids that are simple to open and close.

Swimwear for school sports and fun pool time

From having some fun at the pool to training for the Weetbix Tryathlon, the right swimwear makes all the difference.

Durable and comfortable swimwear

When it comes to kids and swimwear, comfort and flexibility are a must. They need something that moves with them, whether they’re practising strokes or racing their mates. Chlorine-resistant materials are a smart pick – they’re built to handle regular dips in the pool and stay looking great, even after countless laps. Plus, long-lasting swimwear means fewer replacements for you.

Best swimwear for school sports and activities  

For younger kids, you’ll want something simple and secure, like easy-to-wear one-pieces or swim trunks that stay put during all their splashing around. Teens tend to lean towards sporty, streamlined options – think board shorts for boys or sleek one-pieces for girls. Whatever their style or age, Rebel Sport has swimwear that’s just right for school sports, lessons, and everything in between.

Top 10 tips for stress-free back-to-school shopping

Getting ready for a new school term doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a little planning and the right approach, you can get your back-to-school shopping nailed quickly and easily. Here are 10 tips to help you stay on track:

1. Start early: Avoid the last-minute rush by shopping well before the school term begins. Early shopping gives you better access to popular items, less stress, and time to take advantage of sales.
2. Create a checklist: Write down everything your child needs – from uniforms and shoes to backpacks and drink bottles. A back-to-school checklist keeps you organised and helps make sure nothing gets missed. 
3. Set a budget: Decide how much you want to spend and stick to it. Keep an eye out for deals, bundles, and affordable options to make your money go further. Rebel Sport’s sales are a great place to start.
4. Prioritise fit and comfort: For key items like shoes, clothing, and backpacks, comfort is everything. Make sure these essentials fit well to keep your kids comfortable all day long.
5. Choose durable products: Invest in high-quality, long-lasting items that can handle the wear and tear of the school year. It’s worth spending a little more upfront to save later.
6. Involve your kids: Let your children have a say in choosing items like backpacks and lunch boxes. When they love what they’re using, they’re more likely to take care of it.
7. Think seasonally: Plan ahead for the weather and school activities. Take advantage of end-of-season sales to stock up on sun hats for summer, rain jackets for winter, and layers for in-between seasons.
8. Label everything: Use name labels or permanent markers to avoid lost items. Label school supplies, uniforms, and even drink bottles to keep things out of the lost-and-found box.
9. Check school policies: Double-check your school’s rules for uniforms, shoe types, or specific requirements. This helps avoid buying items that might not be allowed.

Shop at a one-stop store: Save time by shopping at Rebel Sport, where you’ll find everything from backpacks and shoes to drink bottles and sports gear in one place. And to make life even easier, you can do all your shopping online. Our free returns and price guarantee have you covered!

Ready to shop? Explore our back-to-school collection today! 

With everything from sturdy backpacks to comfy shoes and durable clothing, Rebel Sport has all the essentials to make your back-to-school shopping simple and stress-free. Whether you’re getting the kids ready for their first day of school or gearing up teens for high school sports, you’ll find everything you need in one place.

Start ticking off your checklist now:

• Kids backpacks
• School shoes
• School clothing
• Swimwear, goggles and swim caps
• Drink bottles
• Hats and caps

Get your kids ready for the term ahead with Rebel Sport – shop the full collection today!