As back-to-school time nears across Canada—from Toronto’s urban energy to rainy Vancouver, vibrant Montreal, and busy Ottawa—having everything ready matters. This 2025 checklist ensures your child starts the school year with comfort, safety, and style. It includes ergonomic backpacks, dependable lunch & bottle solutions, and eco-friendly extras.
Quick Checklist:
- Backpack (16–22 L for younger children; 20–29 L for teens; up to 35 L for heavy schedules)
- Leak-proof lunch box (300–600 ml for young kids; 600–1000 ml for teens)
- BPA-free water bottle or thermos (500–1000 ml)
- Pencil case with basic supplies
- Shoe / Gym bag for sports or indoor use
- Reflective or eco-conscious accessories
1. Backpacks — Ergonomics & Canadian Weather Ready
Size Guide by Grade Level
Grade | Capacity | Features |
---|---|---|
Preschool & Elementary | 16–22 L | Lightweight, padded straps, compartments |
Middle School (Grades 6–8) | 20–26 L | Laptop sleeve, breathable panel, sturdy zippers |
High School (Grades 9–12) | 20–29 L daily; 30–35 L for heavy days | 15–16″ laptop compartment, chest strap, reflective elements |
Model Highlight: Kite K25-2578L-1 Teen Backpack
The premium Kite K25-2578L-1 stands out for ergonomics—featuring Air Comfort back panel, s-shaped padded straps, organizer pockets, chest strap, hidden rear pocket, reflective stickers, and a pendant. Ideal for teens 145–175 cm tall; currently priced at CA$101.60 and ships fast across Canada.
Shop: All Backpacks • Preschool • High School • Backpack Care Guide
2. Lunch Boxes & Meals That Stay Fresh
Essentials to Look For
- Leak-proof, easy-to-clean interiors—key for messy meals and rainy days
- Flat, compact designs to prevent spills during transit
- Insulated versions to keep food warm in fall/winter
Suggested Volume
300–600 ml for younger children; 600–1000 ml for older kids and teens.
Shop: Lunch Boxes & Bottles • Lunchboxes
3. Water Bottles & Thermoses for Canadian Winters
- BPA-free, durable for daily school use
- 500–760 ml for younger students; 600–1000 ml for teens
- Thermoses keep drinks warm on cold winter days
Explore: Lunch Boxes, Bottles & Thermoses
4. Extra Essentials to Include
- Pencil Case with pens, pencils, erasers, highlighters
- Shoe/Gym Bag for indoor shoes or PE gear
- Reflective or personalized tags (in English + French) for easy identification
- Extra clothing layers or gloves for cold regions like Winnipeg or Edmonton
Everything You Need for Back-to-School — Delivered Across Canada
Browse BackpacksFAQs for Back-to-School Canada 2025
What size backpack should my child use?
Preschool/Elementary: 16–22 L; High School: 20–29 L (max 35 L for heavy days). Keep weight under 10–15% of body weight.
How heavy should their backpack be?
No more than 10% of their body weight—for a 50 kg child, ≈5 kg tops.
Which lunchbox size is ideal?
300–600 ml for younger children; 600–1000 ml for older kids.
Are Kite products eco-friendly?
Yes—built for durability with eco-sensitive materials to reduce waste and extend lifecycle.