What Should You Include in a Back-to-School Gift Basket?

Back to School Gift Basket Ideas

Back-to-school season is a time filled with excitement, nervous energy, and endless to-do

lists. Whether someone you love is entering kindergarten, heading off to college, or standing at the front of the classroom ready to teach, a back-to-school gift basket is a meaningful way to celebrate the start of a new chapter.

But what exactly goes into a back-to-school basket? Let’s break it down by recipient so you can create (or order!) the perfect bundle of support, encouragement, and fun.

🎒 Back-to-School Gift Ideas for Students

Whether it’s their first day of kindergarten or their senior year of college, students appreciate useful, thoughtful, and comforting gifts. Here's what to include:

For Younger Students (K–5):

• Crayons, washable markers, colored pencils

• Fun pencil case or erasers shaped like animals

• Reusable water bottle or themed lunchbox

• Stickers, activity books, or reading books

• Healthy snacks: applesauce pouches, granola bars, trail mix

For Teens and High Schoolers:

• Spiral notebooks or planners

• Motivational quote cards or affirmations

• Highlighters and pens in fun colors

• Tech accessories: phone stand, charging cable

• Energy snacks or gum for study sessions

For College Students:

• Coffee pods, tea bags, or instant cocoa

• Reusable tumbler or water bottle

• Ramen packs, granola, and protein bars

• Laundry pods, lint roller, or mini sewing kit

• Gift cards (Amazon, Uber Eats, campus café)

• Personalized note of encouragement from home

Pro Tip: Include a study survival kit—flashcards, sticky notes, and a mini stress ball or fidget toy.

Gift Basket Ideas for Teachers

Teachers are the backbone of back-to-school season—and they often don’t get enough recognition. A thoughtful basket can help them kick off the year feeling seen and appreciated.

What to Include:

• Personalized notepads or stationery

• Pens, dry erase markers, and sticky notes

• Hand sanitizer and quality hand lotion

• Snacks like mixed nuts, pretzels, or protein bars

• Herbal tea, coffee, or a coffee shop gift card

• Fun extras like a cute mug or badge holder

• Encouraging thank-you card or student-made artwork

Bonus Tip: Consider a classroom supply basket filled with tissues, disinfecting wipes, and reward stickers—they’ll thank you later!

Thoughtful Back-to-School Gifts for Parents

Parents are juggling so much during this time of year—forms, fees, carpools, and emotions. Give them a gift basket that helps them recharge and feel supported.

Ideas for Parents:

• Bath salts or a calming candle

• Herbal tea, coffee, or a bottle of wine

• A funny “Back to School Survival” tumbler

• Quick snacks (dark chocolate, trail mix, popcorn)

• A journal or planner

• Encouraging note like, “You’re doing great!”

Whether it’s their first child heading off to school or a seasoned parent navigating another year, this thoughtful gesture goes a long way.

Ready-to-Order or Custom Designed

At Creative GiftBasket Designs, we specialize in made-to-order gift baskets designed with your recipient in mind. Tell us who the basket is for, your budget, and any personal touches you'd like to include—we’ll take care of the rest.

Final Thoughts: The Gift of Encouragement

Back-to-school isn’t just about supplies—it’s about showing up for the people in your life during a time of transition. A gift basket sends a clear message: I see you. I’m cheering for you. You’ve got this.

Want help curating the perfect Back-to-School gift basket? Submit a custom order request or browse our gift gallery today! Click here to get started →