Back-to-School Must-Haves: Electronics, Appliances and More
As summer starts to come to an end, it's time to start thinking and planning for the upcoming school year. Before creating this year's shopping list, explore our recommendations for back-to-school must-haves to ensure you don't miss anything. From new devices to small appliances, we've compiled a list of products to help enhance the school experience for any student.
The Advantages of a New Laptop
Laptops are one of the most common items recommended for back-to-school must-haves, and there's a good reason for it. These versatile devices are truly the ideal study buddy for taking notes, reviewing lectures and completing projects. Depending on your chosen major, universities might require specific models or features that your current laptop doesn’t have. With the ability to handle data-intensive applications and larger storage capacity, these nifty devices will last throughout your entire school experience. Regardless of your concentration, if you like to have multiple applications open at once, such as listening to an online lecture while typing up notes, then a new laptop is definitely for you.
Depending on your study or work methods, several laptop accessories should also be on your back-to-school must-haves list. As the year goes on, notes and lectures pile up fast — which takes up substantial storage and memory. Plus, as finals creep closer, projects and papers become part of the usual routine, so multitasking and longer sessions are a must. Whether you need an external hard drive, a case for safety or a mouse for ease of use, accessories increase the accessibility for both computers and laptops. Thus, completing school work or maintaining a healthy balance with relaxation is easy to achieve.
New Headphones for Complete Focus
Regardless of whether you choose to study in the library, in your dorm or at a coffee shop, distracting sounds occur everywhere. That's why Investing in new headphones is recommended and typically included within the lists of back-to-school must-haves. Depending on which style you prefer, many models help reduce unwanted or distracting noises that could affect concentration. Noise-canceling technology has become more popular over the years, as many like the focused environment that it provides. However, other models, like open-ear headphones, are great if you're looking for a pair to use while walking to class or exercising. Regardless of your needs, there's a range of headphone designs and features to suit any educational needs.
Staying Caffeinated with a Coffee Maker
From late nights to early mornings, many students like to stay caffeinated during longer days; particularly during exam season. That's why we've included coffee machines on our list for back-to-school must-haves. Whether you're a regular coffee drinker or prefer a cup of tea, there's a range of options that will brew your go-to beverages without needing to leave the dorm room. Plus, by having access to a coffee maker 24/7, you won't need to run to a shop as often, meaning you'll be saving on time and money in the long run. So when you need to stay up late or wake up early to finalize a project, these small appliances will be waiting to help you stay alert and focused.
Mini-Fridges for Quick Meals and Snacks
Occasionally, class schedules don’t line up with dining hall times, or late study sessions surpass the regular operating hours. Therefore, no list is complete without the addition of a compact refrigerator. These back-to-school must-haves truly transform the overall dorm experience by ensuring you stay fed and hydrated. If you like to have convenient access to ice, select a model with a built-in freezer to store ice trays or bags. Freezers also provide plenty of room for frozen treats to share with friends during long study sessions. Mini fridges without freezers mean extra room for fruits and vegetables to ensure you're getting plenty of nutrients while away from home. Regardless of you're eating habits, these handy, small appliances truly provide much-needed space for go-to snacks and quick meals to keep you fed and ready to tackle the day.
Keeping the Space Clean with an Air Purifier
Perhaps one of the less thought-of back-to-school must-haves, air purifiers maintain a healthy, comfortable place for you to live in. Allergens and dust tend to find ways of sneaking into your dorm without you noticing. Plus, the central cooling and heating systems in many dorm buildings mean your room could be prone to getting stuffy and filled with unwanted particles. Air purifiers clear out unwanted dust, allergens and any unwanted particles with a simple click of a button. To guarantee a fresh room when you return from classes, simply have the appliance while out and about. If you attend school during warmer weather, some models come with cooling or dehumidifying abilities for a multi-functional tool.
Relax with a Wireless Speaker
Relaxing with friends or having time for yourself is crucial when promoting a healthy balance between studying and self-care. Whether you prefer to spend time outside or chill within the dorms, portable speakers are a great way to bring an extra level of positivity no matter where you go. These Bluetooth devices are great for ambient noise during group study sessions to keep everyone in the zone. Hoping to catch some rays on the quad in between classes? Keep positive energy up throughout the day and break out your device anywhere. Depending on your needs, browse the wide selection of sizes and features to check off another item on your back-to-school must-haves list.
Keeping Up with Fitness Goals with a New Smartwatch
When not in class, many students like to upkeep their fitness routines either at the on-campus gym or on the quad with friends. With a new smartwatch, tracking the journey couldn't be easier. These products help monitor fitness levels by recognizing a variety of exercises for more accurate results. While keeping track of data is important, many of these devices keep you notified of messages, emails or other important information when connected to your mobile device. From setting alarms to receiving reminders about meetings, stay up-to-date on time-sensitive information without giving up go-to routines. Incorporating a smartwatch in your back-to-school must-haves list means staying connected no matter where the day takes you.
Explore More Products on Abt’s Back-to-School Page
With so many products to choose from, deciding which back-to-school must-haves are right for you might be challenging. That’s where our team of experts can help. If you would like assistance in selecting a product or would like more information about specific features or models, call us at 800-860-3577 and our experts will be happy to help. To explore a variety of buying guides and other helpful articles, navigate to our Learn center to help you find everything for the upcoming year.
Back-to-School FAQs
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Depending on your major or preferred methods of studying, accessories can vary from person to person. Universal accessories typically include a computer mouse, headphones and portable chargers.
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A new laptop is ideal for any student preparing to attend college. Additional items like small appliances or electronics help make the dorm room feel more like home.
