10 Back-to-School Items That Defined the ’90s
From neon folders to digital pets, these unforgettable school supplies were staples of every '90s kid’s backpack.
- Chris Graciano
- 2 min read
The ’90s were a golden era for bold school gear and quirky trends that made heading back to class surprisingly fun. Whether it was a flashy pencil case or a high-maintenance Tamagotchi, the supplies you carried were just as important as your first-day outfit. Here are 10 iconic back-to-school items that instantly take you back to homeroom in the ’90s.
1. Lisa Frank Everything
ironypoisoning on Flickr
Folders, notebooks, and stickers covered in rainbow tigers and psychedelic dolphins made school feel like a glittery dream. If you had Lisa Frank gear, you were automatically cool.
2. Trapper Keepers
Liza Lagman Sperl on Flickr
With loud Velcro flaps and bold designs, Trapper Keepers kept your papers secure and your desk stylish. They were part binder, part fashion statement.
3. Gel Pens (Especially Metallic or Scented)
Dan Dennis on Unsplash
Writing notes in sparkly, fruity-smelling ink was peak ’90s. You weren’t just taking notes — you were making art.
4. Pencil Toppers and Grips
Jeff Sandquist on Flickr
From wacky troll dolls to squishy aliens, pencil toppers were a way to show personality. Add a textured grip, and suddenly, you were writing in comfort and style.
5. See-Through Backpacks
Azra Tuba Demir on Pexels
Clear vinyl backpacks were trendy and “cool kid” approved. You could see every colorful pen and secret note inside.
6. Tamagotchis
COSMOH LOVE on Unsplash
You weren’t just a student — you were a virtual pet parent. Tamagotchis beeped in your pocket, begging for food or cleanup mid-class.
7. Giga Pets and Nano Babies
Nxr-at on Wikimedia Commons
Tamagotchi competitors flooded the market, and everyone had their favorite. They were similar but with different creatures and features.
8. Five Star Notebooks
Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash
Sturdy, stylish, and full of organizational pockets, Five Star notebooks were a step above the average spiral. Their perforated pages and slick covers made them the go-to for serious note-takers.
9. Cartoon-Themed Lunchboxes
Steven Miller on Flickr
Your lunchbox said everything about your taste, whether it was Power Rangers, Barbie, or Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. It was a bonus if it came with a matching Thermos.
10. Scented Markers
Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash
Every kid had that one friend who sniffed every color in the marker pack. The cherry red and licorice black were hits; the green? Not so much.