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Nordstrom Has Everything You Need for Last Minute Back-to-School Shopping (Starting With These 13 Items)

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No matter how early you start your kid's back-to-school shopping, there's always one thing you end up forgetting to pick up (like a rain jacket and sweatpants for when the weather gets nippy.) This is where Nordstrom comes in. The retailer has a vast inventory and is our go-to for any and all last minute needs.

From functional backpacks to water bottles and comfy shoes, you can find it all in stores and online. On that note, Nordstrom offers fast shipping (some items are eligible for next-day and two-day shipping for a $12 to $20 fee), and it has an incredible return policy as well. (There is no time limit, people!)

Ahead, 13 things that will seriously come in handy this school year, according to parents.

13 Random-but-Useful Finds That Make Back-to-School Shopping Borderline Delightful


Best Nordstrom Back-to-School Rain Jacket Find
Nordstrom

Rainy days are ahead, and they'll need a durable jacket that won't soak through. Enter: The North Face Antora waterproof rain jacket. It's made of recycled polyester, which customers say is incredibly lightweight and breathable. Oh, and did we mention it has a hood?

Best Nordstrom Back-to-School Sock Find
Nordstrom

Since your kids will be on their feet for a decent chunk of the day, they'll appreciate this three-pack of snug Bombas socks that fit their feet like a glove. Made of breathable cotton, they also come with cushioned tabs for added comfort.

Best Nordstrom Back-to-School Backpack Find
Nordstrom

If their old backpack is falling apart, treat them to this popular style that every kid wants. It's available in 27 colors, but most importantly, it's one of the most functional backpacks you can buy because it's water-resistant (it's made of vinylon F), has adjustable straps and exterior zip and slip pockets. Plus, it fits most 13-inch laptops and has a removable foam insert that can be used as a seat pad. Score!

Best Nordstrom Back-to-School Sweatpants Find
Nordstrom

Sweatpants are a kid's best friend year-round, especially during the colder months. Parents are obsessed with these because they have a cotton-blend fleece lining, which keeps their children warm, and their kids love the relaxed fit even more.

Best Nordstrom Back-to-School Mask Find
Nordstrom

So they hate wearing face masks. Maybe this coloring set will make them hate it a little less. It comes with four masks and five permanent markers, which they can use to design and color to their heart's content. The best part is they're machine-washable, so they can keep wearing them throughout the school year.

Best Nordstrom Back-to-School Girl Top Find
Nordstrom

This rayon long-sleeve has a cute twisted hem that makes it different from the other tops she has in her closet. Better yet, you can choose from three colors (purple odyssey, black and grey alloy). And no matter which one you go with, they'll match most of her bottoms.

Best Nordstrom Back-to-School Lunchbox Find
Nordstrom

Bento lunchboxes are huge right now because they make packing lunch a breeze. This durable plastic and silicone one comes with a divider and a removable tray, as well as a snap-strap seal that keeps their food fresh. (Bonus: It's microwave and dishwasher safe.)

Best Nordstrom Back-to-School Rain Boots Find
Nordstrom

For starters, these rubber boots have more than 300 reviews on Nordstrom, most of which rave about how much their kids love them. Take it from this one happy parent: "I recently purchased these for my son who is almost five and my daughter who is two. They both LOVE these boots! These are perfect for the cold temps, snow and slick surfaces. Best of all they kept feet nice and dry."

Best Nordstrom Back-to-School Underwear Find
Nordstrom

Here's one thing you may have forgotten to buy her: new undies. Reviewers can't stop talking about how impressed they are with these hipster briefs that are made from supersoft cotton. This variety pack comes with five pairs (one for each day of the school week).

Best Nordstrom Back-to-School Sneaker Find
Nordstrom

If they don't already own a pair of classic Converses, now is the time to get them some. Specifically, this high-top style made of breathable textile fabric. They'll never go out of style, and according to customers, they're easy to clean.

Best Nordstrom Back-to-School Boxer Briefs Find
Nordstrom

First time buying them boxer briefs? Look no further than this three-pack. The briefs are made of moisture-wicking polyester, and happy parents confirm that their kids love the soft and stretchy fit.

Best Nordstrom Back-to-School Water Bottle Find
Nordstrom

They're bound to get thirsty throughout the day, so this water bottle will definitely come in handy. Instead of having to go to the water fountain every time they need to hydrate, they can sip cold water straight from this 12-ounce stainless steel water bottle. 

Best Nordstrom Back-to-School Button Up Shirt Find
Nordstrom

Print shirts are a must-have for school, and he'll be obsessed with this lightweight cotton button-up that will keep him cool in more ways than one.


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Destinee Scott

Associate Sales and Deals Editor

Destinee Scott is PureWow’s Associate Sales and Deals Editor. She’s been chasing sales and deals for a decade and knows a good one when she sees one for fashion, home, beauty...