Top US Back-to-School Shops & How to Ship Worldwide

As summer winds down and the school year looms ahead, it’s time to start thinking about back-to-school shopping. For many families around the world, getting the best school supplies, electronics, and clothes means looking beyond local stores and exploring what the United States retail market has to offer.

While big names like Target and Best Buy are well-known go-tos, there’s a treasure trove of lesser-known US-based retailers that offer unique products, competitive pricing, and high-quality items perfect for the classroom and beyond.

In this post, we’re diving into some of the best underrated or niche US stores where you can find everything from stationery and dorm essentials to tech gadgets and clothing—and how Forwardme makes it easy to ship them internationally, straight to your door.

Why Shop from the US?

Before we explore the stores, let’s talk about why shopping from the US is a smart move for back-to-school shopping:

Better product variety and availability: Access to items not available in your country.
Higher quality and durability: Especially for electronics and clothing.
Exclusive deals and back-to-school promotions: Many US retailers offer limited-time discounts during August and September.
International shipping flexibility with Forwardme: Even stores that don’t ship internationally can be accessed through our forwarding service.

1. JetPens – For Stationery Lovers and Creative Students

If you (or your kids) love beautifully designed, functional, and high-quality stationery, JetPens is a dream come true. Based in California, JetPens specializes in Japanese and international stationery brands that are often hard to find outside of the US.

They offer premium pens, highlighters, mechanical pencils, notebooks, planners, and even specialized study tools like erasable pens, brush pens for note-taking art, and productivity-focused supplies.

Highlights:

Brands like Pilot, Zebra, Tombow, and Kokuyo.
Unique back-to-school kits and bundles.
Great for both elementary students and college students.

JetPens doesn’t ship internationally—but with Forwardme, you can shop without limits.

2. Hanna Andersson – High-Quality, Organic Clothing for Kids

For families looking for ethically produced, ultra-comfortable kids’ clothing that lasts, Hanna Andersson is a hidden gem. Famous for their organic cotton pajamas, Hanna also makes high-quality school apparel, including uniforms, backpacks, and lunch gear.

Their clothes are designed to be passed down from sibling to sibling, making them ideal for parents who value long-term quality over fast fashion.

Highlights:

Organic materials, sustainable production.
Back-to-school collections including layering essentials and outerwear.
Matching family items, too (for younger siblings!).

Hanna Andersson only ships within the US and a few select regions, so Forwardme fills the gap for the rest of the world.

3. Dormify – Chic and Functional Dorm Room Essentials

Going off to college? Dormify is tailored specifically for students living in dorms or shared apartments. They offer stylish, space-saving furniture and décor with a youthful vibe. Think bedding sets, organizers, wall art, lighting, and even mini appliances.

What sets Dormify apart is their curated "dorm kits" that make decorating super simple—even for students shopping last minute.

Highlights:

Designed specifically for small spaces and dorms.
Stylish and functional—perfect for college freshmen.
Offers virtual room planning tools.

International shipping isn’t always available—but with Forwardme, it’s a breeze.

4. Micro Center – Affordable Tech and Accessories

Looking for a budget-friendly alternative to major tech retailers? Micro Center is a favorite among students and tech-savvy shoppers alike. They offer everything from laptops and monitors to software, 3D printers, and study-friendly accessories like webcams and desk lighting.

Although Micro Center has physical stores in select US cities, their online store is fully stocked and often runs student-specific discounts during back-to-school season.

Highlights:

Competitive pricing on laptops, monitors, and accessories.
Great for STEM students and tech enthusiasts.
Offers open-box and refurbished deals for budget-conscious shoppers.

Most of their best deals are US-only—but again, Forwardme can help you access them from anywhere.

5. Zulily – Flash Sales on School Clothing and Gear

If you're the kind of shopper who loves deals and flash sales, Zulily should be on your radar. This site offers limited-time sales on a rotating selection of brands, often including kids' clothing, backpacks, footwear, school supplies, and educational toys.

The best part? The prices. Zulily often sells brand-name items at up to 70% off retail, making it a great way to stretch your back-to-school budget.

Highlights:

Rotating flash sales on brand-name kids’ products.
Offers everything from school uniforms to backpacks and educational tools.
Ideal for parents shopping for multiple kids.

Zulily is also primarily US-based, and their international shipping is limited—perfect use case for Forwardme.

How to Shop From These Stores Internationally Using Forwardme

You’ve filled your cart, found the perfect dorm lamp, and selected the coziest uniform hoodie—now what?

Here’s how Forwardme helps you get those US-only back-to-school goodies to your home, wherever you are in the world:

✅ 1. Get Your Free US Shipping Address

Sign up at Forwardme and instantly receive a free US-based shipping address. This is where your chosen retailers will send your packages.

✅ 2. Shop Any US Store

Use your Forwardme address at checkout—even if the store doesn’t offer international shipping.

✅ 3. We Receive and Consolidate

Once your items arrive at our warehouse, we notify you. You can consolidate multiple packages into one to save on international shipping.

✅ 4. We Ship to You

Choose from multiple carriers and shipping speeds. We handle customs forms and export compliance, so you don’t have to.

✅ 5. Track and Receive

Track your package every step of the way and receive it right at your doorstep—on time for the new school year.

Final Thoughts

Back-to-school season doesn’t have to be stressful—or limited to what’s available in your country. With so many fantastic US retailers offering unique, high-quality, and affordable school products, there’s never been a better time to shop overseas.

And thanks to Forwardme, you don’t have to worry about international shipping restrictions or high costs. We make the US shopping experience accessible, seamless, and affordable—so you or your kids can start the school year fully prepared.

Ready to start shopping?
Create your free Forwardme account today and get access to the best back-to-school shopping the US has to offer.