Gear up for back-to-school season with these 73 editor-approved deals

CNN

2 days ago

The back-to-school countdown is officially on. Whether you're hunting for supplies for your middle schooler or dorm furniture for a college student, now's the perfect time to snag back-to-school deals that make returning to the classroom a little easier (and way more affordable). From school backpacks that can survive a playground apocalypse to tech gadgets that help make homework less painful, these deals aren't just good; they're borderline essential.
If you're a parent juggling beach days with backpack shopping, you know the drill. So, while you're soaking up those last rays of summer, let our deals experts help you get ahead of the game with the best back-to-school steals to start the school year strong. We've wrangled clothing scores at brands like Lululemon and Old Navy, electronics from Apple, Dell, Lenovo and more.
Apple AirTag, 4-Pack
Stash this Bluetooth tracker in little ones' backpacks and lunches. New drivers can attach one to their keys, or those who travel on campus by bike can use them to locate their rides quickly. A pack of four is bundled for just $80. Read our review
Beats Solo 4
Lock into study time with noise-canceling headphones that block out the distractions. The expert-tested pick offers quality sound and an uninterrupted battery life of up to two weeks. Choose from three on-sale colors. Read our review
Wade Logan Checkered Indoor Rug
Moving them into a dorm this fall? Wayfair has everything you need to furnish and decorate their room — from desks and table lamps to rugs like this stylish checkered option that's up to 58% off in multiple colors.
Kipling Seoul Large Laptop Backpack
Kipling backpacks have been around for years, with their signature monkey keychain in tow. It comes with a bevy of pockets and padded straps. The price just dropped by $50 in seven colors.
Apple 15-Inch MacBook Air M4
The 15-inch MacBook Air M4 is the laptop our tech writer is telling everyone to get. Its combines a larger display with Apple's nimble M4 performance and excellent keyboard.Read our review
Inbox Zero Koree Standing and Height-Adjustable Desks
Whether you're a high schooler, college student or teacher, a standing desk can give you flexibility in your routine to stretch your legs and continue working as needed. This one from Wayfair just got a steep 69% markdown.
Staples Essentials Ergonomic Fabric Swivel Task Chair
Just think of all the hours you'll be stuck cramming or making lesson plans at your desk. An ergonomic office chair like this one will give you more comfort and support. It's also $100 off at Staples. • Amazon: Backpacks from brands like JanSport and Adidas are on sale, plus everything else you'll need for a budget-friendly shopping spree.
• Best Buy: Score top deals on tons of tech essentials, from laptops and headphones to printers and dorm appliances.
• eBay: You can always count on eBay to offer markdowns, and right now is no different. Save on back-to-school must-haves like iPads, laptops, dorm essentials and more.
• Etsy: Unique school accessories, back-to-college decor and more are on sale. Plus, find deals on personalized backpacks, sweatshirts, water bottles and more.
• Macy's: You'll find nice discounts on back-to-school styles for all ages as well as backpacks, learning tools, dorm decor and more.
• Office Depot: Get steep discounts on school supplies, dorm must-haves and classroom essentials at this tried-and-true retailer.
• Staples: Binders, notebooks, pens — no matter what you're looking for, Staples has deals for students of all ages.
• Target: Everything from lunch boxes to electronics is on sale right now, plus discounts on kids' uniforms, school supplies and more up to 30% off.
• Walmart: Check off your entire list in one go at Walmart and save on first-day fashion, snacks, backpacks, laptops and more. School supplies start at just 25 cents.
• Wayfair: Get all the dorm must-haves in one place and save, thanks to discounts on everything from bath mats to laundry hampers to coffee machines.
HP Instant Ink: Never run out of ink. Get three free months of HP Instant Ink when you enroll today and enjoy hassle-free ink delivery and recycling this school year. Exclusions and qualifications apply.
HP Smart Tank: Top-rated HP printers are majorly discounted right now, including the Smart Tank 5101 for $70 off and Smart Tank 6001 for $100 off.
Apple iPad Air M2
A high-end tablet that can handle everything from daily note-taking to creative school projects, the powerful iPad Air M2 comes with nearly $150 in savings.Read our review
Microsoft Surface Laptop
Students benefit from perks like extended returns until Oct. 1, 60-day price protection and flexible financing. Right now, this port-heavy laptop comes with discounted add-ons like extra storage.
Apple AirPods Pro 2
As they head from class to class or go on runs around campus, they'll likely want the most coveted earbuds out there. Luckily, the top-tested AirPods Pro 2s are 32% off on Amazon. Read our review
HP Envy Inspire 7255e Wireless Color Inkjet Printer
Save yourself the trouble of running to the library to collect printed documents now that this color inkjet printer is down to its lowest price of the year at 30% off.
GE 6-Foot 6-Outlet Power Strip With USB Ports
Dorm rooms never have enough power outlets. Thankfully, this GE power strip includes six extra AC outlets at 30% off the going rate. We also love the extended 6-foot power cord.
Twelve South HiRise Pro Adjustable MacBook Stand
Senior deals editor Rikka Altland loves how how quality this MacBook stand is. It has a weighted base for extra stability and room to stow your phone out of sight to stay focused on work. • Back Market: You'll save extra with refurbished tech, and right now Back Market is offering exclusive savings for students and educators.
• JBL: Power them through study sessions by shopping discounts on select portable speakers, noise-canceling headphones, earbuds and more.
• Lenovo: Save hundreds on Chromebooks, tablets, gaming accessories, backpacks and more at Lenovo.
• Logitech: Desktop accessories like mice, microphones, keyboards and more are discounted at Logitech. Plus, larger orders can save even more with upwards of $100 in extra savings.
• Microsoft: Shop Microsoft's deals on Surface tablets, gaming consoles and essentials like Teams and Microsoft 365.
• Newegg: Shop this back-to-school sale with new deals dropping weekly on laptops, desktops and more.
• Samsung: Select earbuds, wearable tech, phones and more are up to hundreds off, so save now in anticipation of a busy semester.
Columbia Women's Hikebound II Jacket
No doubt a rain jacket will come in handy for any season of the year. Snag this one while it's discounted during Columbia's Annual Summer Sale.
Crocs Unisex Baya Clog Sandals
Ease them into dorm life with these editor-loved Crocs. Their nonslip, silicone design makes them a great choice to keep alongside shower caddies.
Adidas Own the Run Shorts
If you'll be participating in athletics or even just wanting to keep comfortable while heading to and from classes, you can snag these classic Adidas track shorts for just $25.
Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 1L Knit Mesh
Lululemon's popular fanny pack comes in a breathable knit mesh. It can hold anything from passports to lip glosses to IDs, and it's great for game days or field trips.
Hoka Arahi 7 Running Shoes
The school season will most certainly bring a flurry of activity. If you'll be on your feet, invest in a pair of Hoka running shoes, like this pick prized for its stability.
Levi's Women's Premium 501 '90s Lightweight Jeans
Everyone needs a solid pair of jeans. These classic 501 style goes with just about any ensemble, and based on our deals editor's own experience, they will last for years to come.
Adidas Samba OG Shoes
Arguably one of the trendiest sneakers right now, the Adidas Sambas are discounted at Dick's Sporting Goods in four different colors. • American Eagle: High schoolers and college students alike can find something on sale while the brand offers 30% off sitewide.
• Athleta: Gear up on activewear during Athleta's Endless Summer Sale.
• Banana Republic: During this sale, take up to 60% off school- and work-friendly styles, plus an extra 30% off sale items.
• Carter's: Take 40% off clothing for kids of all ages, including first-day-ready fashions.
• Champion: Stock up and save 25% on select clothes and athletic apparel.
• Columbia: The Annual Summer Sale is on, which means up to 50% off outdoor apparel like rain jackets and hiking boots.
• Converse: Take up to 40% off almost everything sitewide with code SUMMERSALE.
• Crocs: Score Crocs for up to 50% off and accessorize with Jibbitz as low as $3.
• Dick's Sporting Goods: Brands like Nike, Hoka, Adidas and Under Armour are up to 25% off for everything from class to after-school activities.
• Gap: Score up to 60% off during the Back-to-School Event, including backpacks starting at just $29.
• HeyDude: The familiar boat shoes are 25% off during their back-to-school sale.
• J.Crew Factory: Get up to 60% off everything and an extra 60% off clearance for a limited time.
• Kt by Knix: Prepare for periods ahead with discounted bundles of leakproof underwear.
• Lands' End: The outfitter has no shortage of deals on summer-ready styles, including swimwear, dresses and more.
• Lululemon: Summer Scores can be found in Lululemon's We Made Too Much section.
• Naadam: During this End of Season Sale, take up to half off a wide selection of cashmere, plus warm weather styles too.
• Nike: Get set for school with an additional 20% off select products like Air Jordan sneakers, polo shirts and cargo pants. Just use code SPORT to lock in the extra savings.
• Old Navy: Get major discounts on kids' clothes — including dress code and uniform-approved fits — with 40% off styles and 50% off back-to-school picks through July 31.
• Patagonia: Shop past-season gear and apparel in the brand's Web Specials for your upcoming outdoor adventures
• Reebok: There's a lot to love during this back-to-school promo, with 35% off full-priced styles and an extra 50% off select sale styles with code BTS through Aug. 5.
• Rothy's: Whether you're headed back to campus or commuting to the office, Rothy's shoes are chic wardrobe staples, and a bunch of last-chance styles are up to 50% off.
• Stitch Fix Kids: Outfit your growing kid with the help of this online personal styling service, now offering new clients 20% off and a waived styling fee with their first Fix.
• ThirdLove: Select bestselling bras like the T-Shirt Bra are discounted in the brand's sale section.
• Under Armour: Tons of athletic gear deals are live at Under Armour's outlet.
• Urban Outfitters: Score BOGO 50% off all denim from UO's in-house brand, BDG, in addition to other deals on trendy home and apparel.
• Zappos: A ton of school-ready footwear and clothes are up to 50% off at Zappos for an affordable one-stop shop.
Glasses USA Ottoto Weston
Available in clear, tortoiseshell, red and more, these prescription frames are stylish and more affordable during the eyeglass retailer's sale.
Dae Freshly Squeezed Wash Set
Stock up their shower caddy with this pleasant, grapefruit-scented hair care set. The travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, leave-in conditioner and dry shampoo is bundled now for less.
Shark SpeedStyle Pro Flex
No matter what their days ahead look like, this speedy hair dryer will get them ready in record time. Bundled with four attachments, it's discounted by $50 at Dermstore.
La Roche-Posay 6.7-Ounce Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser
Quell breakouts and cystic acne with this blemish-fighting facial wash. It hails from the popular French-founded brand La Roche-Posay and touts a frills-free formula. • Dermstore: Your favorite beauty brands like Paula's Choice, Anastasia Beverly Hills and more are up to 30% off.
• Glasses USA: Snag prescription eyeglass frames for 30% off when you use code SAVE30. Those who need an upgrade to progressive lenses can save 50% off.
• Kinship: Save up to 30% on skin care like the Probiotic Sunscreen.
• Murad: Shop the Friends + Family Sale for 25% off sitewide. Use code FAMILY25.
• Sephora: Popular brands like Youth to the People, Fenty, Tarte, Too Faced and more are on sale.
• Soko Glam: In Soko's sale section, take up to 30% off select K-beauty skin care brands.
• Ulta Beauty: Ulta's Glow Back to School Sale is still live for a limited time, with deals on SPFs, makeup and more.
Calpak Kids' School Essentials Bundle With Small Backpack
One of our favorite luggage makers has tons of backpacks for school and travel that our editors are big fans of. In June, the brand launched its kids' collection and this five-piece set is already down to just $99.
Vera Bradley Bancroft Backpack
This quintessential quilted backpack hails from Vera Bradley, and it's been used by students for years to tote their belongings, including laptops up to 17 inches. The popular style is down to $100 during the Back-to-School Shopping Event.
Pottery Barn Kids Spencer Stainless Nesting Container Trio
Pack anything from trail mix to fruits to soup inside these handy stainless steel containers. For $23, they come with secure silicone lids to prevent the contents from spilling on commutes.
Samsonite Freeform 2-Piece Set
When deals editor Jacqueline Saguin graduated from high school, she was gifted a set of luggage that followed her to college, on study abroad and through the move to her first apartment. Snag this carry-on and checked luggage duo for 43% off.
Kipling City Zip Mini Printed Backpack
The mini version of Kipling's iconic backpack is up to 50% off right now. It can fit smaller books, a water bottle and more. Just note that it's best suited for an elementary-aged kid, as its a bit more compact than the original.
Cotopaxi 20L Moda Cada Día Backpack
This go-anywhere backpack turns into sport mode with its cinchable top. It builds in organizational pockets, like a laptop sleeve, a mesh water bottle pocket and a couple of smaller slots that your calculator and notebooks can slide into.
Fjällräven Kånken Backpack
This Swedish brand's bags are durable enough to survive winters in the Arctic Circle, so they can easily handle trips to the classroom. This iconic backpack is made from dirtproof and water-resistant material and includes zip pockets and ergonomic shoulder straps.
Cotopaxi 6-Liter Botana Lunch Bag
Save 50% on this tastefully colorblocked lunch bag from Cotopaxi. The brand makes some of our favorite daypacks and outdoor gear, but its deep discounts on backpacks, totes and more are stealing the show ahead of the back-to-school season. • Calpak: Return to campus in style and save. Right now a selection of backpacks, totes, tech organizers and more are up to 50% off at Calpak.
• Cotopaxi: One of our favorite outdoor clothing and gear brands marked down tons of backpacks, totes and even lunch bags.
• Kipling: Back-to-school styles are up to 40% off at the brand that makes our associate deals editor's favorite backpack.
• Pottery Barn Kids: Score up to 60% off backpacks, lunch boxes and more in a bunch of patterns and styles right now.
• Samsonite: For all their study abroad plans or for extra storage, snag sturdy luggage for up to 40% off.
• Vera Bradley: For a limited time, shop the Back-to-School Shopping Event, which includes savings on quilted backpacks, lunch totes and more.
Brooklinen Super-Plush Turkish Cotton Towel Move-In Bundle
This plush bath towel set contains everything you need if you're moving into a new space sans linens. Get bath and hand towels, washcloths and a mat all for 25% off.
The Container Store 3-Tier Rolling Cart
Fill that empty corner in your bathroom with this $28 rolling cart. It has three containers for makeup, toiletries and the like, and will help maximize storage in your space on a budget.
Amerisleep AS3 Hybrid Mattress
Deals editor Jacqueline Saguin adores her Amerisleep mattress for its cloud like feel. Currently, it's best selling AS3 along with others is $500 off. This model is great for those who run hot and offers a "medium feel."
Coop Sleep Goods Original Mattress Topper
If buying a new mattress is out of the budget, Coop makes a mattress topper that'll make it feel like new. It offers down-like comfort that you can sink into and is 20% off in all four sizes.
Ostrichpillow Memory Foam Bed Pillow
Stay comfortable on the go with Ostrichpillow's foldable bed pillow. It can fit in a carry-on bag or backpack so you can sleep soundly on your next leisure or work trip.
Vaya Mattress
Score $300 off any mattress at Vaya with code VAYA300. Foam mattresses from the brand start at as low as $449 and give off a cooling effect with its open-cell and sweat-wicking design.
Brooklyn Bedding Chunky-Knit Weighted Blanket
Wrap yourself in a buttery soft and calming weighted blanket. Choose a weight of 10 or 15 pounds in two neutral colors that'll go with anything in your home.Helix GlacioTex Cooling Memory Foam Pillow
Back and stomach sleepers will adore the low-profile build on this Helix memory foam pillow. You can try it out for a month risk free. Plus, now it's 20% off with code LDW20. • Amerisleep: Take $500 off any mattress with code AS500.
• Brooklinen: Take 15% off your first order, which includes bath items — from towels to bath mats to robes.
• Brooklyn Bedding: Mattresses, pillows, adjustable bases and more are 25% off with code SCHOOL25.
• Coop Sleep Goods: Save 20% on Coop's back-to-school essentials, like adjustable pillows, cooling sheet sets and mattress toppers.
• FlexiSpot: Take up to 50% off an assortment of motorized standing desks loved by CNN Underscored editors.
• Gravity: Ensure a good night's sleep before the big exam now that Gravity's weighted blankets and more discounted.
• Helix: The mattress retailer's Labor Day sale has begun with 20% off sitewide using code LDW20.
• Ikea: Shop college essential deals and get up to 15% off desks, bed and bath linens, storage and more.
• Lovesac: Lovesac offers ingenious modular furniture solutions like embedded speakers and adaptable sectionals. Take up to 30% off Sac bundles and up to 25% off Sactionals.
• The Container Store: Shop savings at The Container Store's College Shop, featuring all the organization, kitchen essentials and furniture you'll need. Just text COLLEGE to 22822 for 25% off your purchase.
• Ostrichpillow: Save on cooling products like the Memory Foam Bed Pillow.
• Vaya: Save $300 on any mattress using code VAYA300.
• Zoma: Take 25% off any mattress with code SLEEP25 with free shipping and returns through Aug. 10.
Papier Delftware Spiral Academic Year Planner
Grab one journal for jotting recipes and another for tracking wellness goals, or one for class notes and one for, well, journaling. Either way, students get a 15% discount.
Ban.do Medium 17-Month Academic Planner
Stay on top of your assignments and extracurriculars come fall with this 17-month planner. It's packed with tons of stickers, a coloring page and charts to track what you're reading. Use code CAKE for 30% off.
Society 6 Midcentury Abstract Shapes Spring Laptop Sleeve
Keep your laptop stylish and protected with a slim sleeve from Society 6. Many of us shopped at this retailer during undergrad, and it sells prints, accessories and more that are geared toward recent grads.
Ban.do Sticker Book
Stay motivated all school year long with the coolest stickers designed by cool artists at Ban.do. The flip book comes with over 700 pieces that are arranged by color, if you happen to be type-A or are a fan of intentional designs.
Papier Monogram Black Leather Notebook
If you want a discreet notebook to jot down thoughts, this one stands the test of the time with its classic monogram design. There are many options to save: Students save 15%, or you can apply "buy one, get one 25% off" notebooks.
The Happy Planner 2025–2026 Teaching Seasons Customizable Teacher Planner
Teachers can get their lesson plans all sorted for the year with this planner's monthly and weekly spreads and classroom checklist pages. Its seasonal dividers bring a bit more fun to work.
Society 6 Wide Stripe Desk Mat
As you type through papers or stare at your monitor, bring some whimsy to your desk with this striped mat. It'll give you a smoother mouse scroll while sitting pretty underneath keyboards. For Society 6's sale, it's $10 off.
The Happy Planner Silver Deluxe Cover
A polished way to keep your planner in order, this shiny, snap-close cover is great for toting to and from classes or for bringing to your lesson planning. • Ban.do: Save 30% off everything you need to make your space feel more like a home with code CAKE. We're talking Ban.do decor like vases, dishes and more, with 17% off everything else with code ICECREAM.
• Happy Planner: Get organized with discounted planners.
• Papier: For the Birthday Sale, score up to 30% sitewide, while taking 10% off academic planners.
• Society6: During this back-to-school sale, you'll get up to 30% off dorm decor, like wall art, tapestries, throw pillows and more. Stack an extra 10% with code ADD10.
This summer's back‑to‑school deals offer savvy shoppers a head start on savings — and a chance to beat last‑minute price hikes. With major retailers like Amazon, Target and Walmart (to name a few) rolling out discounts on tech, dorm essentials, school supplies, apparel and more, now's the time for parents and students alike to stock up early and lock in deep markdowns before items sell out or prices rise on laptops, tablets, headphones and backpacks.
Quite simply, our goal is to save you money. With decades of experience combined, our team of deals editors — Rikka Altland, Jacqueline Saguin and Elena Matarazzo — know how to advocate for buyers by making sure we're only recommending the best prices on the best products. We source deals on products loved by CNN Underscored experts or tested by experts, so you know you're getting a worthwhile buy on all fronts.