Back to school sales 2022 — best deals you can still get

A collage of tech devices including PS5, AirPods Pro and more

Back to school sales are rapidly winding down. However, there are still plenty of great last-minute deals you can get. But you have to act fast because many of these back to school sales will expire soon. 

One of our favorite back to school sales this week comes courtesy of Best Buy. The retailer is taking up to $400 off MacBooks, up to $1,000 off iPhone 14 phones, and iPads from $279. You can shop Best Buy's Apple sale via this Best Buy link. (The 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros are at their lowest prices ever). 

Below we're rounding up the best back to school deals on everything from Chromebooks to dorm-friendly coffee machines. So whether you're shopping for a new laptop or your first mattress, here are today's best early back to school sales. Also, check out our guide to the best student discounts on streaming services.

You can also look at our tips to pick the perfect back to school laptop and why noise-cancelling headphones are college essentials.

(We also have a complete back to school gift guide for every budget).

Best back to school sales

MacBooks

MacBook Air (M2/256GB): was $1,199 now $1,099 @ Amazon

MacBook Air (M2/256GB): was $1,199 now $1,099 @ Amazon
Lowest price! The MacBook Air M2 boasts a load of new features. It includes a larger 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display (2560 x 1664), Apple's new M2 w/ 8-core GPU, 8GB of RAM, 256GB SSD, 1080p FaceTime camera, four-speaker system with Spatial Audio, and MagSafe charging. It's $100 off and at its lowest price ever. 

MacBook Pro 13" (M1/256GB): was $1,299 now $999 @ Best Buy

MacBook Pro 13" (M1/256GB): was $1,299 now $999 @ Best Buy
The MacBook Pro with Apple's M1 chip delivers performance that runs circles around Windows laptops, and you get a brighter display than the MacBook Air and beefier 8-core graphics. Even better, the system lasted over 16 hours in our battery test. It's no longer Apple's flagship, but at this price it's a solid value.

MacBook Pro 13" (M2/256GB): was $1,299 now $1,149 @ Amazon

MacBook Pro 13" (M2/256GB): was $1,299 now $1,149 @ Amazon
The new MacBook Pro sports a 13.3-inch Retina display (2560 x 1600), Apple's new M2 CPU w/ 10 core GPU, 8GB of RAM, and a 256GB SSD. In our MacBook Pro 13-inch M2 review, we said it delivers mind-blowing performance and an epic 18:20 battery life. It's been $200 off earlier this summer, but still a solid deal at its current sale price. 

MacBook Air (M1/256GB): was $999 now $899 @ B&H Photo

MacBook Air (M1/256GB): was $999 now $899 @ B&H Photo
The MacBook Air offers fantastic performance thanks to its Apple Silicon. The M1 CPU also helped it reach over 14 hours on our battery test. It features a 13.3-inch Retina display, Apple M1 CPU, 8GB of RAM, and a 256GB SSD. It's been cheaper (it hit $749 last summer), but it's still a solid deal at this price even though it's no longer Apple's flagship. By comparison, Amazon has it for $949.

MacBook Pro 14" (M1 Pro/512GB): was $1,999 now $1,599  @ Best Buy

MacBook Pro 14" (M1 Pro/512GB): was $1,999 now $1,599  @ Best Buy
Save $400! The 2021 MacBook Pro sports Apple's new M1 Pro CPU, which delivers 8 more GPU cores, a better Media Engine, and more memory bandwidth than the already incredible M1 chip. It's also Apple's first 14-inch MacBook Pro featuring a 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR mini-LED display with 3024 x 1984 resolution. Others specs include 16GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD. You also get three Thunderbolt 4 ports, HDMI port, SDXC card slot, and a MagSafe 3 port.

MacBook Pro 16" (M1 Pro/512GB): was $2,499 now $2,099 @ Best Buy

MacBook Pro 16" (M1 Pro/512GB): was $2,499 now $2,099 @ Best Buy
Save $400! The 16-inch MacBook Pro sports Apple's new M1 Pro CPU. It features 10 core and a 16-core GPU. It also features a 16-inch Liquid Retina XDR mini-LED display with 3456 x 2244 resolution. Others specs include 16GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD. You also get three Thunderbolt 4 ports, HDMI port, SDXC card slot, and a MagSafe 3 port. This model can be configured with an even more powerful M1 Max CPU (from $3,499), which features a 10-core CPU and 32-core GPU. 

Mac/iPad: up to $150 free gift card @ Apple

Mac/iPad: up to $150 free gift card @ Apple
Back to school season is here! Students and educators who purchase an eligible Mac will get up to a $150 gift card for free. Alternatively, purchase select iPads and you'll get a $100 gift card. The gift card can be spent on anything at the Apple Store and it's in addition to Apple's educational discounts, which take up to $100 off select Macs and iPads.

Laptops

Dell XPS 13: was $999 now $849 @ Dell

Dell XPS 13: was $999 now $849 @ Dell
The XPS 13 is the best Windows laptop you can buy. For a limited time, Dell is offering its new XPS 13 laptop for just $849. This configuration packs a 13.4-inch 1920 x 1200 InfinityEdge display, Core 5-1230U CPU, 8GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD. It's the lowest price we've seen for this configuration all year. 

HP PC sale: deals from $329 @ HP

HP PC sale: deals from $329 @ HP
75% off laptops: Back to school sales are still ongoing at HP and the manufacturer is taking up to 75% off select machines. After discount, laptops start as low as $329, whereas select tablets are just $299. 

Dell back to school: 6-month free Disney Plus @ Dell

Dell back to school: 6-month free Disney Plus @ Dell
Dell is offering one of the more unique back to school sales we've seen. Buy select laptops/monitors/desktops, and you'll get 6 free months of the Disney Plus bundle. It includes Disney Plus, EPSN Plus, and Hulu. Select purchases (XPS/Alienware) will also get you 1 year of accidental damage protection and a wireless mouse for free. This deal is valid through September 22 at 6 a.m. ET. 

Lenovo CB3 Chromebook: was $279 now $149 @ Walmart

Lenovo CB3 Chromebook: was $279 now $149 @ Walmart
If you want a no-frills Chromebook to take notes or check e-mail, this is your machine. It packs a 14-inch LCD, Celeron N4020 CPU, 4GB of RAM, and 64GB eMMC storage. It also comes with a free headset. Just keep in mind, this is a budget machine designed for light tasks. It includes a free headset. 

HP Pavilion 15z: was $549 now $379 @ HP

HP Pavilion 15z: was $549 now $379 @ HP
Back to school sales have started at HP and the 15z is one of the most affordable laptops in the manufacturer's ongoing sale. It packs a 15.6-inch 1366 x 768 LCD, AMD Ryzen 5 5500U CPU, 8GB of RAM, and a 128GB SSD. We recommend upgrading to the 15.6-inch 1080p IPS display for +$10 during checkout. 

Lenovo Chromebook Duet 5 OLED: was $499 now $379 @ Best Buy

Lenovo Chromebook Duet 5 OLED: was $499 now $379 @ Best Buy
The original Lenovo Chromebook Duet earned a spot on our list of best Chromebooks. While we've yet to test the Duet 5, on paper this Chromebook appears to be a worthy successor. It features a detachable keyboard and fabric back cover with built-in kickstand, 13.3-inch 1080p OLED display, Snapdragon SC7180 CPU, 4GB of RAM, and a 64GB eMMC. 

HP x2 Chromebook 11:  was $599 now $479 @ Best Buy

HP x2 Chromebook 11: was $599 now $479 @ Best Buy
This HP Chromebook features a full-size detachable keyboard and oversized touchpad to keep you productive no matter where you are. You also get an 11-inch 2160 x 1440 touch LCD, Qualcomm Snapdragon 7c processor, 8GB RAM, and 64GB eMMC. 

Samsung Galaxy Book Pro: was $1,099 now $695 @ Amazon

Samsung Galaxy Book Pro: was $1,099 now $695 @ Amazon
Amazon has an epic deal on the larger model of Samsung's Galaxy Book Pro laptop that takes it down below $1,000. For that you'll get a 15.6-inch Galaxy Book Pro with a 1080p AMOLED screen, an 11th Gen Core i5 CPU, 8GB of RAM, and a 512 GB SSD. It's a solid laptop, especially at this price, and the AMOLED display is gorgeous.

Acer Nitro 5 w/ RTX 3050: was $839 now $694 @ Amazon

Acer Nitro 5 w/ RTX 3050: was $839 now $694 @ Amazon
The Acer Nitro 5 is a solid budget gaming laptop, featuring an Intel Core i5-10300H CPU, 8 GB RAM, 256 GB storage and a full HD 144 Hz screen. This laptop is a great choice for gamers who want to play big-budget games at moderate settings.

MacBook Pro 13" (M2/256GB): was $1,299 now $1,149 @ Amazon

MacBook Pro 13" (M2/256GB): was $1,299 now $1,149 @ Amazon
The new MacBook Pro sports a 13.3-inch Retina display (2560 x 1600), Apple's new M2 CPU w/ 10 core GPU, 8GB of RAM, and a 256GB SSD. In our MacBook Pro 13-inch M2 review, we said it delivers mind-blowing performance and an epic 18:20 battery life. It's been $200 off earlier this summer, but still a solid deal at its current sale price. 

Tablets

10.2" iPad (64GB/2021): was $329 now $279 @ Amazon

10.2" iPad (64GB/2021): was $329 now $279 @ Amazon
Lowest price! The 2021 iPad features Apple's A13 Bionic CPU, a new 12MP front camera, and 64GB of storage (instead of 32GB like its predecessor). You also get support for Center Stage, which uses machine learning to adjust the front-facing camera during FaceTime video calls. Deals on this base model are rare, so snatch this up now that it's at its lowest price ever. The 256GB model is also on sale for $429 ($50 off). 

Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite (64GB/WiFi): was $349 now $249 @ Amazon

Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite (64GB/WiFi): was $349 now $249 @ Amazon
The Samsung Galaxy S6 Lite has a bright display, long battery life, and a sleek design. Best of all, it comes with the S-Pen included. In our Galaxy Tab S6 Lite review, we called it one of the best Android tablets and a solid competitor to Apple's entry-level iPad. 

8.3" iPad mini (64GB/2021): was $499 now $399 @ Amazon

8.3" iPad mini (64GB/2021): was $499 now $399 @ Amazon
The 2021 iPad mini features an all new thin-bezel design, a larger 8.3.inch Liquid Retina display, A15 Bionic CPU, 12MP wide camera, and USB-C connectivity. It also works with the Apple Pencil 2. Rarely on sale, this Wi-Fi model is $100 off. 

iPad Air (64GB/2022): was $599 now $559 @ Amazon

iPad Air (64GB/2022): was $599 now $559 @ Amazon
The 2022 iPad Air is out. The new tablet is powered by Apple's M1 processor, which features an 8-core CPU that delivers up to 60% faster performance than the previous-gen iPad Air. Other new features include a 12MP ultra wide front camera that supports Center Stage and 5G support (cellular models only). The tablet features a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display (2360 x 1640), 12MP wide (rear) camera, USB-C charging, and Magic Keyboard support. 

11" iPad Pro (128GB/2021): was $799 now $749 @ Amazon

11" iPad Pro (128GB/2021): was $799 now $749 @ Amazon
The 11-inch iPad Pro sports Apple's M1 CPU for record-breaking speed and performance. It features a stunning 11-inch Liquid Retina display with 120Hz Pro Motion, TrueTone, and P3 wide color. You also get 12MP wide and 10MP ultra-wide cameras and Wi-Fi 6 support. Amazon has the 128GB model at its lowest price to date, which makes this one of the best deals you'll find for Apple's pro tablet. 

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8: was $699 now $571 @ Amazon

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8: was $699 now $571 @ Amazon
The newest addition to Samsung's Galaxy Tab range, the S8 features a 11-inch Full HD 120Hz display, a 12MP front-facing camera, three microphones and a Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 CPU. It's now at its lowest price to date. 

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Plus: was $899 now $794 @ Amazon

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Plus: was $899 now $794 @ Amazon
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Plus offers all the same great features as it's standard sibling, but adds a bigger and more vibrant 12.4-inch AMOLED display and 5G connectivity. 

Surface Pro 7: was $899 now $661 @ Amazon

Surface Pro 7: was $899 now $661 @ Amazon
This back to school laptop deal takes a generous $238 off Microsoft's tablet. It packs a 12.3-inch (2736 x 1824) PixelSense display, 10th-gen Core i5 CPU, 8GB of RAM and a 128GB SSD. It's one of the best prices we've seen for this configuration, though keep in mind the Type Cover is not included.

Cord Cutting

Sling TV:  50% off first month @ Sling

Sling TV: 50% off first month @ Sling
Sling TV is an affordable live TV service that offers flexibility and lots of customization. For a limited time, new Sling subscribers get 50% off their first month. You can sign up for Sling Orange ($35/month) or Sling Blue ($35/month) — or a combination of both packages ($50/month). After discount, prices for the first month are $17.50 and $25, respectively. Plus, you'll get a free month of Showtime, Starz, and Epix.

Spotify Premium Student: was $21.98/month now $4.99/month @ Spotify

Spotify Premium Student: was $21.98/month now $4.99/month @ Spotify
Spotify Premium Student bundles Spotify Premium, Hulu (ad-supported), and Showtime for just $4.99/month. Traditionally, all three services would cost you $21.98/month, which makes this an extraordinary deal (77% off) for cash-strapped students. You'll need to re-verify your eligibility every 12 months. Additionally, you're only entitled the student rate for a maximum of four years.

Amazon Fire TV Stick Lite: was $29 now $19 @ Amazon

Amazon Fire TV Stick Lite: was $29 now $19 @ Amazon
The Fire TV Stick Lite is a cheaper version of the Fire TV 4K Stick. This 1080p streamer supports HDR, HDR 10, HDR10+, and HLG, but it lacks Dolby Atmos Audio and dedicated volume/power buttons. Otherwise, this streamer is your best pick if you're looking for a cheap option. 

Fire TV Stick 4K: was $49 now $29 @ Amazon

Fire TV Stick 4K: was $49 now $29 @ Amazon
The Fire TV Stick 4K is one of the best streaming devices available, offering 4K Ultra HD streaming at 60fps with HDR support and including an Alexa Voice Remote. Right now it's $20 off in this back to school sale.

Roku Express 4K Plus 2021: was $39 now $29 @ Amazon

Roku Express 4K Plus 2021: was $39 now $29 @ Amazon
A major upgrade over the Roku Premiere, the Roku Express 4K Plus is the cheapest 4K device right now. It's a must for any college dorm room and one of the better back to school sales we've seen for a Roku 2021 device. 

Apple TV 4K 2021: was $179 now $169 @ Amazon

Apple TV 4K 2021: was $179 now $169 @ Amazon
If you live in the Apple ecosystem, you know how rare deals like this are. Yes, even $10 off the Apple TV 4K (32GB) is surprising to see, so act fast on this back to school sale while it's in stock. 

Bedding

Brooklyn Bedding: 25% off sitewide @ Brooklyn Bedding

Brooklyn Bedding: 25% off sitewide @ Brooklyn Bedding
As part of its back to school sale — Brooklyn Bedding is taking 25% off everything via coupon code "SCHOOL25". The sale includes mattresses, bedding sets, weighted blankets, bases, and more. The Dreamfoam Essential holds a spot in our best budget mattress guide for being one of the best inexpensive cooling beds you'll find. After coupon, it starts at $205 for the twin or $393 for the queen. 

Luna Adult Weighted Blanket: was $76 now $69 @ Amazon

Luna Adult Weighted Blanket: was $76 now $69 @ Amazon
The Luna Adult Weighted Blanket is 20% off on Amazon — the lowest price we've seen. Its hypoallergenic construction, breathable cover and medical-grade glass bead filling for even weight distribution were all reasons why we voted this one of the best weighted blankets.

Tempur-Adjustable Support Pillow: 2-pack for $99 @ Tempur-Pedic

Tempur-Adjustable Support Pillow: 2-pack for $99 @ Tempur-Pedic
Editor's Choice deal: Normally priced at $69 each, Tempur-Pedic has its Adjustable Support Pillows on sale. Currently, you can get two pillows for just $99. That's $39 off and one of the best bedding sales we've seen on Tempur-Pedic pillows. The pillow uses the Tempur's proprietary blend of materials to offer pressure relief and comfort. (Editor's Note: I've been using these pillows for a month and find they offer the perfect balance between firm and soft). 

Nectar Memory Foam Mattress: was $499 now $399 + $499 of free gifts @ Nectar

Nectar Memory Foam Mattress: was $499 now $399 + $499 of free gifts @ Nectar
The Nectar Memory Foam Mattress is our favorite bed. Nectar is taking $100 off all mattresses and bundling a free $499 sleep bundle. (The bundle includes two pillows, sheet set, and mattress protector). This is our top mattress pick for just about any type of sleeper. It's very comfortable and it offers excellent pressure relief around your shoulders, hips, and back. Currently, the twin costs $399 (was $499), whereas the queen costs $799 (was $899). 

Allswell Mattress Topper: was $68 now $54 @ Allswell

Allswell Mattress Topper: was $68 now $54 @ Allswell
The Allswell Mattress Topper offers 2 inches of breathable foam between you and your mattress to promote better airflow and moisture wicking. Use coupon code "EXTRA20" to drop its price to $54 for the twin or $78 for the queen. 

Phones

Mint Mobile: free $20 gift card when you switch @ Mint Mobile

Mint Mobile: free $20 gift card when you switch @ Mint Mobile
Mint Mobile is offering a free $20 gift card when you switch from Verizon or AT&T. You'll need to enter coupon code "GIFTCARD20" during the checkout process. Mint Mobile plans start at $15/month for 4GB/month of 5G data or $30/month for unlimited 5G data. 

Boost Mobile: unlimited 5G data for $25/month @ Boost Mobile

Boost Mobile: unlimited 5G data for $25/month @ Boost Mobile
Boost Mobile is offering new customers unlimited 5G data for just $25/month. The plan also includes unlimited talk/text. Traditionally priced at $45/month, it's one of the most aggressive discounts we've seen from Boost Mobile. The deal also includes a free SIM kit ($9.99  value) and free shipping ($4.99 value). It'll work with most unlocked GSM phones. 

Google Pixel 6a: free w/ unlimited @ Verizon

Google Pixel 6a: free w/ unlimited @ Verizon
The Pixel 6a is the most powerful and fastest Pixel phone to date. Features include a 6.1-inch OLED display, Google's Tensor chipset, 6GB of RAM, 128GB of storage, 12MP main/rear cameras, and an 8MP front camera. Sign up for a 5G unlimited plan and you can get the phone for free at Verizon. 

iPhone SE 2022: free w/ unlimited + new line @ Verizon

iPhone SE 2022: free w/ unlimited + new line @ Verizon
New and existing members can get a new iPhone SE 2022 for free when you open a new unlimited line. That's $429 off and one of the best back to school deals we've seen. No trade-in is required for this deal. 

Unlocked Moto G Power (2021): was $249 now $159 @ Amazon

Unlocked Moto G Power (2021): was $249 now $159 @ Amazon
There are multiple versions of the Moto G Power out there, but the 2021 model lasts the longest and has a better processor than the 2022 version. Amazon is knocking the price of the 2021 model to just $159. When it comes to duration, it featured the best phone battery life, though a more recent gaming recently supplanted it. Still, this is a long-lasting bargain handset. 

Galaxy S22: free with trade-in @ AT&T

Galaxy S22: free with trade-in @ AT&T
For a limited time, new and existing AT&T customers can trade in any Samsung Galaxy phone (it can be from any year and in any condition) and you'll get the Galaxy S22 for free. You'll need to sign up to an unlimited data plans. That's one of the best AT&T phone deals we've seen this month. 

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3: was $999 now $299 @ Best Buy

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3: was $999 now $299 @ Best Buy
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 is the most affordable foldable phone available and this deal at Best Buy makes it even cheaper. In our Galaxy Z Flip 3 review, we called it an "affordable" foldable that's built to withstand more punishment than its predecessor. It features a 6.7-inch (2640 x 1080) Super AMOLED inner display (when unfolded) with a refresh rate of up to 120Hz, 1.9-inch Super AMOLED outer display (260 x 512), Snapdragon 888 CPU, 8GB of RAM, 128GB storage, and 12MP main/12MP ultrawide camera lenses.

Gaming

PS5 : register for invite-only drops @ Amazon

PS5 : register for invite-only drops @ Amazon
Amazon is now letting shoppers register for invite-only PS5 restocks. Just click the link above, request an invite, and if accepted you'll get an email with a link that's valid for 72 hours. Amazon doesn't guarantee you'll get invited immediately, but this should increase your chances of getting a console going forward. 

Xbox Series X: for $499 @ Microsoft

Xbox Series X: for $499 @ Microsoft
The Xbox Series X is Microsoft's new flagship console. It features 12 teraflops of graphics power, 16GB of RAM, 1TB SSD, and Blu-ray drive. It runs games at 4K resolution and 60 frames per second with a max of 8K at 120 fps. The Editor's Choice console represents the pinnacle of Microsoft's gaming efforts. Click "build your bundle" to begin. Then click the $499 console in the "choose your bundle" section and then click "add to bundle." (You don't have to build a full bundle and can purchase the standalone console). 

Elden Ring: was $59 now $45 @ Amazon

Elden Ring: was $59 now $45 @ Amazon
The latest action RPG from legendary developer FromSoftware, Elden Ring sees Hidetaka Miyazaki and George R. R. Martin team up to create a new horrifically hostile world. Venture to the Lands Between and become the Elden Lord, if you're brave enough. 

Guardians of the Galaxy: was $59 now $24 @ Amazon

Guardians of the Galaxy: was $59 now $24 @ Amazon
Join the Guardians of the Galaxy on an all-new original adventure. Play as Star-Lord and lead your motley crew to victory as you call the shots both in and out of battle. You'll need to prepare to face a cosmic threat that is hellbent on intergalactic annihilation. Should be no sweat. Probably. 

Uncharted Legacy of Thieves Collection: was $49 now $29 @ Amazon

Uncharted Legacy of Thieves Collection: was $49 now $29 @ Amazon
Uncharted Legacy of Thieves Collection packages together Uncharted 4: A Thief's End and Uncharted: The Lost Legacy. Both games have been remastered for the PS5 sporting improved framerate, boosted texture quality and faster loading times. Both games were already a must-play on PS4, but with these next-gen improvements, this collection is utterly essential. 

Life is Strange True Colors: was $59 now $24 @ Amazon

Life is Strange True Colors: was $59 now $24 @ Amazon
Life is Strange True Colors casts you as Alex Chang as she moves to Haven Spring to live with her brother. Soon after, her brother dies in a tragic accident and shocking secrets threaten the stability of this usual sleepy town. Your decisions shape the story, and building trust with those around you could be key to unlocking answers. 

Assassin's Creed Valhalla: was $59 now $39 @ Amazon

Assassin's Creed Valhalla: was $59 now $39 @ Amazon
Assassin's Creed Valhalla is one of the most content-rich titles on Xbox Series X. This deal brings the epic historical action game down to just $19. Offering more than hundred hours of play, you might not even be finished with this one by the end of the semester. 

Far Cry 6: was $59 now $31 @ Amazon

Far Cry 6: was $59 now $31 @ Amazon
The latest entry in Ubisoft's long-running Far Cry series just dropped to its lowest ever price at Amazon. Far Cry 6 takes you to the fictional island of Yara where you must work with a group of modern-day guerrillas to overthrow Anton Castillo, a ruthless dictator. Far Cry 6 is one of the biggest games on Xbox Series X, and offers dozens of hours of chaotic fun either solo or with a friend via online co-op. 

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe: was $59 now $49 @ Amazon

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe: was $59 now $49 @ Amazon
The best selling game in Switch history is now $10 off in this sale. Now is the perfect time to score Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, as the game will be receiving new courses via the Course Booster Pack throughout the year.

Super Mario Maker 2: was $59 now $41 @ Amazon

Super Mario Maker 2: was $59 now $41 @ Amazon
The only thing better than playing a Mario game, is building your own. Super Mario Maker 2 challenges you to create your own 2D Mario courses and then lets you share your creations with the world. If you're not much of a designer, you can instead download and play other users' levels. 

Backpacks

Mancro Laptop Backpack: was $29 now $23 @ Amazon

Mancro Laptop Backpack: was $29 now $23 @ Amazon
The Mancro Laptop Backpack has over 10 compartments, one of which can house a 15-inch laptop. It also has a combination zipper lock, which ensures no one will open your laptop bag and steal its contents when you're not looking. Click the on-page coupon to drop its price to $23. 

Matein Laptop Backpack: was $41 now $29 @ Amazon

Matein Laptop Backpack: was $41 now $29 @ Amazon
Don't let its cheap price fool you. The Matein Laptop Backpack is one of the coolest laptop bags on the market. The 27-liter bag features a padded laptop sleeve that fits up to a 17-inch laptop. It also has a USB-charging port, which connects to a battery backup in the bag that lets you charge your devices without having to open your backpack. (Battery not included). 

Backpack sale: up to 55% off @ Macy's

Backpack sale: up to 55% off @ Macy's
Macy's is taking up to 55% off select backpacks during its early back to school sales kick-off. The sale includes backpacks from Nine West, DKNY, Kipling, Michael by Michael Kors, Vera Bradley, and more. 

Dorm room essentials

Fire TV + Echo Dot: from $99 @ Amazon

Fire TV + Echo Dot: from $99 @ Amazon
Amazon is offering one of our favorite TV deals of all time. Currently, when you buy an eligible Fire TV, you'll get a free 3rd-gen Echo Dot. Just manually add the 3rd-gen Echo Dot to your cart and use coupon "FTVDOT22" to drop the Echo Dot's price to $0 at checkout. Fire TVs start as cheap as $99. Best Buy offers the sale deal.

Keurig K-Mini Plus Coffee Maker: was $109 now $89 @ Amazon

Keurig K-Mini Plus Coffee Maker: was $109 now $89 @ Amazon
This single-serve coffee maker by Keurig is $20 off just in time for Prime Day. It can hold up to nine pods at once and produces freshly brewed coffee in minutes. Its removable drip tray enables it to accommodate larger cups and travel mugs. It's a great appliance if space in your kitchen is at a premium. 

USB Desk Fan: was $20 now $13 @ Amazon

USB Desk Fan: was $20 now $13 @ Amazon
If you find yourself overheating at your desk then this 4-inch USB desk fan could be the answer. It spins at three distinct speeds and can be powered by plugging into an outlet or a laptop. It's not going to cool down your entire room, but it'll give a blast of refreshing air for those long all-nighters.

HP 28" 4K Monitor: was $379 now $244 @ Amazon

HP 28" 4K Monitor: was $379 now $244 @ Amazon
This monitor deal gets you a 28-inch 4K monitor with a 3-sided micro-edge design. This monitor also supports HDR content and features USB-C connectivity. It also offers HDMI and VGA ports. 

Bluetooth Speakers

JBL GO2: was $48 now $28 @ Amazon

JBL GO2: was $48 now $28 @ Amazon
The JBL GO2 is one of the best cheap Bluetooth speakers you'll find. The speaker is IPX7 waterproof and can last for up to 5 hours on a single charge. A must-have tech accessory for any dorm room, it's one of the best back to school sales you'll find.  

OontZ Angle 3: was $59 now $39 @ Amazon

OontZ Angle 3: was $59 now $39 @ Amazon
For its price, you won't find a better performing Bluetooth speaker than the OontZ Angle 3. It produces bright, clear vocals and crisp treble, and it even delivers a bit of bass. It's IPX5 weather resistance means it can take a splash of rain (just make sure not to dunk it in a pool). 

UE Wonderboom 2: was $99 now $83 @ Best Buy

UE Wonderboom 2: was $99 now $83 @ Best Buy
The UE Wonderboom 2 portable Bluetooth speaker is IP67 waterproof and delivers up to 13 hours of rich 360 degree sound. In our UE Wonderboom 2 review, we said the Editor's Choice speaker delivers good bass and vocals in a highly portable package. 

Tribit StormBox Micro Bluetooth speaker: was $59 now $42 @ Amazon

Tribit StormBox Micro Bluetooth speaker: was $59 now $42 @ Amazon
The Tribit StormBox Micro proves that big things can come in small packages. It boasts solid sound, weighty bass, IP67 waterproofing and a tear-resistant silicone strap for attaching the device to your backpack. It's the ideal portable speaker for taking just about anywhere on campus and can even power your dorm room parties. It's currently $42 in this epic deal that is running at Amazon. 

Bose SoundLink Revolve: was $228 now $179 @ Amazon

Bose SoundLink Revolve: was $228 now $179 @ Amazon
The original SoundLink Revolve is well-suited for any room, even without the carry handle of the $279 SoundLink Revolve Plus. It also offers IPX4-rated water resistance, as well as 360-degree sound, and can connect to another SoundLink speaker to create a stereo pair.

Freebies

Grubhub Plus: 1 year free @ Amazon

Grubhub Plus: 1 year free @ Amazon
Perfect for rainy nights, movie nights, or just about any night of the week — Prime members can now get a year of Grubhub Plus for free. Normally priced at $9.99/month, that's a total savings of $119. Grubhub Plus gives you access to unlimited $0 deliveries on orders of $12 or more. You also get member perks like free food and exclusive discounts at select restaurants. 

When do back to school sales begin

Back to school sales generally begin in late June or early July. They last through early September. Unlike Labor Day or Memorial Day, which last a few days, the back to school season lasts for multiple weeks. However, keep in mind that some of the best sales tend to occur in August. By the time September begins, most of the highly sought after deals have expired or simply gone out of stock.

Where are the best back to school sales

Laptops, Bluetooth speakers, Chromebooks, and tablets are among the best back to school sales you'll find during the back to school season. Some of our favorite laptops, such as the MacBook Air M1, are already seeing price cuts of up to $200. Meanwhile, stores like Walmart and Wayfair are slashing the price of various dorm room essentials like coffee makers, cheap bedding sets, and more. 

Are back to school sales better than Labor Day?

The first Labor Day sales of 2022 will likely appear toward the end of August. However, whereas back to school sales focus on laptops and school gear, Labor Day deals have a broader approach with discounts on major appliances, clearance sales on summer items, and deals on 4K TVs. Yes, you'll see some crossover, but if you're shopping for school, your best bet is to make your purchases now instead of waiting. 

What should I buy for back to school supplies

Some of the most popular back to school supplies include arts and crafts materials (for younger students) and laptops or headphones for high school or college bound students. College bound students may also be interested in dorm room supplies like storage containers, bedding sets, office chairs, and desk lamps. Most students will also require a laptop bag or backpack. Make sure to check out our best backpacks for college guide for the best sales and picks.  

Louis Ramirez

As deals editor at Tom’s Guide, Louis is constantly looking for ways to avoid paying full price for the latest gadgets. With over 10 years of deals-hunting experience, Louis price checks against multiple retailers and searches high and low for the best deals to bring readers. A born-and-bred New Yorker, Louis is also an avid swimmer and marathoner. His work has appeared on Gizmodo, CNET, and Time Out New York.