Best back to school sales 2024 — 65 items I'd shop now
Early bird savings on laptops, bedding, appliances and more
Back to school sales will be over before we know it. So if there are still some outstanding items on your checklist, now is the time to make your purchases and take advantage of those summer discounts.
The best part is, I've made it super simple for you. I've rounded up some of the best back to school sales on classroom supplies, dorm essentials and study must-haves. Currently, one of my favorite back to school sales comes courtesy of Best Buy. Right now you can get MacBooks from $799 and small dorm appliances from $39. Meanwhile, Dell has laptops and monitors on sale from $79.
So wrap up your back to school shopping and enjoy the final days of summer without a worry. Check out the best back to school sales I recommend shopping now.
Best back to school sales 2024
Quick Links
- Amazon: 50% off GAP apparel, school supplies from $1
- AT&T: up to $1,000 off iPhone 15 Pro Max, Galaxy Z Flip 6
- Best Buy: MacBooks from $799, smart TVs from $64
- Dell: laptops and monitors from $79
- HP: up to 50% off laptops, headsets, and monitors
- Nectar: Editor's Choice mattress from $499
- Target: school supplies under $1
- Walmart: college tech for under $500
- Wayfair: dorm room essentials from $15
Editor's Choice sales
Target back to school sale: deals from under $1
Target recently launched their back to school deals, which is known to be their biggest sale of the season. They have deals on school supplies starting under $1. They also have tons of clothing, shoes, lunchbox and backpack deals starting at just $5. The kiddos will be dressed and packed for school in no-time.
Amazon back to school sale: deals from $5 @ Amazon
Amazon has one of the biggest back to school sales we've seen. The sale offers deals for children and college students alike. Save on school supplies (pens/markers/backpacks), apparel (Gap/Adidas/Disney), and more.
College savings sale: deals from $10 @ Walmart
From dorm room bedding and decor to late night study must-haves , Walmart has everything you need to get prepare you for college. In the market for a stylish-yet-practical study lamp? Look no further than this Mainstays LED Desk Lamp (pictured) that you can snag for just $7.
Back to school sale: deals from $23 @ Best Buy
Back to school season is here and the Best Buy Back to School Sale is offering numerous deals for students of all ages. After discount, laptops start from $169, headphones from $23, and small dorm room friendly appliances from $39. Plus, MacBooks are on sale from $799.
Dell laptops/monitors: deals from $79 @ Dell
Dell is offering a huge back to school sale with discounts on 1080p monitors, laptops, desktops, headphones, and more. After discount, monitors start from $79, whereas laptops start at just $279 for a basic machine.
Rocketbook Pro: was $55 now $44 @ Rocketbook
The Rocketbook Pro is a reusable notebook with a vegan leather cover and an embedded NFC hotspot. When you're done taking notes, just wipe the pages with a damp cloth and they'll be good as new. It can be re-used an infinite number of times and it also has a companion app, which you can use to save and scan your notes or to export them to Dropbox or Google Drive.
AT&T smartphone sale: up to $1,000 off @ AT&T
AT&T's back to school sale is officially live. New and existing users can knock up to $1,000 off flagship smartphones after trade-in. For example, you can get the iPhone 15 Pro Max for up to $1,000 off with an eligible trade-in and qualifying unlimited plan.
Backpack sale: deals from $4 @ Walmart
Walmart has dozens of children's backpacks on sale from $6 as part of its back to school sales event. The sale includes brands like Marvel, Reebok, Eastsport, Disney, Kipling, Nintendo, and more.
Value Picks
MacBook Air (M2/256GB): was $999 now $799 @ Best Buy
The MacBook Air M2 boasts a load of great features. It includes a larger 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display (2560 x 1664), Apple's M2 CPU w/ 8-core GPU, 8GB of RAM, 256GB SSD, 1080p FaceTime camera, four-speaker system with Spatial Audio, and MagSafe charging. In our MacBook Air M2 review, we called the Editor's Choice laptop an unbeatable combo of performance, design, and battery life.
Gateway 14" Ultra Slim Laptop: was $479 now $378 @ Walmart
The Gateway Ultra Slim Notebook is a budget machine packed with mainstream specs. For $379, you get a 14-inch 1080p IPS display, Core i5-1135G7 CPU, 16GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD. Budget laptops usually skimp on RAM or CPU power, but this machine is more than suitable for everything from homework to casual gaming.
Nectar: was $699 now $349 @ Nectar
In our Nectar mattress review, we said the Editor's Choice bed is a tremendous value for the money and one of the best mattresses for college students. We found it's very comfortable (thanks to its five layers of memory foam) and it offers excellent pressure relief around your shoulders, hips, and back. Bonus points for offering an impressive 365-night trial and a forever guarantee. As part of its current sale — you can get the twin mattress for $349 (was $699) or the queen for $649 (was $1,099).
Apple Mac mini M2: was $599 now $499 @ B&H Photo
The new Mac mini M2 is faster and $100 cheaper than its M1-based predecessor. In our Mac mini M2 review, we said it's one of the best computers on the market with a speedy M2 CPU that runs circles around Apple's M1 CPU. The base model supports up to two external displays at up to the same resolutions (6K via Thunderbolt 4 or 4K via HDMI). It features an M2 CPU, 8GB of RAM, and 256GB SSD.
Siena Mattress: was $529 now $199 @ Siena
The Siena Mattress is a very affordable memory foam mattress from the same company behind Nectar and DreamCloud. Its medium-firmness feel should suit most sleepers and we like that it has five layers of memory foam and polyfoam, with a breathable cover to help you sleep cooler at night. In our Siena Memory Foam mattress review, we said it offers excellent temperature regulation, superb edge support, and low motion transfer for a very low price. As part of its back to school sale — Siena is offering the twin for $199 (was $529), whereas the queen is $399 (was $769). You also get a 180-night trial with free shipping and returns.
Laptops
HP laptop sale: up to 52% off deals from $149 @ HP
50% off laptops: Back to school sales are starting at HP. The PC manufacturer is taking up to 50% off select machines. After discount, laptops start as low as $149. One of our favorite deals is the HP Laptop 15 which is currently on sale for $459 (was $899).
Dell laptop sale: from $279 @ Dell
As part of its back to school sales, Dell has multiple laptops on sale from $279. The sale includes XPS, Inspiron, and more. For instance, you can get the Inspiron 15 for $499 (was $699). This everyday laptop can be used for everything from Netflix streaming to work. It features a 15.6-inch 1080p 120Hz LCD, Core i5-1135G7 CPU, 16GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD. We like this config because you get a 1080p LCD and everything you could need at a reasonable price.
Lenovo IdeaPad 1 15.6 in laptop: was $649 now $386 @ Walmart
Perfect for a student, this affordable laptop super-efficient, with a 12th Generation Intel processor. It is lightweight and slim making it ideal to carry around in a backpack. Plus, it has up to 10 hours of battery life and charges up quickly.
MacBooks
MacBook Air 13 (M3): was $1,099 now $899 @ Best Buy
The new MacBook Air is powered by Apple's latest M3 silicon. The laptop can support up to two external displays (when the laptop lid is closed) and Apple also claims its 60% faster than the M1-based MacBook Air. It boasts up to 18 hours of battery life. In our MacBook Air 13-inch M3 review, we called the Editor's Choice laptop a small wonder. It packs a 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display (2560 x 1664), Apple's M3 CPU w/ 8-core GPU, 8GB of RAM, and 256GB SSD.
MacBook Pro 14 (M3/512GB): was $1,599 now $1,399 @ Amazon
Lowest price! The M3-based MacBook Pro is one of the best laptops you can buy. In our MacBook Pro 14-inch M3 review, we said it delivers blistering performance with a brighter display than its predecessor, robust graphics, and super-long battery life (17 hours with 25 minutes). If you upgrade to the M3 Pro or M3 Pro Max chipset, you get to snag this laptop in a stunning new Space Black finish with 18GB or 36GB of RAM, respectively. The base model features a 14.2-inch 3024 x 1964 Retina display, Apple M3 CPU, 8GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD.
MacBook Pro 14" (M2 Pro/512GB): was $1,999 now $1,599 @ B&H Photo
The 2023 MacBook Pro 14-inch packs Apple's new M2 Pro silicon, which outperforms most of today's flagship laptops. (It can also be configured with the M2 Pro Max). In our MacBook Pro 14-inch 2023 review, we called it the world's best laptop. It offers an incredible battery life of over 14 hours. The base model includes a 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display (3024 x 1964), M2 Pro 10-core CPU (w/ 16-core GPU), 16GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD.
MacBook Pro 16" (M2 Pro/512GB): was $2,499 now $1,879 @ Amazon
Apple's new premier laptop is the most powerful Mac laptop we've tested. In our MacBook Pro 16-inch 2023 review, we said its 16-inch mini-LED display is one of the best laptop displays we've tested. If you own an older Intel-powered MacBook Pro and need a new mobile powerhouse, this is the Mac you want. It features a 16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display (3456 x 2234), M2 Pro 12-core CPU (w/ 19-core GPU), 16GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD.
Price check: $2,249 @ B&H Photo | $2,299 @ Best Buy
Dorm room essentials
Minetom USB Fairy String Lights: was $17 now $13 @ Amazon
Would it truly be a dorm room without some string lights? Give your room a little cozy atmosphere with these twinkle lights that come with a remote and power adapter. You'll easily be able to turn the lights on and off and there are even different lighting effects to choose from. They are easy to hang and you can also shape them how you'd like thanks to the wire's flexible design.
Kasa Smart Plug 4-Pack: was $29 now $23 @ Amazon
These Kasa smart plugs can be controlled via voice or app to manage things like lamps, string lights, and coffee makers. (They're compatible with Alexa and Google Home Assistant). You can even leave one in the bathroom for hair styling tools, so you can always double check that the curling iron is off, even after you've left your dorm room.
Bissell Featherweight Stick: was $33 now $29 @ Amazon
Powerful, convenient and easy to store, this Bissell Featherweight Stick vacuum is the optimal choice for a dorm room. Not only is it extremely affordable, it also has great suction on hard floors, carpets and area rugs — so if you're unsure what kind of floors to expect in your dorm, this vacuum will get the job done regardless. The versatile cleaning machine also converts into a handheld vacuum and includes a crevice tool to reach difficult spaces.
Magic Bullet Blender: was $49 now $39 @ Amazon
The Magic Bullet Blender is great for athletes or anyone who's trying to eat healthier. It can be used to make a wide variety of health shakes and smoothies; just add your protein powder of choice and you're set! It can also be used to make pasta sauces and guac.
Roku Streaming Stick 4K: was $49 now $34 @ Amazon
The latest version of Roku's popular streaming stick is our pick for the best streaming device you can buy, and that was before it dropped to a new low price. The Roku 4K offers access to all the streaming services you need via a clean interface. Plus, Dolby Vision ensures solid picture quality to a strong standard, and the new long-range Wi-Fi receiver helps you ditch buffering issues.
JBL Clip 4: was $79 now $46 @ Walmart
The JBL Clip 4 sounds great for its size, and its ultra-portable design can be easily clipped to your clothing or bag while you explore. It's IP67-rated, so you can listen to tunes poolside or in the shower. It comes in a variety of fun colors, so you can pick one that best suits your style. Plus, it lasts for around 10 hours of playback.
Keurig K-Iced Essentials: was $79 now $59 @ Walmart
This coffee maker is certainly worth the investment, especially if you’re a fan of iced coffee. It can brew hot or iced coffee in three cup sizes, including 10, 8 and 6-oz. It includes a 36-oz water reservoir as well as an iced tumbler. Its a great alternative to spending money on campus coffee.
HP DeskJet 2855e Printer: was $84 now $59 @ Amazon
The small, lightweight HP DeskJet 2855e offers an attractive set of basic features for an attractive price. The multifunction printer copies, scans and faxes, and you can seamlessly link it the HP app on your smartphone. With a 60-sheet input tray, its compact design makes it the perfect addition to a college dorm.
Canon PIXMA TR4722 All-in-One Wireless InkJet Printer: was $99 now $59 @ Walmart
You can't go wrong with this all-in-one printer that is compact and versatile. It will take care of all your at-home printing needs with its wireless connectivity to laptops, tablets and smartphones. The tray holds up to 100 sheets of paper and it produces both sharp black text and colorful prints.
Keurig K-Mini coffee maker: was $99 now $59 @ Amazon
The Keurig K-Mini accepts K-Cup branded coffee pods to brew 6- or 12-ounce cups of coffee, tea, or hot cocoa quickly and efficiently. It even works with My K-Cup universal reusable pods, letting you enjoy your favorite blend without adding to the landfill. In our Keurig K-Mini review, we said it's super compact and excels at its one function — brewing a pod of coffee.
Insignia Compact Microwave: was $79 now $54 @ Best Buy
As a college student, you’re likely shopping on a tight budget, which is why you should grab this bargain while you can. This Insignia countertop microwave features six preprogrammed settings including popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverage and dinner plate. Plus, the power is adjustable up to 1000 watts.
Mulberry Silk Bundle: was $88 now $63 @ Brooklinen
Whether you want to shield your eyes from the morning sun or your roommate's desk lamp that has been shining bright all night, this luxurious silk sleep mask bundle is the way to go. The second part of the bundle is a silk pillowcase that protects skin and hair from friction damage while you sleep. Both items are naturally cool to the touch while also possessing a breathable yet insulating fabric, which makes it great for all seasons. (I personally own the mask, and I can't sleep without it — that's how good it is).
Tangkula Full Length Over The Door Mirror: was $129 now $64 @ Target
Save space and check your outfit of the day with this full-length mirror that you can hang on the wall or over your door. Mounting screws and hanging hooks are included in the package.
Tempur-Adjustable Support Pillow: 2-pack for $99 @ Tempur-Pedic
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 sales I'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 over a year and find they offer the perfect balance between firm and soft).
Black & Decker Cordless Stick Vacuum: was $279 now $134 @ Target
At 52% off, this cordless stick vacuum is a steal! Keep your home spotless with the machine that lifts up hair, fur and debris from just about any type of floor, including carpets. The vacuum also includes a crevice tool and quickly transforms into a handheld vacuum to clean stairs and furniture. Additionally, you can lie it flat to vacuum hard-to-reach places like under beds and couches.
Rolling 5-Drawer Cart: was $169 now $135 @ Pottery Barn Teen
This versatile storage solution is great for clothes, accessories, toiletries and much more. The rolling cart helps you keep all your belongings close by, moveable and organized with its 5 separate fabric front drawers. It comes in two additional colors, oat and onyx.
Roku TV 32" Select Series TV: was $159 now $143 @ Best Buy
Roku's new line of TVs are on sale. This model maxes out at 720p resolution, but it's small and cheap enough to fit into any dorm room or tight living space. Made by Roku, this TV also features Roku's platform for all your streaming needs. Sold exclusively at Best Buy, it's on sale for $143.
Insignia Retro 3.1 cu. ft. Mini Fridge with Top Freezer: was $219 now $179 @ Best Buy
If you're looking for a mini fridge for your dorm room and care about aesthetics, then this is the deal to get. This Retro fridge from Insignia comes with 3.1 cu. ft. capacity including a mini top freezer and two shelves. It's available in cream, green and red, to fit in with your room decor.
Amazon 2-Series 40" Fire TV: was $249 now $179 @ Amazon
If you don't need 4K resolution, this 2-Series is a budget smart TV with 1080p resolution and support for HDR 10, HLG, and Dolby Digital Audio. The included Fire TV Alexa Voice Remote lets you find your favorite content, get sports scores, control smart home devices, and more with the sound of your voice.
Headphones
JBL Tune 660NC: was $99 now $69 @ Best Buy
While these don't beat the JBL Live 660NC headphones, these are still a great deal. You still get excellent battery life and surprisingly good noise cancellation, all for just $69. Normally, it's tough to find even decent noise-canceling headphones at that price.
Apple AirPods (2nd Gen): was $129 now $79 @ Best Buy
The AirPods 2 are still very capable wireless earbuds. There's no ANC, but you get solid audio performance and up to 5 hours of playback time. The standard lightning charging case gives up to 24 hours of additional charge, and a 15-minute quick charge nets 3 hours of listening time. Hey Siri voice control handles your every command, and adds up to a great deal for you.
Beats Studio Buds: was $149 now $99 @ Amazon
The Beats Studio Buds offer active noise cancelling, sweat resistance and up to eight hours listening time, or 24 hours when combined with the pocket-sized charging case. In our Beats Studio Buds review, we labeled them a surprisingly affordable option for ANC. Add in impressive sound, and they're a top contender in its price range. They hit $89 last holiday season, which makes this their second-lowest price.
Beats Solo 4: was $199 now $129 @ Best Buy
In our Beats Solo 4 review, we noted the incredible value at full price, so with a $70 discount, these on-ear, wireless headphones are a fantastic deal. We loved the long 50-hour battery life, USB-C connectivity upgrade, conveniently collapsible design, and of course, true-to-life sound quality. If you're after ANC though, these aren't the headphones for you.
Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro was $229 now $139 @ Amazon
The Galaxy Buds 2 Pro offer high quality audio and compelling 3D sound with precise head tracking. The updated design provides improved comfort, while battery life runs to 5 hours before needing a recharge. Meanwhile, the charging case gives 29 hours worth of playback time before needing a top up. In our Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro review we said the Editor's Choice buds deliver great sound and superb ANC, and are an essential audio companion for Galaxy mobile owners.
Beats Studio3 Noise Cancelling Headphones: was $349 now $169 @ Amazon
The Beats Studio 3 offer a comfy fit, 20 hours of battery life and near-seamless pairing with iOS devices. Their active noise canceling also does a decent job of blocking outside noise, making them ideal for your next study session. Our Beats Studio 3 review said these are a "solid choice," especially for Apple users.