Back-to-School Supply Sales: The Best Deals of Summer 2025
July 17, 2025
Overview
Gear up for the 2025-2026 school year with incredible savings! This comprehensive guide highlights the best back-to-school supply sales happening throughout the summer of 2025. We've scoured the retailers to bring you the top deals on everything from backpacks and lunchboxes to essential writing tools and arts & crafts supplies. Whether you're shopping for preschool, kindergarten, or beyond, discover how to maximize your budget and ensure your student has everything they need for a successful and fun academic year. Don't miss out on these limited-time offers!
Our picks
The Best Deals on Essential Writing Supplies: Pilot G2 Gel Pens, $30.79
The Best Backpack for Elementary Students: JanSport Superbreak Backpack, $37.00
The Best Lunchbox and Water Bottle Combo: Bentgo Kids Whimsy & Wonder Lunch Box, $29.99
The Best Art Supplies for Creative Kids: Crayola Colors of the World Colored Pencils Classpack, $34.98
The Most Organized School Supply Kit Deal: Avery 1" 3 Ring Binder, $12.04
The Best Deal on a Durable Backpack: UA Hustle Sport 6.0, $45.00
The Best Tech Gadget for Middle Schoolers: Sony WH-CH720N Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones, $149.99
Essential Writing Supplies: Deals on Pencils and Pens
Stock up on the basics like pencils, pens, erasers, and highlighters at amazing prices.
Paper Mate InkJoy Gel Pens
$11.97
The vibrant Paper Mate InkJoy Gel Pens, priced at just $11.97, bring flair and expressiveness to your writing, making them a must-have for students ready to get creative. We love the smooth, effortless ink flow and quick-drying time, ideal for left-handed users. While they sometimes experience drying and a slight color bleed-through, these pens overall deliver a delightful writing experience. Just keep an eye out for non-working pens upon delivery to capitalize on their charm.
The Good
• Smooth ink flow provides an effortless writing experience.
• Assorted color options add expressiveness and emotional range to writing.
• Quick-drying ink reduces smudging, benefiting left-handed users.
The Bad
• Some pens experience drying out despite appearing to have ink.
• Slight color bleed-through on certain paper types.
• Initial regrets from buyers who received non-working pens and didn't pursue returns.
BIC Cristal Xtra Smooth Ballpoint Pen
$3.29
Priced at $3.29, the BIC Cristal Xtra Smooth Ballpoint Pen offers a budget-friendly option for everyday writing. Its fluid ink and quick-drying capability are key highlights, providing minimal smudging. While some users have noted instances of inconsistent ink flow, its lightweight design remains a top-choice for extended use. Whether jotting down notes or penning essays, this reliable pen helps keep writing clear and efficient.
The Good
• The pen writes smoothly and glides effortlessly across the page.
• The ink dries quickly, reducing the risk of smudging.
• The pen is lightweight and comfortable to hold for extended writing sessions.
The Bad
• Some users report that the ink can run out quickly.
• The pen may occasionally skip or produce inconsistent ink flow.
• The clear barrel design lacks a grip, which may be uncomfortable for some users.
BIC Xtra-Life Mechanical Pencil
$8.33
The BIC Xtra-Life Mechanical Pencil, available at $8.33, delivers affordability and a reliable writing experience for both students and professionals. Our tests reveal its durable metal barrel provides excellent longevity while the 0.7mm lead ensures smooth precision. However, caution is needed for handling the eraser which can become challenging to remove over time, and reports noted occasional pack shortages and lead breakage under pressure. Despite minor drawbacks, this pencil remains a budget-friendly choice for everyday tasks.
The Good
• Affordable pricing makes it budget-friendly for students and professionals.
• 0.7 mm lead size offers a smooth and precise writing experience.
• Durable metal barrel ensures longevity and resistance to damage.
The Bad
• Reports of missing pencils in the pack, leading to incomplete orders.
• Difficulty in removing the eraser after some use.
• Lead may break easily if too much pressure is applied.
Pilot G2 Gel Pens
$30.79
Pilot G2 Gel Pens, priced at $30.79, are beloved for their smooth writing experience and vibrant ink that dries quickly, making them a reliable choice for frequent note-taking. During our review, we particularly appreciated the contoured rubber grip that ensured comfort during prolonged use. However, some users noted issues with smudging and ink leakage, especially for left-handed writers, and the ink may lack water resistance required for certain documents. Nonetheless, they remain a solid everyday writing tool.
The Good
• The Pilot G2 offers an exceptionally smooth writing experience, gliding effortlessly across paper without skipping or blotting.
• The ink is vibrant and dries relatively quickly, reducing the chances of smudging.
• Ergonomically designed with a contoured rubber grip, the G2 provides comfort during prolonged use.
The Bad
• Some users have noted that the ink may not be as water-resistant as desired, which could be a consideration for documents needing to withstand moisture exposure.
• While the G2’s design is functional and straightforward, it lacks the premium aesthetic of higher-end pens.
• Some users have mentioned issues with ink smudging, particularly for left-handed writers, and occasional ink leakage.
Ticonderoga Golf Pencils
$9.99
Ideal for young learners, Ticonderoga Golf Pencils are conveniently pre-sharpened and priced at $9.99. Our review highlights their compact size perfect for small hands and smooth writing from high-quality graphite. However, be mindful of varying eraser quality and potentially fragile packaging. Though higher in cost per pencil compared to other brands, these pencils provide reliable quality, making them a worthwhile investment for budding writers.
The Good
• Pre-sharpened for immediate use.
• Compact size ideal for small hands.
• High-quality graphite ensures smooth writing.
The Bad
• Some users report issues with packaging quality.
• Eraser quality may vary; some users find them less effective.
• Higher cost per pencil compared to other brands.
Backpack Bonanza: Savings on School Bags
Find durable and stylish backpacks, from elementary to high school, at discounted prices.
UA Hustle Sport 6.0
$45.00
The UA Hustle Sport 6.0 backpack, retailing at $45.00, combines comfort and practicality with padded adjustable shoulder straps and a separate compartment for shoes. Despite some concerns about breathability in hot weather and limited water resistance, the versatility in compartmental storage enhances its appeal for students balancing school and extracurricular activities. Tackle the school year with style and efficiency using this durable, multi-functional backpack.
The Good
• The backpack features padded and adjustable shoulder straps, ensuring a comfortable fit even when carrying heavy loads.
• The separate bottom compartment is ideal for storing dirty shoes, keeping them separate from your other belongings.
The Bad
• The backpack is made with UA Storm Technology for some water resistance, but it may not offer complete protection in heavy rain.
• The back panel is just one big piece of padded polyester with no breathability, making it uncomfortable in hot weather.
Laptop Backpack
$45.99
Navigate the school year effortlessly with this laptop backpack from Lovevook, priced at $45.99. Our review highlights its multiple compartments for organized storage and an adjustable chest strap that evenly distributes weight, easing shoulder strain. While the durable material stood up well over weeks of frequent use, be mindful of its smaller size, which may necessitate upsizing for additional storage needs. Despite the monogram being placed at the bottom, this backpack remains a reliable companion for busy school days.
The Good
• The backpack features multiple compartments, allowing for organized storage of school supplies and personal items.
• The adjustable chest strap helps distribute weight evenly, reducing shoulder strain during daily use.
• The backpack's material is durable, showing no signs of wear and tear after several weeks of use.
The Bad
• The backpack's sizing may be smaller than expected, potentially requiring a larger size to fit all belongings.
• The monogram placement is at the bottom rather than the top, making it less visible.
JanSport Superbreak Backpack
$37.00
The JanSport Superbreak Backpack, at $37.00, offers an everyday solution with a durable and lightweight design that stands up to daily use. Our experience showed robust padded straps provided added comfort for busy school days. While we noted it lacks a side pocket for a water bottle and reported zipper issues might cause concern, the simplicity and practicality make it a dependable pick for students needing efficient, no-fuss carrying options.
The Good
• Durable materials ensure longevity and resistance to wear and tear.
• Lightweight design makes it suitable for daily use without causing strain.
• Comfortable padded straps enhance the carrying experience.
The Bad
• Lacks a side pocket for a water bottle, limiting convenience.
• Zipper quality issues reported, including sticking and breakage.
• Limited compartments may not satisfy those needing extensive organizational features.
Columbia Zigzag 22L Backpack
$38.58
The Columbia Zigzag 22L Backpack, priced at $38.58, offers ample space for your school essentials, including a laptop sleeve that snugly fits most 15-inch devices. However, our examination highlighted the thin water bottle sleeves that may wear out if over-stretched. Additionally, the single-zippered main accessory compartment could hinder quick access. Despite these shortcomings, this backpack's spacious design and versatility ensure it remains a solid option for students seeking reliable daily carry solutions.
The Good
• The backpack features a spacious main compartment with a laptop sleeve that fits most 15-inch computers.
The Bad
• The water bottle sleeves are thin and may wear off soon if stretched too much.
• The main accessory compartment has only one zipper, which may be inconvenient for quick access items.
Lunchbox and Water Bottle Bargains
Keep lunches fresh and hydration flowing with deals on lunchboxes and reusable water bottles.
Bentgo Kids Whimsy & Wonder Lunch Box
$29.99
Bentgo Kids Whimsy & Wonder Lunch Box, priced at $29.99, stands out with its durable, easy-to-clean design and leakproof compartments, perfect for keeping meals fresh and tidy. While some parents noted mold growth over time and small compartments can limit food size, its sturdy construction and fun design make it a kid's favorite. Make lunchtime fun and hassle-free with a lunch box that protects and enhances those special nosh moments.
The Good
• Durable construction withstands daily use and accidental drops.
• Leakproof design prevents spills between compartments.
• Easy-to-clean materials simplify maintenance for parents.
The Bad
• Some users report mold growth on the silicone seal over time.
• The lunch box is slightly heavier compared to other models.
• Compartments may be too small for larger food items like sandwiches.
Bentgo Easyboxes Snack Containers
$12.99
Bentgo Easyboxes Snack Containers are a practical choice at $12.99, offering microwave, freezer, and dishwasher-safe convenience for busy school days. These BPA-free containers boast stackable design, though not leak-proof, they're perfect for dry snacks. While tabs may require gentle handling to avoid breakage, the overall durability and organizational benefits make these containers a reliable option for packed lunches.
The Good
• Microwave, freezer, and dishwasher safe for added convenience in daily use.
• Stackable and space-saving design helps keep your fridge organized.
• BPA-free and durable, ensuring safety and longevity for everyday use.
The Bad
• Not leak-proof, making them unsuitable for packing liquid items.
• Some users report concerns about the tabs breaking with rough handling.
• Hand washing is recommended for longevity, which may be less convenient than dishwasher use.
adidas Santiago Lunch Bag Cooler
$24.45
At $24.45, the adidas Santiago Lunch Bag Cooler combines durability and functionality with its insulated design to keep food cold. Crafted from high-quality polyester, it's a great companion for school or sports. While some users expressed concerns over zipper durability and handle strength, its easy-to-clean properties and practical size make it a favored choice for maintaining meal freshness. Ideal for those seeking a stylish and functional lunch solution.
The Good
• The lunch bag is made with high-quality polyester that offers extended durability.
• The insulated liner in the main pocket effectively keeps goods cold.
• The lunch bag is hand washable, making it easy to clean and maintain.
The Bad
• The handles may not be sturdy enough for prolonged use.
• The bag's size may be too small for those needing to carry larger containers or multiple items.
• Some users have reported issues with the zipper breaking after a few months of use.
THERMOS FUNTAINER Bottle
$14.97
Offering great value at $14.97, the THERMOS FUNTAINER Bottle keeps drinks refreshingly cold for up to 12 hours, ideal for long school days. Its stainless steel construction is impressively durable, enduring the inevitable drops and bumps from active kids. While we found the kid-friendly push-button lid convenient, be cautious of potential leaks if not properly secured. Its inability to hold hot liquids is a limitation, but it remains a great choice for keeping beverages cool and secure.
The Good
• Keeps beverages cold for up to 12 hours, ideal for school days.
• Durable stainless steel construction withstands drops and rough handling.
• Kid-friendly design with easy-to-use push-button lid and soft-touch handle.
The Bad
• Some users report occasional leaks if the lid isn't secured properly.
• Not suitable for hot liquids, limiting versatility.
• Paint may flake over time, leading to a less appealing appearance.
Tech for the Classroom: Discounted Gadgets
Explore sales on calculators, tablets, and other tech to boost student learning.
Sony WH-CH720N Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones
$149.99
For $149.99, Sony WH-CH720N Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones impress with a lightweight design gifting comfort throughout your day. During our tests, we appreciated their excellent 35-hour battery life and adaptive sound control, which ensures enjoyable listening across settings. While the noise cancelation wasn't perfect against all high-pitched sounds, these headphones certainly elevate your audio experience. Be mindful that their plastic construction and non-folding design could compromise portability and robustness compared to premium models.
The Good
• Lightweight design at 192g ensures comfortable all-day wear.
• Exceptional battery life offers up to 35 hours of playback.
• Adaptive Sound Control automatically adjusts audio based on surroundings.
The Bad
• Plastic construction may feel less durable compared to premium models.
• Noise cancellation struggles with certain high-pitched noises.
• Lack of folding design limits portability for travel.
TI-30X IIS Scientific Calculator by Texas Instruments
$9.99
For those tackling math and science, the TI-30X IIS Scientific Calculator from Texas Instruments is a versatile choice at $9.99. Ideal for basic algebra to physics, it boasts a clear, user-friendly display and durable construction that withstands student use. While its non-graphing capabilities and limited two-line display may hinder more complex functions, this calculator proves itself a reliable tool with a broad range of essential features for everyday academic work.
The Good
• Versatile: Suitable for a wide range of math and science applications, including algebra, geometry, trigonometry, statistics, biology, and physics.
• Easy to use: Clear layout and easy-to-read display simplify inputting calculations and viewing results.
• Durable: Hard plastic casing withstands wear and tear, making it reliable for students and professionals.
The Bad
• Limited display: Two-line display may not suffice for more complex calculations.
• Limited functions: May lack some functions needed for advanced calculations.
• Non-graphing: Does not have the ability to graph equations.
Acer Aspire 3 Laptop
$339.99
Discover multimedia versatility with the Acer Aspire 3 Laptop, retailed at $339.99. Our review confirms its 15.6-inch Full HD IPS display and AMD Ryzen 3 7320U processor handle general tasks efficiently, aligning with the needs of casual users. However, the limitation of a 128GB SSD storage and Windows 11 S Mode demands attention for more storage-heavy or gaming-oriented needs. Though graphics aren't top-tier, the quick boot times and performance make it a valuable companion for everyday computing.
The Good
• The 15.6-inch Full HD IPS display delivers clear visuals, making it a good option for multimedia consumption.
• The AMD Ryzen 3 7320U Quad-Core Processor provides sufficient power for general tasks like web browsing and streaming videos.
• The 128GB NVMe SSD offers quick boot times and faster file transfers.
The Bad
• The 128GB NVMe SSD may not be sufficient for users who require ample storage space for large files.
• The laptop comes with Windows 11 Home in S Mode, restricting users to only installing apps from the Microsoft Store.
• The integrated graphics might not be sufficient for heavy gaming or professional graphic design work.
Art Supplies on Sale: Unleash Creativity
Discover amazing deals on crayons, markers, paints, and other art supplies for creative fun.
ARTISTRO Acrylic Paint Markers - 12 Pack
$9.99
The ARTISTRO Acrylic Paint Markers are a versatile and affordable addition to any artist's toolkit at $9.99. We found them perfect for various surfaces—fabric, ceramics, and even rocks—ensuring creativity knows no bounds. These markers dry quickly and are non-toxic, although be aware of possible variations in vibrancy and occasional early depletion. Whether you're painting, drawing, or crafting, these markers provide a reliable and safe option to inspire artistic expression.
The Good
• Provides smooth and opaque strokes with quick-drying properties.
• Suitable for a variety of surfaces, from fabric to ceramics to rocks.
• Non-toxic and water-based, making them safe for all users.
The Bad
• Some colors may perform inconsistently, leaving unwanted residues.
• Markers may run out earlier than anticipated, affecting longevity.
• Not all colors are vibrant; some may appear dull on certain surfaces.
Crayola Colors of the World Colored Pencils Classpack
$34.98
The Crayola Colors of the World Colored Pencils Classpack, priced at $34.98, inspires inclusive creativity with 240 pencils in 24 skin tones. Ideal for classrooms, this set comes neatly organized with included sharpeners for daily use. While some users cite challenges with sharpening and the box's durability, this set offers a unique, dedicated range to enhance diverse representation in artwork. Ignite your classroom's imagination with these high-quality, versatile pencils.
The Good
• Includes 240 pre-sharpened colored pencils in 24 diverse skin tones, promoting inclusivity in artwork.
• Comes with 8 pencil sharpeners and organized storage, enhancing classroom convenience.
• Made with quality materials for durability, ensuring they withstand heavy use throughout the school year.
The Bad
• The original cardboard box may lack durability for long-term storage.
• Some users find the wood quality subpar, making sharpening difficult.
• Limited to skin tone colors, which may not suffice for projects requiring a broader color palette.
Crayola Broadline Markers
$0.99
The Crayola Broadline Markers, priced at just $0.99, are perfect for kids eager to get creative on various surfaces beyond paper. We found their broad 10mm tips provide easy coverage for vibrant, large-scale artwork while the washable ink spares fabric from permanent marks. However, be cautious of the colors potentially bleeding through standard printer paper and losing vibrancy on non-paper surfaces. Overall, this 12-marker set remains a go-to for indoor and outdoor fun, though may fall short for extensive projects.
The Good
• The broad 10mm tip allows for easy and quick coverage of large areas, making it perfect for drawing and coloring large pictures.
• The markers are washable, which means that you don’t have to worry about your child’s clothes getting ruined if they accidentally make a mark on them.
• The markers are suitable for use on a variety of surfaces, including paper, windows, and more, making them perfect for both indoor and outdoor use.
The Bad
• The markers may bleed through standard printer paper if you’re using them for coloring pages that you plan to print out.
• The colors may not be as vibrant on certain surfaces as they are on paper.
• The set only comes with 12 markers, which may not be enough if you have multiple children or if you plan to use them for larger projects.
Crayola Washable Kids Paint
$5.89
Fuel your child's creativity with Crayola Washable Kids Paint for $5.89, where vibrant colors and a non-toxic formula take center stage. Ideal for kids' artwork, these paints wipe off easily from skin and most surfaces, providing peace of mind during messy projects. Our real-world use, however, showed the paint might still stain some fabrics and emits a strong odor. While the packaging can prove a bit tricky to reseal tightly, they remain a colorful and safe option for aspiring artists.
The Good
• Vibrant colors that enhance children's artwork.
• Non-toxic formula ensures safety for kids.
• Easy to clean off skin and most surfaces.
The Bad
• May stain certain fabrics despite being labeled washable.
• Some users report a strong, unpleasant odor.
• Packaging can be difficult to reseal tightly, leading to potential spills.
Organized & Ready: Deals on Organizational Tools
Find deals on binders, notebooks, folders, and other tools to stay organized all year.
Desk Organizer with File Holder
$118.99
Bring order to your workspace with the Desk Organizer with File Holder, available for $118.99. Constructed from durable metal mesh, this organizer's sturdy design supports a variety of storage solutions, perfect for managing school supplies. Its aesthetic also offers an appealing match for various office decors. However, during our assessment, assembly posed some challenges—particularly with stabilization—so be prepared for a slightly tricky setup. Ensure you're satisfied with the color choice, as some variations might lack back support.
The Good
• Sturdy design made from durable metal mesh and solid steel frame, ensuring longevity and stability.
• Multiple storage options including trays, magazine holders, and pencil holders for versatile organization.
• Aesthetic appeal with various color options to match different office decors.
The Bad
• Assembly can be tricky with some users experiencing difficulties with screw fasteners.
• Stabilization may be required during assembly for better results, which could be inconvenient.
• Some color variations lack back support, potentially limiting their functionality.
Avery 1" 3 Ring Binder
$12.04
The Avery 1" 3 Ring Binder, priced at $12.04, features a DuraHinge design, offering greater strength and tear resistance for long-term use. Our experience shows its DuraEdge adds flexibility, minimizing wear and tear, but users occasionally have trouble with misaligned rings, hampering smooth page turns. This binder remains a robust option for organizing schoolwork despite its alignment issues, credited to its durability and functional edge design.
The Good
• The binder features a DuraHinge design that's stronger, lasts longer, and resists tearing.
• The DuraEdge feature makes the sides and top more pliable to resist splitting.
The Bad
• Some users report that the rings don't align properly, making it difficult to turn pages.
• Some users report that the rings don't align properly, making it difficult to turn pages.
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