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15 Back-To-School Sales Retirees Should Take Advantage of (For Themselves)

It’s not just students that benefit from back-to-school buys.

Senior couple shopping on computer
Updated Sept. 24, 2024
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The back-to-school frenzy has begun, with everyone from the big box stores to tech retail giants marking down the items they know are on everyone’s shopping list.

From brand-new computers to shiny, unmarked notebooks to boxes of pens, deals can be found on anything useful in a middle school classroom or a college dorm room.

But these deals aren’t just for students. Retirees can also save money shopping for everything from laptops to running shoes. Here are a few back-to-school sales you can take advantage of.

Editor's note: Prices are subject to change and may vary by location.

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Computers at Best Buy

wolterke/Adobe best buy trademark logo on blue wall during day time

Best Buy is where you can upgrade the computer you’ve been using for years — or finally get one after decades of using your work computer.

Take your pick of desktop, laptop, and tablet computers at unbeatable prices. You’ll find up to $500 off on computers, including deals on Apple.

HP Computers

monticellllo/Adobe HP computer

If you need a computer for anything from tax planning to dreaming of your retirement vacations, hurry over to HP, where you can find computers for up to 69% off.

Technology at Walmart

JHVEPhoto/Adobe Pearland Texas walmart from outside

Whether you need a tablet for browsing the web or a webcam for chatting long distance with the grandkids, Walmart offers major deals on all back-to-school-related technology.

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Activewear at Kohl’s

Sundry Photography - stock.adobe.com Kohl's store exterior

Kohl’s included activewear for the entire family in their 25% off back-to-school sale, including all men’s and women’s clothing.

Beef up your wardrobe for hikes in your favorite park or morning walks in your neighborhood.

Furniture at Wayfair

gguy/Adobe wayfair logo on smartphone

Wayfair’s dorm décor sale goes far beyond your normal college fare. You’ll find everything from mattresses to velvet hangers listed in their dorm room section at up to 60% off.

If you need to spruce up your space, check it out — you might find some items you need in your own home.

Furniture and storage solutions at Amazon

Sai/Adobe amazon application on smartphone

If you need storage solutions, like nightstands or clothing storage, then check out Amazon’s dorm room deals.

While some of the furniture may feel like something that belongs in a college freshman’s room, many of the storage items are practical for all ages.

Furniture at Walmart

jetcityimage/Adobe walmart store from outside during day

It’s not just students who need a desk lamp or desk chair — anyone who has a place they need to do work can benefit from these practical pieces. So why not pick them up on sale?

Technology at Microsoft

Angelov/Adobe microsoft windows 10 logo

A tablet can be easier than a phone when you’re browsing social media in the evening or writing emails to family and friends. Pick one up for sale during Microsoft’s back-to-school deals.

The PC manufacturer is offering up to 50% off Surface tablets, gaming consoles, accessories, and refurbished devices.

Laptops on eBay

burdun/Adobe An eBay logo on a smartphone

Did you know eBay sells refurbished items? They do, and you can buy a new laptop during their back-to-school sale.

You can find laptops for up to 70% off, including Apple and Lenovo, and some tablets for $100 off.

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Colorful stationery and accessories at Ban.do

helen shorey/EyeEm/Adobe spiral notebooks with pencil on table

Use code SWEET at checkout to take 30% off colorful and fun paper goods, notebooks, and home accessories during Ban.do’s back-to-school warehouse sale.

This is the budget-friendly way to give your kitchen desk a playful makeover.

Sneakers at Nike

aperturesound/Adobe Nike shoe box

Get a new pair of shoes for your walks around the local track. Nike has deals on activewear for back-to-school, including up to 40% off on sneakers.

Bags at Calpak

rh2010/Adobe senior couple hiking with trekking sticks

If your retirement includes hiking, traveling, and traversing the country and world, head to the Calpak back-to-school sale.

You’ll find luggage, backpacks, and more for up to 50% off.

Totes and laptop sleeves at L.L.Bean

JHVEPhoto/Adobe l.l. bean logo

Whether you love L.L. Bean’s classic totes for heading to the pool or the lake, or you need a laptop sleeve for travel, now’s the time to buy these timeless items.

They’re 20% off during their back-to-school sale.

Linens at The Company Store

Courtesy of Costco Pink bath towel set

The Company Store may have had students in mind with their back-to-school sale, but anyone can use a fresh set of sheets or towels. Get 15% off during their sale with code COMFY24.

Kitchen and dining items at Macy’s

dennizn/Adobe macy's famous store

Macy’s back-to-school deals include both kitchen and dining items, which are perfectly timed ahead of holiday entertaining.

Stock up now and save up to 60% on bedding, kitchen and dining items, mattresses, and rugs before the grandkids come to visit.

Bottom line

ArtSys/Adobe senior woman using card for shopping

When looking to save money as a retiree, you have to think outside the box. Some sales are geared towards certain groups, but that doesn’t mean they’re irrelevant to your lifestyle and needs.

You may be decades removed from the classroom, but when you need a computer or a backpack, why not get it on sale?

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