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.
Earn cash back on everyday purchases with this rare account
Want to earn cash back on your everyday purchases without using a credit card? With the Discover®️ Cashback Debit Checking account (member FDIC), you can earn 1% cash back on up to $3,000 in debit card purchases each month!1
With no credit check to apply and no monthly fees to worry about, you can earn nearly passive income on purchases you’re making anyway — up to an extra $360 a year!
This rare checking account has other great perks too, like access to your paycheck up to 2 days early with Early Pay, no minimum deposit or monthly balance requirements, over 60K fee-free ATMs, and the ability to add cash to your account at Walmart stores nationwide.
Don’t leave money on the table — it only takes minutes to apply and it won’t impact your credit score.
Apply for a Discover Cashback Checking account today
Computers at Best Buy
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
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
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.
Get a protection plan on all your appliances
Did you know if your air conditioner stops working, your homeowner’s insurance won’t cover it? Same with plumbing, electrical issues, appliances, and more.
Whether or not you’re a new homeowner, a home warranty from Choice Home Warranty could pick up the slack where insurance falls short and protect you against surprise expenses. If a covered system in your home breaks, you can call their hotline 24/7 to get it repaired.
For a limited time, you can get your first month free with a Single Payment home warranty plan.
Activewear at Kohl’s
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
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.
Trending Stories
Furniture and storage solutions at Amazon
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
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
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
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.
Stop overpaying when you shop online
Shopping online has its perks. It's super convenient, but it can be time consuming to find the best deals. Instead of hunting for coupon codes (that don't always work!) and opening tons of browser tabs comparing prices, you can try Capital One Shopping.
Capital One Shopping makes saving money effortless. Just add the browser extension and when you check out, it'll scour the internet for coupon codes to help you save cash. And before you check out at 25+ major retailers, Capital One Shopping will notify you with a friendly pop-up if the item you're buying is available cheaper somewhere else.
Capital One Shopping is free to use and won't show you ads. Add it today and stop overpaying!2
Colorful stationery and accessories at Ban.do
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
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
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
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
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
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
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?
Lucrative, Flat-Rate Cash Rewards
FinanceBuzz writers and editors score cards based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.
Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
Current Offer
$200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
Benefits
- Low spend threshold for its welcome offer — $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months
- Cell phone protection benefit (subject to a $25 deductible)
- Can redeem rewards at an ATM for literal cash
Drawbacks
- Foreign transaction fee of 3%
- No bonus categories
- Select “Apply Now” to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
- Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months.
- Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases.
- 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers. 19.74%, 24.74%, or 29.74% Variable APR thereafter; balance transfers made within 120 days qualify for the intro rate and fee of 3% then a BT fee of up to 5%, min: $5.
- $0 annual fee.
- No categories to track or remember and cash rewards don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
- Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations and more with your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature® Concierge.
- Up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.
Subscribe Today
Want extra-cash moves to come right to you?
Stop browsing endlessly. Get proven ways to earn pocket money, help cover rent, and crush your debt — sent to your inbox daily.