The best back-to-school deals of 2026: Laptops, backpacks, dorm essentials and more

Back-to-school shopping doesn't have to break the bank. Save on classroom and dorm room essentials, from HP laptops for up to $200 off to dry-erase markers for just $9. Whether a student in your life is starting elementary school or heading off to college, these deals can help you check every item off your list.

Best overall backpack: JanSport backpack
Best laptop: HP Stream 14-inch laptop
Best dorm purchase: Mesh shower caddy
Best lunch box: Bentgo lunch box and bag set
Best value buy under $25: Crayola markers, crayons and colored pencils set
Best teacher pick: Expo dry-erase markers

Young students need basic school supplies like backpacks, water bottles and creative materials. 

Bentgo kids water bottle: $16.99 (15% off)
Transparent rulers, 7-count: $5.99 (25% off)
Ticonderoga #2 yellow pencils, 30-count: $4.99 (23% off)
Crayola colored pencils, 36-count: $6.49 (19% off)

Original price: $40

A highly reliable JanSport backpack can last for years with proper care. This Amazon No. 1 best seller has a spacious inner pocket and multiple smaller pockets throughout, offering plenty of room for a lunch box and elementary school essentials. At the moment, select patterns are up to 29% off.

Original price: $32.99

This Bentgo lunchbox has separate compartments for sandwiches, chips and other snacks — a smart choice for kids who don't want different foods to touch. The leakproof design prevents backpack spills, and the tray safely heats up in the microwave for warm meals.

READ MORE: Back-to-school Apple deals: Up to 78% off MacBooks, iPads, AirPods and more

As students move into middle and high school, they'll need more storage space and upgraded tech for class.

LockerMate locker storage kit: $14.89 (22% off)
Large pencil case: $7.99 (20% off)
Owala FreeSip stainless steel water bottle: $23.99 (20% off)
TI-30XIIS scientific calculator: $13.99 (18% off)

Original price: $45

An adidas backpack offers extra room for larger books and extracurricular needs. Plus, Its black color also makes it a versatile choice for elementary and middle school students. A spacious main compartment offers three zippered pockets, and the large mesh side pockets accommodate water bottles.

Original price: $499

If you need a budget-friendly laptop for your child, the HP Stream is currently $200 off, bringing the price to just below $300. This lightweight option comes with a glare-free display and Windows 11. Enjoy one year of Microsoft 365 Office Suite so your student can get up and running right out of the box.

READ MORE: Amazon college essentials under $25 every student needs

Stock up on dorm essentials for a more comfortable college experience. 

Power strip tower: $26.26 (25% off)
Keurig K-Mini: $76 (24% off)
Laundry backpack: $13.59 (20% off)
Twin XL 3-inch memory foam mattress topper: $99.99 (17% off)

Original price: $15.99

A shower caddy is a college staple that lets students carry all their toiletries to the bathroom. Smaller pockets surround the large inner compartment, giving them plenty of room for shampoo, brushes, hair dryers and makeup.

Original price: $169.99

This mini fridge saves your college student from making back-and-forth trips between the dorm and dining hall. It holds plenty of drinks and leftovers, and Amazon sold more than 5,000 of these mini fridges in the past month alone.

READ MORE: Skip the bargain bin: 13 school supplies that pay for themselves

Original price: $849

The Apple iPad Air costs more than other tablets, but its speedy M4 chip helps streamline schoolwork and everyday tasks. The ultra-compact design and $60 discount also make it a smart pick for any college student. 

Stock up on these bulk supplies and organization must-haves. 

Paper Mate felt tip pens, 12-count: $9.79 (51% off)
Colorful classroom organization bins: $23.99 (40% off)
Post-it super sticky notes, 15 pads: $9.26 (38% off)
Color-coded filing folders, 10-pack: $18.69 (15% off)

Original price: $13.99

For just $5, you can grab a set of 12 dry-erase markers in an assortment of colors — enough to last all year. The vibrant colors stand out from across the classroom, and the 64% discount is the biggest on our list.

For more deals, visit www.foxnews.com/deals

Original price: $9.97

If you teach kids, you know that Elmer's glue sticks are a commodity. They go on purple and dry clear, so your students always know where they're gluing. Grab a 30-pack for the school year for just $4. 

If you're an Amazon Prime member, you can get these items sent to your door ASAP. You can join or start a 30-day free trial to start your shopping today.