Don’t Miss July Deals on These 6 Back-to-School Necessities

Many people wait until August to do back-to-school shopping. However, that can mean missing out on deals happening earlier in the summer.

From May 2025 through April 2026, June and July had the highest deal volume of the year, according to Savings.com. The money-saving site analyzed 10.6 million deals across 22 retail categories and found July was the top month for several types of items families may need before school starts, including clothing, personal care items and snacks.

Check Out: Here's How the Average Kid's Allowance Is Keeping Up With Inflation

For You: 9 Unusual Ways To Make Extra Money (That Actually Work)

If you still have school shopping to do, here are the items to consider for deals before August arrives.

Explore Next: The Best Walmart Buys for the Money Right Now

1. Apparel

School clothes are one of the better categories to check in July. According to the Savings.com, apparel and accessories peaked in July for deal availability.

If you don’t want to buy every outfit your kids need now, focus on the basic pieces such as socks, shoes, underwear and uniform shirts and shorts. Purchasing these items ahead of time when prices are lower can make school clothes shopping in August less expensive.

2. Electronics

If your child needs headphones, a calculator, a tablet or a laptop for school, deals may still be had before August, even though Savings.com found that June offered peak savings for electronics, computers and software.

However, don’t blindly buy tech just because it’s marked down. Instead, research reviews and compare prices across several different stores to make sure you’re actually getting a bargain.

3. Sports-Related Clothing and Gear

Another peak deal category for July, according to Savings.com, was sports and recreation. So don’t wait until right before fall sports practices start to buy these items.

However, do take time to check what still fits or is usable, such as athletic shoes, sports clothes, sports equipment and gear bags.

4. Health and Medicine Items

Health and medicine also peaks in July for deal availability, according to Savings.com. For families, that can include items you may need once school routines start again.

Items such as allergy medicine, pain relievers, bandages and hand sanitizer may be on sale.  You may also need extra items for a dorm room or backpack, depending on your child’s age and school rules.

5. Food and Beverages

Savings.com found that food and beverage deals were plentiful in July.

If your child takes a lunch to school, buying some of those items before August can make the first few weeks less expensive. Look for deals on things like snacks, pantry items or lunchbox staples before August 1.

6. Beauty and Personal Care Items

Savings.com’s analysis also found that July was a good month for beauty and personal care deals, which is an advantage for parents of older kids who use a variety of products.

Hair products, deodorant, face wash, razors and skincare basics can add up, especially if you are buying everything at once before school starts.

This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.