7 School Buys at TJ Maxx That Save Parents More Than You'd Think
Target and Walmart are the go-to for notebooks, folders and glue sticks. But for name-brand gear where department store markups run highest, TJ Maxx is where the real savings are.
Parents who know what to look for can save 30% to 60% off typical retail on the items kids actually want. (And if you're a parent, you know that's not always the easiest ask!) Here's what we're putting in our carts.
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Name-Brand Backpacks
Price: $9.99
If you want a Jansport, Under Armour, High Sierra or Adidas backpack, you need to be willing to pay $45 to $70 at department and sporting goods stores. At TJ Maxx, the Premium Insta Bag Foldable Backpack is a major deal at $9.99; it’s lightweight, tear-resistant and folds down flat for gym class or field trips.
Lunch Storage
Price: $7
Insulated lunch totes and bento-style containers can get costly, but this two-pack Bento Snackbox Set by Caly at $7 is worth grabbing — two boxes with four compartments, microwave and dishwasher safe.
Name-Brand Athletic Socks and Underwear
Price: Varies
TJ Maxx has a ton of name-brand athletic packs of socks and underwear at $8 to $10. We all know two things are true — kids go through socks fast, and buying brand names at discount beats buying cheaper socks at full price.
Kids' Sneakers
Price: Varies
Children outgrow shoes before they wear them out, which makes paying full price hard to justify. New Balance, Puma, Adidas and Under Armour kids' sneakers run $25 to $35 at TJ Maxx versus $50 to $70-plus at shoe stores. It's worth checking the kids' section in person since inventory changes constantly.
Tech and Desk Accessories
Price: Varies
Phone cases, braided charging cables, wireless earbuds and laptop sleeves are stocked near the registers and in the home section at discounts of 50% or more compared to electronics retailers. These tend to move fast at back-to-school time, so it's worth grabbing what fits the list early.
Athletic Wear
Price: Varies
Hoodies, leggings, shorts and athletic tops from name brands turn up regularly at TJ Maxx for well below what sporting goods stores charge. For kids in PE or after-school sports, this is one of the better categories to stock up on before the school year starts.
Dorm and Desk Organization
Price: Varies
For older students heading to college, TJ Maxx carries desk organizers, storage bins, small décor and bedding at prices that beat most specialty home retailers. It's not as predictable as the clothing section, but always worth a walkthrough.
Editor’s note: Prices and availability are subject to change.
This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.
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