You may not be done with lazy pool days, but the nation's biggest retailer, Walmart, is already geared up for back-to-school shopping. Like rival Target, note that some of Walmarts cheapest back-to-school deals are available only in store (think composition notebooks or packs of loose-leaf paper for under a dollar). Still, there are plenty of great buys online, and these are some of the best.
(Note: Prices and availability are subject to change.)
Price: $88 | Buy it
A graphing calculator is a pricey must for high-school math. This 10-function model includes split-screen abilities and can connect to computers with an included USB cable.
Price: $4 | Buy it
The convenience of a mechanical pencil is undeniable. These inexpensive Bics have break-resistant, smudge-resistant 0.9 mm lead that's always a click away.
Price: $15 | Buy it
A laptop pocket and fleece-lined tech pocket make this Eastport ideal for older kids who need to bring their gadgets on the go. Other features include padded straps, two side water-bottle pockets, and plenty of exterior zippered compartments for small items.
Price: $1.88 | Buy it
Whether youre buying for siblings or a whole classroom, these colorful scissors clock in at under a dollar a piece. They have a kid-friendly blunt tip and are suitable for left- and right-handers.
Price: $9 | Buy it
These brightly patterned folders bring a little fresh style to the basics. They have holes for easy inclusion in binders, too.
Price: $10 | Buy it
Preschoolers who get an in-school siesta will appreciate this comfy nap mat, and parents will appreciate the low price. The vinyl cover is easy to clean and disinfect with soap and water.
Price: $12 | Buy it
Perfect for girls who want to mix and match, or for chilly days when they want a little extra coverage, this "skeggings" set provides options. The leggings are made from a comfy stretch jersey, while the skirt is made of durable twill.
Price: $3 | Buy it
The gold standard among erasers, these latex-free Pink Pearls help kids clean up their work without leaving smudges or tearing paper. They're big enough for small hands to grip easily.
Price: $1 | Buy it
Parents of younger kids will want to load up on these teacher-approved Crayola colored pencils — they're pre-sharpened, preschool-ready, and under a buck.
Price: $9 | Buy it
Chip in to help keep your kid's classroom as germ-free as possible, but soften the blow to your budget by skipping the name brands. These Great Value wipes kill just as many viruses and bacteria, and they come in two fresh scents.
Price: $8.50 | Buy it
Pack a healthy lunch with the convenience of containers sized perfectly for tall lunch bags. They snap right on to an included reusable ice pack, and they're microwave-, freezer-, and dishwasher-safe.
Price: $5 | Buy it
Made with a soft, stretchy knit, these bike shorts are a comfy layering piece for girls who love skirts but want to be able to run, jump, and cartwheel their way across the playground like normal.
Price: $31 | Buy it
High-schoolers who don't want to lug their backpacks around everywhere may love this mega-binder, which includes accessory pouches, an expanding file folder, and a shoulder strap for easy carrying.
Price: $22 | Buy it
There are cheaper pens out there, but these colorful gel pens will please Lego fans with their buildable surface where kids can attach favorite mini figures or other small creations.
Price: $4 | Buy it
Inexpensive and lightweight, this shatter-resistant compass and protractor are easy on the budget but plenty functional for geometry class.
Price: $10 | Buy it
This playful pencil case that can be unzipped into a long ribbon has ample room for small school supplies such as pens, erasers, and scissors. It also comes in black.
Price: $12 | Buy it
Hoodies are a must for chilly mornings at the bus stop or on the playground, but they're also the first thing to crowd the lost and found. For under $15, this one will keep a kid warm, but with a price tag that makes it a little less devastating if it goes missing.
Price: $6 | Buy it
Make homework time go a little more smoothly with a reliable pencil sharpener. This one is battery-operated and does the job quickly with double-bladed technology.
Price: $9 | Buy it
Whether polos are a uniform must or just a simple wardrobe staple, these pique cotton shirts are tagless for comfort, and it's hard to beat the two-for-under-$10 price point.
Price: $1.50 | Buy it
No need to overpay for the basics. This clear, scratch-resistant ruler lets kids see what they’re measuring more easily, and the raised beveled edges help combat smearing.
Price: $10 | Buy it
If clear backpacks are a school requirement, this two-compartment Eastport fits the bill. It includes padded shoulder straps, a top carrying handle, and a lash tab to secure extra gear.
Price: $4 | Buy it
Budding artists can let their creativity loose with this 18-color set of Crayola paints. A paintbrush is included, and stains wash away easily from skin and clothing.
Price: $9.50 | Buy it
This dual-handle lunch satchel is roomy enough for the hungriest kid and even comes with two matching sweat-free ice packs. There's a convenient exterior pocket, too.
Price: $9 | Buy it
Back to school means it's time to stock the sock drawer, and parents know you can never have too many pairs. These inexpensive Hanes socks have comfort seaming and reinforced heels and toes to last through the roughest, toughest recess.
Price: $24 | Buy it
Though pricier than basic notebooks, these souped-up college-ruled versions are built for the long haul. They include a snag-resistant cover for the spiral binding, two movable plastic dividers with expandable pockets, and a pen loop.