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What should you buy before fall? Our August shopping guide can help
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What should you buy before fall? Our August shopping guide can help
From school supplies and beauty essentials to football gear and Labor Day savings, our day-by-day guide helps you shop smarter for fall 2026
Kasey CaminitiUSA TODAY
July 27, 2026Updated Aug. 7, 2026, 12:02 p.m. ET
- USA TODAY Shopping is launching “The Fall Reset,” a month-long event in August to highlight deals before fall.
- The event is structured weekly, focusing on back-to-school, home prep, yard work, and football season essentials.
- Each day in August will feature specific shopping recommendations and tips to help consumers save money.
Fall has a way of sneaking up fast. Before Labor Day deals arrive and before fall routines take over, retailers are discounting everything from school supplies and dorm essentials to TVs, mattresses, home upgrades, fall fashion and football season gear
That’s why we’re launching The Fall Reset—a month-long August shopping event designed to answer one question:
What should you buy before fall?
The Fall Reset is meant to help you get ahead of them before prices rise, inventories shrink and Labor Day shopping competition heats up. Throughout August, the USA TODAY Shopping team will highlight the products, deals and seasonal essentials actually worth your money
Bookmark this page. We’ll update it all month with new shopping guides, editor-tested recommendations, seasonal buying advice and our favorite deals
Day 7 — Today, August 7: Home organization and small-space storage
The final day of Week 1 helps families and students build smoother routines with storage, labels, calendars, organizers and more. Here are a few of our favorite organization deals, storage hacks and more:
Periea Set of 8 Assorted Collapsible Storage Boxes
These collapsible, steel-framed storage boxes from Periea magically banish clutter with clear viewing windows, dual openings and versatile sizes for effortless organization. Save at QVC
Under Bed Storage with Wheels 2-Pack
Reclaim your floor space and conquer clutter with these rolling, heavy-duty under-bed storage containers designed to maximize every inch of your home. Save at Amazon
The Container Store Artisan Rattan Cane Desktop Organizer
Declutter your desktop space with this organizer that’s perfect for housing folders, notebooks and other school or work essentials. Save at The Container Store
- Less than $35:Amazon Basics 3-Tier Rolling Utility Cart
- 44% off at Wayfair:Clie 16-Pair Shoe Storage Cabinet
- Less than $20:Amazon Basics Slim Velvet Non-Slip Space-Saving Hangers (30-Pack)
- Porte + Hall: 15% off sitewide through Sunday, August 16 with promo code SEVEN.
Smart shopping tip: Measure closets, shelves and under-bed spaces before buying bins or organizers
Shop USA TODAY Shopping’s Fall Reset by week
- Week 1:Back-to-school and dorm shopping
- Week 2:Fall vibes, home, family and seasonal prep
- Week 3:Home improvement, outdoor and yard prep
- Week 4:Football, entertainment and Labor Day shopping
Week 1: Back-to-school and dorm shopping
The first week is all about helping students, parents and families get organized before the school year ramps up. Expect practical picks for classrooms, dorm rooms, tech setups, personal care routines, lunches and space-saving organization
Day 1 — Saturday, August 1: Back-to-school supplies and classroom essentials
Start with the basics: notebooks, pencils, backpacks, planners, folders, calculators, labels and classroom restocks. This is the day to check school supply lists, compare multipacks and look for bundles that can cover more than one child or grade level. Here are some of the best back-to-school deals we’re shopping today:
Paper Mate Profile Retractable Ballpoint Pens, 1.4 mm Bold Point, 8 Count
Features a distinct 1.4 mm bold point and an extra-smooth writing system, specifically designed to produce clear, powerful and attention-grabbing lines. Less than $5 at Walmart
Mead Spiral Notebook, 6-Pack
Stock up for back-to-school season with this convenient 6-pack of Mead Spiral Notebooks. Perfect for students, teachers and busy professionals, these classic notebooks offer plenty of space for notes, assignments, lists and more. Shop now at Amazon
BIC Xtra-Smooth Mechanical Pencils
These reliable 0.7 mm mechanical pencils never need sharpening, erase cleanly without smudging and come in a school-ready 40-pack perfect for stocking any backpack or classroom supply drawer. Save at Amazon
- Target: Back-to-school, dorm, fall home, Halloween and early holiday shopping
- Walmart: School supplies, student tech, groceries, home and Labor Day deals
- Amazon: Last-minute essentials, dorm upgrades, tech, home and football season finds
Smart shopping tip: Buy frequently used supplies in bulk when the price makes sense, but avoid overbuying specialty items until you know what each teacher requires
Day 2 — Sunday, August 2: Dorm room essentials and college move-in needs
Dorm shopping is about making a small space functional, comfortable and easy to maintain. Look for bedding, storage, desk accessories, shower caddies, compact appliances and décor that can work hard without taking up too much room. Here are a few dorm essentials every college student should consider:
Hisense 32-Inch S5 DécoTV Series Hi-QLED FHD Smart Fire TV
The Hisense S5 DécoTV is designed for smaller spaces without feeling like a compromise. This 32-inch model pairs a sleek, design-forward look with vibrant Hi-QLED color, Full HD resolution and built-in Fire TV for easy access to your favorite streaming services.Its compact footprint makes it a natural fit for bedrooms, dorms and home offices, while Alexa integration keeps entertainment just a voice command away. Save 28% at Amazon
Dorm Compressed Foam Bean Bag Chair
Every dorm needs a little personal flare, and this bean bag chair is the perfect accent to help you get out of your standard desk chair. Shop now at Target
Scidweet 2-Pack Under Bed Shoe Storage Organizer
Take all your favorite shoes with you and don’t lose space. Each bin holds 32 pairs of shoes. Buy now at Walmart
Sony WH-1000XM5 Premium Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones
The Sony WH-1000XM5 is a student essential because it delivers world-class active noise cancellation, creating an instant deep-focus zone anywhere on campus. Amazon
- Wayfair: Dorm furniture, small-space living, home refreshes and Labor Day furniture deals
- The Container Store, Dormify and Ikea: Organization, dorm setup and lunch-prep products
Smart shopping tip: Prioritize items that solve multiple problems, like storage ottomans, over-the-door organizers and rolling carts
Day 3 — Monday, August 3: Student technology and productivity tools
Student tech can make a big difference once classes, assignments and schedules pick up. This focus includes laptops, tablets, earbuds, headphones, chargers, portable batteries and productivity tools. Here are some of the most popular tech essentials for students right now:
Rocketbook Core Reusable Smart Notebook
The Rocketbook Core is a student essential because it combines the memory retention of traditional pen-and-paper writing with endless cloud reusability. Shop at Amazon
Apple 2026 MacBook Air 15-inch Laptop
The 2026 15-inch Apple MacBook Air is a student essential because it hits the sweet spot between spacious screen real estate and lightweight portability, all powered by the high-performance M5 chip. Shop at Amazon
Logitech MX Master 3S Bluetooth Wireless Mouse
This wireless mouse provides ergonomic hand support and hyper-fast navigation for long library sessions. Shop at Amazon
- Best Buy: Student tech, productivity gear, TVs, soundbars and entertainment upgrades
Smart shopping tip: Before buying a new device, check school requirements, software needs and student discount eligibility
Day 4 — Tuesday, August 4: Back-to-school clothing, shoes and accessories
This is the wardrobe reset: sneakers, denim, basics, school uniforms, jackets, socks, backpacks and accessories that can carry students from late summer into early fall. These are the top-trending shoes for fall 2026:
Jordan Retro 3
Why we like it: A true icon that blends basketball heritage with timeless streetwear appeal.The Jordan Retro 3 is the kind of sneaker that never looks out of place. Whether paired with relaxed denim, cargos, or athletic wear, it brings instant credibility to any outfit. For anyone looking to invest in a sneaker with genuine staying power, this is one of the strongest options available. Buy Jordan Retro 3 sneakers
adidas Originals Samba
Why we like it: The sneaker that continues to dominate style conversations.The adidas Samba has evolved from an indoor soccer shoe into a global fashion staple. Its streamlined shape, gum sole, and versatile design make it one of the easiest sneakers to wear with virtually anything in your closet. Buy adidas Sambas sneakers
Skechers Aero Spark
The Aero Spark is your everyday workhorse—balanced cushioning, smooth transitions and dependable comfort for runners building consistency or logging daily miles.Why they stand out: A true do-it-all trainer that blends comfort, durability and versatility for everything from short runs to steady mileage. Add to cart: Skechers Aero Spark
Wendy Stretch Sox – Dusty pink
Normally retailing for $64.99, these Wendy shoes are just $29.99 during the HeyDude back-to-school sale. Save 54% at HeyDude
- Nike, Skechers, Kids Foot Locker, Reebok: Back-to-school shoe shopping doesn’t have to be hard
- Kohl’s, Gap and Nordstrom: Back-to-school clothing, shoes, bedding and fall fashion
Smart shopping tip: Build around durable basics first, then add trend-forward pieces only where your budget allows
Day 5 — Wednesday, August 5: Personal care, beauty and wellness basics
As routines shift, personal care deserves a reset too. Think skincare, hair care, hygiene essentials, sleep products, wellness basics, self-care items and beauty staples. Here are today’s top finds:
Hushd Avera Anti-Snoring Mouthguard
Snoring doesn’t just affect the person making the noise. If it’s disrupting your sleep, your partner’s rest or your overall wellness routine, try the FDA-cleared Hushd Avera solution you can fit at home in minutes. Get 15% Off Hushd Avera
Live Tinted Hueglow Liquid Highlighter Drops
This lightweight liquid highlighter melts into skin for a naturally radiant finish. It uses squalane, sunflower seed oil and hyaluronic acid help deliver lasting hydration without stickiness. Get now at Ulta
Alaya Naturals Multi Collagen Peptides
Alaya Naturals Multi Collagen Peptides delivers five collagen types plus MSM, glucosamine and chondroitin in one easy-to-mix formula.With premium-sourced ingredients and NSF Contents Certification on the unflavored variety, it’s a standout choice for women looking to support healthy aging from the inside out. Shop Alaya Naturals Multi Collagen
BIOptimizers new Electrolyte Breakthrough
Try the new Electrolyte Breakthrough from BIOptimizers with this 12-count variety pack. Shop now at BIOptimizers
TheraFace Mask Glo-LED Skincare Mask
TheraFace Mask Glo is a dermatologist-approved, FDA-cleared LED mask that combines red, red/infrared and blue light with a relaxing scalp massage for glowing, healthier-looking skin. Save 21% at Nordstrom
- Ulta Beauty and Sephora: Beauty basics, self-care and early holiday beauty sets
Smart shopping tip: Stock up on the products you already use, but be cautious with new formulas if you’re buying multiples
Day 6 — Thursday, August 6: Lunch, meal prep and back-to-routine kitchen products
School and work schedules can make meal planning harder, so this day focuses on products that simplify lunches, snacks and weeknight dinners. Here are some of our favorite finds to help make your fall kitchen routine run smoother:
HelloFresh Meal Kit Deliveries
New HelloFresh subscribers can receive 10 free meals plus a free mini Caraway Fry Pan valued at $115 with this limited-time offer. Sign up for HelloFresh
Fresko V8 New AutoMax Fully Automatic Vacuum Sealer
This hands-free Fresko vacuum sealer detects bags, adjusts settings, and seals automatically. A smarter way to prep, store, and reduce food waste.Apply code JULY-V8-20 at checkout to get an extra 20% off.– In stock and ships within 2-5 business days- 30-day risk-free trial- 1-year warranty- Free shipping and returns Save an extra 20% at Fresko
Fit & Fresh Cool Coolers Soft Ice Packs, 2-Pack
Designed for busy families, these reusable soft ice packs stay flexible even when frozen, making them easier to fit around lunch containers, drinks and snacks.They’re BPA-free, leak-resistant and can help keep food cold for hours whether you’re packing a school lunch, daycare bag or cooler. Save at Amazon
Stasher Recyclable Sealable Paper Sandwich Bags, 50-Count, Dino
These fun, plastic-free dinosaur paper sandwich bags feature a secure peel-and-seal closure and expandable sides for easy school lunches. Save at Amazon
Smart shopping tip: Look for dishwasher-safe lunch containers, leak-resistant bottles and freezer-friendly meal-prep sets
Week 2: Fall vibes, home, family and seasonal prep
Week 2 shifts from school-year setup to seasonal home life. Expect fall décor, pet routine products, seasonal foods, sleep upgrades, early Halloween shopping, travel essentials and end-of-summer clearance opportunities
Day 8 — Saturday, August 8: Fall home refresh and seasonal décor
This is the day for small updates that make a home feel ready for the season: throw blankets, candles, wreaths, pillows, entryway décor and warm-toned accents
- Bath & Body Works, Anthropologie and Yankee Candle: Seasonal candles, soap, holiday decorations
Smart shopping tip: Choose a few high-impact pieces instead of replacing everything. A new wreath, throw blanket and candle can do a lot
Day 9 — Sunday, August 9: Pet products for fall routines and travel
As schedules shift, pets need routine updates too. Look for pet beds, food storage, puppy and kitten must-haves, grooming products and pet food subscriptions
Smart shopping tip: If your pet’s food or medication is eligible for auto-ship savings, compare the recurring price against one-time purchase deals
Day 10 — Monday, August 10: Fall foods, seasonal flavors and cookware
Pumpkin spice, apple treats, bakeware, cookware, coffee makers and pantry upgrades can help bring fall into the kitchen before the weather changes
- HexClad, All-Clad and Williams Sonoma: Cookware, bakeware, kitchen essentials
Smart shopping tip: Seasonal food items sell early. If there’s a limited-edition product you love, don’t assume it will still be available later
Day 11 — Tuesday, August 11: Bedding, sleep and comfort upgrades
A better fall routine often starts with better sleep. This focus includes sheets, pillows, comforters, mattress toppers, blankets and guest-room upgrades
- Saatva, Cozy Earth and Mattress Firm: Mattresses, bedding bundles, bedroom upgrades
Smart shopping tip: Labor Day can be a strong time to watch for mattress and bedding deals, but smaller comfort upgrades may be worth buying earlier if you need them now
Day 12 — Wednesday, August 12: Early Halloween shopping and seasonal hosting
Halloween may feel far away, but early shoppers often get the best selection on costumes, decorations, candy bowls, porch décor and hosting supplies
- Pottery Barn, My Evergreen and Spirit Halloween: Festive home decor, outdoor decorations and Halloween costumes
- Costco and Sam’s Club: Bulk groceries, school lunch supplies, seasonal finds and tailgating food
Smart shopping tip: Buy popular costumes and outdoor decorations early, then wait for candy deals closer to October
Day 13 — Thursday, August 13: Labor Day weekend travel and outdoor essentials
This day is built for end-of-summer trips and long weekend plans: luggage, weekender bags, packing cubes, road-trip gear, coolers, kid-friendly travel essentials and portable chargers
Smart shopping tip: Make a packing list before shopping so you don’t buy duplicate travel accessories you already own
Day 14 — Friday, August 14: Best end-of-summer deals and final clearance opportunities
End-of-summer clearance sales can be some of the smartest times to buy discounted patio furniture, outdoor gear, swim items, warm-weather apparel and seasonal décor for next year
Smart shopping tip: Clearance is only a deal if you’ll actually use or store the item. Prioritize durable products that won’t feel dated next summer
Week 3: Home improvement, outdoor and yard prep
Week 3 is the practical home-prep stretch. Shopping highlights include yard cleanup, outdoor storage, tools, garage organization, cold-weather prep, hiking, outdoor cleaning and home security
Day 15 — Saturday, August 15: Fall yard cleanup, leaf season and lawn care essentials
This is the time to get ahead of leaf season with rakes, bags, gloves, trimmers, lawn tools and outdoor cleanup supplies
- The Home Depot and Ace Hardware: Outdoor maintenance, yard prep and seasonal home upgrades
Smart shopping tip: Check whether battery-powered yard tools share the same battery system before adding another tool to your setup
Day 16 — Sunday, August 16: Outdoor storage, patio protection and seasonal maintenance
Protecting summer gear now can save money later. Look for patio covers, deck boxes, storage sheds, furniture covers and weatherproof bins
Smart shopping tip: Measure furniture before buying covers, especially for sectionals, grills and irregular outdoor pieces
Day 17 — Monday, August 17: Tools, garage organization and DIY project basics
For fall projects, garage cleanouts and home fixes, this focus highlights tool kits, shelving, pegboards, work lights, storage racks and DIY basics
Smart shopping tip: If you’re just starting a tool collection, buy versatile basics first: a drill, level, tape measure, hammer, screwdriver set and storage case
Day 18 — Tuesday, August 18: Cold-weather home prep, smart thermostats and draft blockers
Cooler weather can expose gaps in your home setup. This day focuses on smart thermostats, air purifiers, draft blockers, weather stripping, insulation products and energy-saving basics
Smart shopping tip: Small fixes like door sweeps and window insulation kits can be affordable first steps before bigger home upgrades
Day 19 — Wednesday, August 19: Fall hiking and outdoor recreation
Fall weekends are made for trail gear, layers, hiking shoes, backpacks, water bottles and outdoor accessories
Smart shopping tip: Focus on footwear and layers first. A comfortable hike starts with shoes that fit well and clothing that can handle temperature changes
Day 20 — Thursday, August 20: Outdoor cleaning, pressure washing and maintenance products
Before colder weather sets in, tackle outdoor cleaning projects with pressure washers, hoses, scrub brushes, cleaners, gloves and storage tools
Smart shopping tip: Check surfaces before using a pressure washer. Some materials need gentler cleaning methods
Day 21 — Friday, August 21: Home security, emergency prep and smart home upgrades
The week wraps with smart home and safety products: cameras, doorbells, sensors, backup power, emergency kits, flashlights and weather-readiness products
Smart shopping tip: Start with the area that gives you the most practical benefit, such as your front door, garage, driveway or backup power needs
Week 4: Football, entertainment and Labor Day shopping
The final week turns toward football season, watch parties, entertainment upgrades, fall fashion, college football kickoff and Labor Day sales previews
Day 22 — Saturday, August 22: Football season essentials
Football season shopping starts with fan gear, jerseys, sneakers, team merch and books
- Fanatics and Dick’s Sporting Goods: Football gear, team merch, youth sports and tailgating essentials
Smart shopping tip: If you’re buying team apparel as a gift, choose classic logo gear if you’re unsure about a player name or roster changes
Day 23 — Sunday, August 23: Tailgating products and outdoor entertaining
Tailgate season calls for coolers, folding chairs, canopies, portable tables, drinkware, games and outdoor cooking gear
Smart shopping tip: Look for products that also work beyond game day, such as coolers, folding chairs and outdoor tables
Day 24 — Monday, August 24: Game day food, delivery, kitchen appliances and hosting supplies
For watch parties, this focus covers air fryers, slow cookers, cookware, snack trays, serving pieces, drinkware, delivery deals and kitchen appliances
Smart shopping tip: Choose appliances based on what you actually cook most. An air fryer, multicooker or slow cooker can be useful if it fits your routine beyond football season
Day 25 — Tuesday, August 25: TVs, soundbars and home entertainment upgrades
If your living room needs a game-day upgrade, look out for the best TVs to buy, soundbars, streaming devices, projectors, seating and media storage
Smart shopping tip: Before buying a TV, measure your space and confirm the screen size works with your seating distance
Day 26 — Wednesday, August 26: Fall fashion, shoes and transitional apparel
This day helps readers move from summer outfits into fall layers: denim, jackets, sneakers, loafers, boots, sweaters and transitional basics
Smart shopping tip: Prioritize pieces that layer well over what you already own
Day 27 — Thursday, August 27: NCAA college football kick-off shopping and watch party products
College football fans can stock up on team gear, décor, drinkware, snacks, tailgate accessories and watch party supplies
Smart shopping tip: If your team colors are seasonal, shop early before popular sizes and styles sell out
Day 28 — Friday, August 28: Labor Day sales preview and big-ticket shopping
The Fall Reset winds down with a look at Labor Day sales and deals, especially bigger-ticket areas such as mattresses, appliances, furniture, vacuums, cookware and home upgrades
Smart shopping tip: Make a wish list before the holiday weekend. For big-ticket items, compare the sale price, delivery fees, warranty terms and return window before buying
What should you buy in August?
Retailers to watch during The Fall Reset this August
Looking for a place to start? The Fall Reset is your shopping helper for everything from back-to-school, dorm, home, beauty, technology, pet, outdoor, football, meal prep, storage, Halloween, gifting and Labor Day shopping. Here are some top retailers to watch:
What is The Fall Reset?
The Fall Reset is a four-week shopping guide built around the biggest seasonal shifts shoppers face in August: getting kids and college students ready for school, refreshing the home for fall, preparing yards and outdoor spaces for cooler weather, and gearing up for football season and Labor Day sales
The event’s goal is to provide our readers with easy shopping recommendations so they can start the new season off feeling prepared and on-budget
Bookmark this page for daily updates
The best fall shopping plan is the one that helps you stay ahead without overspending. Bookmark this guide and check back throughout The Fall Reset for daily shopping inspiration, timely deals, editor-curated picks and practical products that can make the season feel easier, cozier and more organized
Whether you’re packing a dorm room, restocking school supplies, refreshing your home, prepping the yard, planning a tailgate or waiting for Labor Day deals, The Fall Reset is here to help you shop smarter—one day at a time
USA TODAY Shopping will be covering all the best deals and drops, so be sure to sign up for text alerts, check us out on Flipboard, follow us on TikTok, sign up for our newsletter and follow us on Instagram to stay updated!
Our editors independently choose our recommendations. Some content is produced with paid support from a third party, however our editorial decisions remain independent. If you buy through our links, the USA TODAY Network may earn a commission. Prices and availability may change
