Kmart's must-have back-to-school item has shoppers joining a waitlist

The $59 product has been flying off shelves and everyone wants it before term one begins.

It's that time of year - Christmas is done, we've entered the new year and summer school holidays are coming to a close, meaning many parents are starting to tick off all the items on their kids' back-to-school lists. 

But there's one particular 'must-have' item that is stopping many from finalising that list.

Kmart's 168-pack of graphic markers, a dupe of the Copic sketch markers, has been flying off the shelves thanks to being featured on many school kids' school wishlists. 

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Kmart's graphic markers are a must-have for the new school year

The alcohol-based markers come in a large zip-lock bag with an impressive range of colours inside and a handle making it easy to transport for any art enthusiast. 

The pack retails at just $59 compared to the Copic range, which is being sold at Officeworks for $664 for a 72 pack (yes, you read that right!)

Savvy shoppers have seen how impressive the item is and it has become so popular that the retail giant has now put a disclaimer in the product description, which reads: "Subject to availability, this product is available for purchase in NSW, QLD, VIC, WA, SA and ACT. "

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These graphic markers are on many back to school wishlists. Image: Kmart

Parents are joining a waitlist

But that hasn't deterred shoppers, with many insisting on joining a waitlist to be able to get their hands on a pack - whenever that may be!

One lucky shopper managed to nab the item after patiently waiting for it to come back in stock. 

"Kmart keeps running out. I have been on the waitlist for this 168-pack for so long and they finally restocked," she shared online.

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The product is sold out online. Image: Kmart

And the bargain product didn't disappoint.

"Oh my goodness... That is stunning. Wow cool... It comes with a handy strap. This case is fantastic," she reviewed. 

While there are some noticeable differences between Kmart's pack of markers and the popular Copic brand, other shoppers agreed the quality was fantastic given the low price. 

"These markers are amazing. They lay down so flat and smooth. The colours are vibrant. Well worth it for the price."

And another agreed: "This set has all of the colours that you could wish for. They are good quality and are long lasting. This big set is good value compared to others I have seen and used."

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Don't worry, Kmart says there's more coming!

When Kidspot reached out to Kmart to see when customers could expect more stock to appear on shelves, the rep for the retailer said they anticipate the product to be online in the "coming months". 

They also added that while it is an online-only item, they weren't at all surprised by the popularity of the product. 

"The Kmart 36-Pack Graphic Marker is popular because it offers a wide selection of vibrant colours at an affordable price, making it ideal for back-to-school shopping. Parents and kids appreciate its value for money, while its wide range of hues caters to creative projects for students of all ages," they told Kidspot. 

"This marker set is versatile and practical, making it perfect for families. With 36 different shades, this product suits a variety of needs, from school assignments to arts and crafts at home. Its affordability and accessibility ensure it fits seamlessly into any household budget or school supply list.

"Customers love the vibrant and durable ink quality, the wide variety of colours, and the generous quantity of markers included in one set, making it a favourite among parents and children alike."

Kmart shoppers can't get enough of their summer dupes

The graphic markers join a long list of dupes that have been spotted in Kmart stores this summer. 

Last week, one shopper raved about a beach chair - a copy of Sunnylife's summer accessory - that made a trip to the beach 10 times more comfortable. 

Aussie content creator Francesca has taken to TikTok to share her newest find at the store - their Pink Stripe Towel Recliner.

“It’s $39 and it’s like a little couch/seat/bed,” she said.

“It folds up, and then it goes flat, and it is so comfortable, it’s got a lot of back support. Also the best part - you can carry it!”

The chair is advertised as a ‘stylish, lightweight recliner’ with a padded seat and backrest with multiple adjustable reclining positions, and many people wanted IN!

“I’ve been influenced! just bought it,” said one commenter.

“Now I gotta go back to Kmart…” said another. 

Originally published as Kmart's must-have back-to-school item has shoppers joining a waitlist