The back-to-school season can be an exciting yet overwhelming time for parents and students alike. As the new school year approaches, the list of necessary supplies seems to grow longer each year. From notebooks and pencils to backpacks and electronics, the cost of these items can add up quickly. Fortunately, with a bit of planning and smart shopping, you can save money and get the supplies your child needs without breaking the bank. Here are some tips on how to get discounts on back-to-school supplies.
One of the best ways to save on school supplies is to start shopping early. Retailers often offer early-bird discounts, and you can take advantage of these deals before the rush begins. Additionally, many stores have back-to-school sales during the summer months, where you can find significant discounts on a wide range of products. Keep an eye out for circulars, flyers, and online promotions to stay informed about upcoming sales.
Tip: Check out Target for their back-to-school deals. They frequently offer discounts on a variety of school supplies, including stationery, backpacks, and even electronics.
Coupons are a tried-and-true method for saving money on school supplies. Many retailers offer digital and printable coupons that can be applied at checkout, reducing the overall cost of your purchases. Additionally, consider using cashback apps like Rakuten or Ibotta, which give you a percentage of your money back on qualifying purchases. These apps often have special back-to-school promotions, so it's worth checking them out.
Tip: Stack coupons with sales for even greater savings. Some stores allow you to use multiple coupons on a single purchase, maximizing your discount.
Buying in bulk can lead to significant savings, especially for items like pencils, notebooks, and paper. If you have more than one child in school or if you can team up with other parents, purchasing supplies in bulk can help everyone save money. Warehouse stores like Costco and Sam's Club often have bulk deals on school supplies that can significantly reduce the cost per item.
Tip: Make a list of the items you use the most and consider buying them in bulk. This way, you'll always have extra supplies on hand throughout the school year.
Online shopping can be a great way to find discounts on school supplies, especially if you're looking for specific brands or hard-to-find items. Websites like Amazon, Walmart, and Office Depot often have competitive prices and offer special back-to-school promotions. Plus, you can compare prices across multiple sites quickly and easily to ensure you're getting the best deal.
Tip: Sign up for email alerts from your favorite online retailers to receive notifications about sales and exclusive discounts.
Many states offer tax-free weekends during the back-to-school season, allowing you to purchase school supplies without paying sales tax. This can result in significant savings, especially on larger purchases like laptops and calculators. Check your state's tax-free weekend schedule and plan your shopping accordingly.
Tip: Combine tax-free shopping with sales and coupons to maximize your savings.
Don't overlook discount stores like Dollar Tree, Five Below, or Big Lots when shopping for school supplies. These stores often have a wide selection of basic supplies at a fraction of the cost compared to larger retailers. While the selection may vary, you can often find great deals on essentials like notebooks, pens, and folders.
Tip: Visit discount stores early in the season for the best selection. These stores can sell out of popular items quickly as the school year approaches.
With a bit of planning and savvy shopping, you can easily find discounts on back-to-school supplies and start the school year off on the right foot. From taking advantage of early sales to using coupons and shopping online, there are plenty of ways to save money and ensure your child is fully prepared for the new school year.
For more savings and tips on back-to-school shopping, visit RetailMeNot. They offer a wide range of coupons and discounts that can help you save on everything from school supplies to clothing and electronics.
