Our Best Secrets to Save on School Supplies

The dread has set in, you were just looking at Fourth of July fireworks when that first back to school commercial came on. It feels like summer just started, so why do brands every year promote the school season earlier and earlier?

Well aside from steep competition, back to school buying is a long season. Parents and students need time to buy all kinds of supplies including clothes, backpacks, laptops, books, and more.

Starting early spreads out the spending so it’s less stressful - think about that first trip to college and all the dorm necessities. Those trips to Target were early and often.

To keep the costs at bay here’s out best tips to shop for back to school:

Buy in Bulk: Purchase frequently used items like notebooks, pens, pencils, and glue sticks in bulk packs. You’ll need them especially if you have multiple school-aged kids in your home.

Wholesale stores like Costco, BJ’s or Sam’s Club or online retailers like Uline, Quill and Aliexpress often offer better prices per item - skip Staples. Another way in is Amazon Business if you have an account.

Next, check if your area has any local wholesale distributors for schools. They act as middlemen between manufacturers and retailers or end buyers. Wholesale distributors will stock large volumes of products like notebooks, pens, markers, backpacks, art supplies, classroom furniture, and more.

Use Coupons and Cashback Apps: By checking out manufacturer coupons in flyers, and on apps like Honey, Ibotta, Dosh, Rakuten, or store-specific apps you can earn cash back on your purchases. Pay special attention here for larger costs like laptops or printers or clothing where there can be more volume.

Simply download the app or sign up online. Next, link your credit/debit cards if the app tracks purchases automatically (some do), or be ready to upload receipts manually.

Look out for seasonal or back-to-school bonus cashback deals on certain items or stores. Some apps offer extra cashback for buying specific products or spending a certain amount.

Shop Off-Season or Clearance Sales: Buying supplies right after school starts or during back-to-school sales will do you good. Also check clearance sections post-season for discounted items you can stash away for next year.

Buy Generic or Store Brands: Store-brand supplies often work just as well as name brands but cost less. Opt for Dollar General or Dollar Tree instead of name brand retailers for things like pens, pencil holders or cases.

For items that require higher durability (like backpacks, electronics, or scientific calculators), shop somewhere dependable. Dollar stores however can be a goldmine for back-to-school shopping if you know how to shop smart.

DIY Supplies: You can have fun with the kids by making your own school supplies like notebook dividers, pencil cases, or bookmarks from recycled materials.

Use scrapbook paper, fabric, or printed designs to cover plain notebooks and binders. Sew or decorate a simple zipper pouch using fabric markers, patches, or iron-ons.

DIY back-to-school items are a fantastic way to save money, personalize supplies, and even have some fun crafting before the school year starts.

Swap with Friends or Family: Exchange supplies with friends or siblings who might have extras or no longer need certain items. Often the clutter just ends up being thrown out.

Check Online or Secondhand Retail Marketplaces: Look for secondhand supplies on platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or local buy/sell/trade groups. Places like Goodwill or Salvation Army often have school supplies sections. PTA groups sometimes organize supply exchanges so keep your eyes peeled for get together or simply start one!

Did you like these tips from Wealth Elf? Are you interested in additional ways to save in the new school year such as on groceries? Check out our guide: 11 Ways to Save on Food You Never Thought of.

Let us know your favorite back to school tips on Instagram at @Wealth_Elf