With back-to-school season around the corner, savvy parents can turn to dollar stores to stretch budgets without sacrificing quality. Shopping smart at dollar stores can lead to significant savings, especially when it comes to stocking up on essential school supplies. From the comprehensive lists provided by your child’s teacher this year to the items that will help your little student be successful in the classroom and out, you can find a wide range of basics at these budget-friendly stores like Dollar Tree, Dollar General, and Dollar Store.
Items like composition notebooks, loose-leaf paper, pencils, and other fundamental supplies are readily available at various dollar stores. You’ll also be able to snag binders, folders, and planners. You can fulfill almost all of school requirements without breaking the bank with some thoughtful curation. And contrary to what some might believe, opting for dollar store school supplies doesn’t mean you’re compromising on quality either. Many of these items are comparable to those found at higher-priced retailers.
You’ll find our top 10 essential school supplies from dollar stores. And yes, each is around $1!
Best School Supplies From Dollar Stores
How to Save Money on School Supplies
Back-to-school season can be a significant financial burden for many families. But thanks to dollar stores nationwide, you can save big on the essentials. While you may want to splurge on school apparel and accessories that need to be able to withstand wear and tear (like backpacks and lunch boxes), there are still ways to spend less.
With a few strategic approaches, it’s possible to cut costs without sacrificing the quality of the supplies your child needs. Here are some effective tips to help you save money on school supplies:
Start with a List
Begin by obtaining the school supply list provided by your child’s teacher. This ensures you purchase only the necessary items, avoiding impulse buys. Sticking to a list helps streamline your shopping and keeps you focused on the essentials.
Shop Early
Start shopping early to take advantage of sales and discounts, like tax-free weekends and semi-annual sales. Many stores also offer back-to-school promotions weeks before the school year begins. By shopping early, you can spread out your expenses and avoid the last-minute rush when prices might be higher due to increased demand.
Utilize Dollar Stores
Dollar stores are a goldmine for basic school supplies. Items like notebooks, pencils, erasers, and folders are often available for just a dollar each. Despite their low prices, these items can be of comparable quality to those sold at higher-priced retailers.
Unlock Cash Back Offers
Ahem ahem, RetailMeNot has countless cash back offers. Simply search for the retailer you’re shopping at before you check out so you can get money back on your purchases. And, check back often! Cash back offers come in and out, and go up and down.
Buy in Bulk
For items that your child will need throughout the school year, consider buying in bulk. Supplies like pencils, pens, and paper are typically cheaper when purchased in larger quantities. This approach not only saves money but also ensures you have extras on hand when needed.
Use Coupons and Cashback Apps
Look for coupons and promo codes always. You can find almost any store listed at RetailMeNot.com and on RetailMeNot’s app. The retailer’s coupon page will list all of the validated promo codes and deals you need to save big!
Take Advantage of Tax-Free Holidays
Many states offer tax-free weekends during the back-to-school season, where you can buy school supplies without paying sales tax. Check if your state participates and plan your shopping around these dates to save on taxes.
Reuse and Recycle
Before heading out to buy new supplies, take stock of what you already have at home. Items like backpacks, lunchboxes, and binders can often be reused. Encouraging your child to repurpose or personalize old supplies can also be a fun and creative activity.
Buy Quality Items
While it might be tempting to buy the cheapest items available, sometimes spending a bit more on quality supplies can save money in the long run. Higher-quality items are more durable and less likely to need replacement during the school year.
Participate in Community Drives
Many communities and organizations hold school supply drives to help families in need. These events often provide free or discounted supplies, and participating can help reduce your overall expenses.
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