How to Save Money on Discount School Supplies

If picking up the school supply list from your child's school fills you with dread and if heading to the store to buy all the things they need means that you have to take out a second mortgage on your home, then this article on saving money on discount school supplies is perfect for you. Getting the things your kids need to learn shouldn't put a hole in your pocket. Read on to learn how to save big by finding and buying discount school supplies.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. ~ Watch Sale Fliers ~
   
   Sometimes stores that you may not think of as good places for discount school supplies will have great sales on items like pencils, paper, folders and notebooks. Start looking at sales flyers in the middle of summer and pick up savings as you see them. Walgreens and Rite Aid often have great deals on many necessities.

2. 
   Avoid Character Merchandise

   ~ Don't Waste Money on Character Items ~
   
   Yes, your kids want the character folders, notebooks, etc. The problem with those items is that they cost much more - sometimes up to 5 times as much as similar plain items cost. Buy the plain items and then pick up some stickers at your local dollar store and allow your child to decorate their own folders and notebooks.

3. ~ Buy in Bulk When you See Good Deals ~
   
   When you find a really good deal on discount school supplies, buy them in bulk. Your kids will run out of things during the year and it will be harder to find good deals at that time - so stock up now. If you end up with extras, you can always add them to your child's arts and crafts box or donate them to children who can't afford school supplies.

4. ~ Check Again After School Starts ~
   
   You can find even better discount school supplies in the weeks after school begins. Check your local stores about a week after school is in session for even larger savings. There are some things that kids will always need - like pencils, pens, paper, folder, and notebooks - so you can easily stock up for later in the year or the following year after one school year has already begun.

5. 
   Take Advantage of Tax Free Shopping

   ~ Shop on a Tax-Free Weekend ~
   
   Many states have tax-free shopping weekends. If you wait for the tax-free weekend to buy school supplies, you'll save between 4 and 8 percent, depending on your state tax.

6. 
   Use Wholesale Stores for Bulk Items

   ~ Check Wholesale Type Stores ~
   
   Check your local wholesale clubs, like Sam's and Costco, especially if you have more than one child to buy for. You can get great deals on discount school supplies by buying them in bulk. This is especially true for notebooks, pens, loose leaf paper, pencils, etc.

Tips & Warnings

• Encourage your child to use their own money if they want specialty school supplies - such as character notebooks, pencils, etc.