Back-to-school shopping doesn’t have to break the bank—if you know where to shop. Whether you’re stocking up on notebooks, backpacks, or pens, the price differences between stores can be significant. To help you make the most of your budget, we’ve rounded up the most expensive and cheapest stores for school supplies, so you can get everything you need without spending a fortune.
The Most Expensive Stores for School Supplies
If you’re not careful, back-to-school shopping at these stores could leave your wallet feeling a bit lighter. Here’s where you might want to think twice before filling your cart.
1. Staples: The Price of Convenience
Staples is known for its wide selection and convenience, but that often comes with a higher price tag. While you can find just about everything you need for back-to-school shopping, expect to pay more for the convenience and quality brands.
2. Office Depot/OfficeMax: Paying for Premium Brands
Office Depot and OfficeMax offer a vast range of supplies, but their prices tend to be on the higher side, especially for name-brand items. If you’re looking for premium products, this might be your go-to, but be prepared to spend a bit more.
3. Target: Trendy and Pricey
Target is a favorite for its trendy, stylish supplies, but that style can come at a cost. While they offer some budget-friendly options, many of their items, especially those in special collections, can be pricier than other retailers.
4. Amazon: Convenience at a Cost
Amazon might be your go-to for just about everything, but when it comes to school supplies, the convenience can sometimes come with a higher price. While you can score deals, particularly if you’re a Prime member, prices can vary widely depending on the seller.
5. Walmart: Not Always the Cheapest
Walmart is often associated with low prices, but for school supplies, that isn’t always the case. While they offer affordable basics, some of their items, especially brand-name products, can be more expensive than you might expect.
The Cheapest Stores for School Supplies
These stores prove that you don’t have to spend a fortune to get everything on your school supply list. Check out the best spots to score great deals without sacrificing quality.
1. Dollar Tree: Budget-Friendly Basics
Dollar Tree is a top choice for families on a budget. You can find a wide array of school supplies here, including notebooks, pens, and folders, all for just $1. While the quality might not be top-tier, it’s perfect for stocking up on essentials.
2. Walmart: Affordable Essentials
While Walmart may have some pricier items, they also offer a wide range of budget-friendly school supplies. Their private-label brands, in particular, are often cheaper than the competition, making it a great spot for bulk shopping.
3. Target: Budget Buys in the Basics Aisle
Despite some of their trendier items being on the expensive side, Target also has a great selection of budget-friendly basics. Keep an eye out for their back-to-school sales, where you can find great deals on notebooks, pens, and backpacks.
4. Aldi: Surprising School Supply Savings
Aldi might not be the first store that comes to mind for school supplies, but they often carry a small selection of essentials at unbeatable prices. The inventory is limited, so if you see something you need, grab it before it’s gone.
5. Amazon: Deals with a Little Patience
Yes, Amazon makes both lists! If you’re willing to do a bit of searching, Amazon can be a goldmine for cheap school supplies. Look for items sold directly by Amazon or from sellers with high ratings, and use price tracking tools to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Bonus Tips: How to Save Even More on School Supplies
Stretch your dollar even further with these savvy shopping tips that can help you save big on school supplies this year.
1. Shop During Tax-Free Weekends
Many states offer tax-free weekends during the back-to-school season. Plan your shopping around these dates to save a little extra on your purchases.
2. Use Coupons and Cashback Apps
Apps like Rakuten, Honey, and Ibotta can help you find coupons and earn cashback on your school supply purchases. Always check for deals before you checkout.
3. Buy in Bulk and Share the Cost
Consider buying supplies in bulk and splitting the cost with other parents. This strategy can be especially effective for items like pens, paper, and notebooks.
4. Wait for End-of-Season Sales
If you can, hold off on buying certain items until after the school year starts. End-of-season sales often offer deep discounts on leftover stock.
5. Consider Store Brands
Store brands often offer the same quality as name brands at a fraction of the price. Don’t be afraid to opt for generic when it comes to items like notebooks, folders, and pens.
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Drazen Zigic.
The images used are for illustrative purposes only and may not represent the actual people or places mentioned in the article.
