This Back-to-School Supplies Shopping List Will Cover All the Basics

Martha Sorren
·5 min read
Photo credit: Kseniya Ovchinnikova - Getty Images
Photo credit: Kseniya Ovchinnikova - Getty Images


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As summer break comes to an end it is time to start thinking about back-to-school shopping. It's always a struggle to figure out what your kids need for the school year and actually remember to buy all of it. This is your sign to not wait until the night before school starts to do all of your shopping. The now fully stocked shelves of school supplies won't stay that way as the first day of school quickly approaches. And the earlier you shop, the better chance you have at finding the best back-to-school sales. Also remember to empty out those old backpacks and desks to see if you already have some of these items on hand. Check ahead of time to see if your state has a tax-free shopping weekend for school supplies.

To make your shopping experience quicker and easier, we've compiled lists to keep in mind when buying for your pre-schooler, elementary school student, middle schooler, high schooler, or even your college-bound kids. You should follow any specific supply directives that your child's school gives you, but these lists should keep any kid covered for most schoolwork scenarios. Everything on this list is from Amazon or Walmart, making it so easy to shop from home your kindergarten could do it and you'll get everything you need lickety-split.

Preschool - Kindergarten

Photo credit: Jose Luis Pelaez - Getty Images
Photo credit: Jose Luis Pelaez - Getty Images

Elementary School

Photo credit: Klaus Vedfelt - Getty Images
Photo credit: Klaus Vedfelt - Getty Images

Middle-High School

Photo credit: Willie B. Thomas - Getty Images
Photo credit: Willie B. Thomas - Getty Images

College

May your shopping trips be successful!

When should I start buying school supplies?

The best time to buy school supplies is mid-to-late summer. Some stores offer sales as early as June, and the earlier you buy, the better chance you have of getting exactly what you need. School supply lists can be very specific, and shopping early is key. And we're not just talking about pens and pencils: there are deals to be had on clothing, backpacks, computers, and more. Of course, if you're not in a rush and are just looking to stock up, you can find major discounts if you wait until Labor Day to shop. One more thing to consider: Many states offer tax-free shopping weekends for school supplies. You can save a bit more money by shopping during these dates. It all adds up!

Are school supplies cheaper during back to school?

Yes. When it comes to pens, pencils, binders, notebooks, and other basic supplies, back-to-school season is the time to shop. For bigger ticket items, it can be worth waiting for Labor Day sales. The National Retail Foundation found that families are spending $864 on school items. That's up $168 from 2019, so it's more important than ever to find ways to save money.

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