School Supply Deals

School supply shopping for four kids can be a real hand full but I got it done on a relatively good budget.  Here are some of the deals I stumbled across that might help you....

Amazon: I am not a fan of cheap backpacks that only last a year.  I've paid my dues with the annually purchased character backpacks that have holes and broken straps by the third quarter of the year.  I need something tough and durable.  I've changed over to spending a bit more to buy a new one every few years (or as needed).  This year, Amazon has had a great sale on a good number of backpacks.  It is of note to say that if you're child is a picky fashionista, this may or may not be a good option.  However, I was able to provide several different color options and purchase an Eastsport backpack for under $20 that had great reviews and could easily move through the elementary to middle school (or even high school) transition without looking "too babyish."

Staples: If you ARE buying a backpack in person, Staples has some great options AND you get 25% off of your school supplies if you buy your backpack there.  The durable ones were around $40+ and their character backpacks were very reasonably priced.  Here are some other deals
Wood Rulers  $.25
Filler paper (Staples wide ruled and college ruled) $.75
Staples composition books  $.50
Staples RULED index cards (of note because there is a better deal on unlined elsewhere) $.48
Wescott 12" acrylic ruler (if you must have a see-through one) $1
BIC Comfort grip pens 12 pack (black) $1
Staples brand 4 oz glue $.50
2 pocket folder with fasteners $.17
It's of note that Staples will not only price match but give you 110% price match.

Office Max/Office Depot:  I love these guys because of their penny items.  My particular penny items included unlined note cards and 2 pocket folders.  These items are only a penny with a $5 purchase AND they are limited quantities (usually 10).  Other deals worth mentioning.....
This week only: Pink eraser 3 pack $.01 with $5.00 purchase
This week only: Composition books $.01 with $5.00 purchase
This week only:  Elmer's 4 oz school glue $.01 with $5.00 purchase
BIC 12 pack of stic pens $.25
Crayola brand markers 8 count $.25
Keep an eye on the ads because the penny items change weekly and it's a great way to tackle some of those more expensive items.

Walmart: It is of note that you can price match any major competitor at Walmart.  You may tick off the person behind you in line (and possibly the cashier) but you can.  My suggestion is to bring the ads with you (or have them ready on your phone but this is less convenient) and have the items circled for quick access....
One subject notebooks $.17
2 pack pink erasers $.48
24 pack of Cra Z Art crayons $.25
1 inch binders in various colors $.99
I did find dividers back in the office section for $.48 (5 pack) but they sell out fast and you might need to ask about them.  Otherwise $.88 dividers
4 pack Kleenex facial tissue $3.48

I have the ability to jump between stores (as they are all close by).  I have heard that Target has some great deals as well.  Keep your eye on the paper as many have coupons on pens, etc and you can get your pens at an even greater discount.  School supply shopping can be done on the cheap but it requires planning and careful execution (and often spreading it out over the course of several weeks to get the best deals).

Happy Hunting Denverites