It’s time to go back to school and we’ve reviewed all of the expert opinions on where to shop for everything you need to ace the upcoming school year. Whether you’re a student getting ready to dive back into the world of essays and timed tests or a parent aiming to check off those endless school supply lists, this list is for you! Grab your debit cards, unleash your inner fashionista, and allow StudyFinds to guide you to the best places to buy school supplies and other back-to-school essentials.
When it comes to procuring school supplies, a myriad of options are available, each catering to different needs and preferences. For those on a budget, discount stores like Walmart and Target provide a wide selection of affordable school essentials, often accompanied by back-to-school sales. Local stationery shops are excellent for personalized service and unique supplies that can’t be found elsewhere.
Online retailers such as Amazon offer the convenience of doorstep delivery and a vast assortment of school supplies, often with customer reviews to aid in decision-making. Specialty stores like art supply shops or educational stores can be a treasure trove for students with specific needs, such as artists or educators.
Ultimately, the best place to buy school supplies depends on your specific requirements, budget, and shopping preferences, with each option providing its unique advantages. What’s left on your school supply shopping list? Leave a comment and let us know.
The List: Best Places to Buy School Supplies, Per Experts
1. Amazon
Just like Google is synonymous with internet searches, Amazon is the first place you’ll visit when you think of online shopping for school supplies, and for good reason. “If you want to sit down at your computer and do all your shopping in one fell swoop, Amazon’s back-to-school storefront is your best bet,” writes a reviewer from Very Well Family. “The site is organized by age group and product category, and there’s even a search bar that helps you find your specific school’s supply list by providing your zip code (for participating schools). From crayons and lunch boxes for kindergarteners to celebrity-curated lists and dorm room must-haves, Amazon has it all.”
It’s no secret that nearly every school supply expert ranks Amazon at the top of their lists of best places to buy school supplies and a reviewer from We Are Teachers was no exception. “With daily deals and the ability to buy from suppliers across the country (and the globe), not to mention free, lightning-fast shipping, Amazon has become one of the best places to get bargain supplies.”
Forgetful parents or last-minute school supply shoppers can take advantage of the one perk Amazon has over it’s competitors, even if they aren’t loyal Amazon shoppers. A CNET school supply reviewer suggests this Amazon delivery hack, “If you don’t have a Prime membership, it’s worth it to sign up for Amazon’s free 30-day trial so you can at least get the free expedited shipping before school starts.”
2. Walmart
Thankfully none of us will have the misfortune of having a new first day of school every single week like Billy Madison in the 1995 comedy film starring Adam Sandler. But, if we did, Walmart would be our home away from home when we are ready to tackle those school projects. A reviewer from Deal News writes, “Walmart is another 1-stop shop for those on a Back to School mission. It often has some of the lowest prices available, as well. For instance, this year we’ve already seen Walmart offer dorm furniture from $30 and kids’ clothing priced as low as $4.”
Although Amazon is the go-to for online shopping, but Walmart may be the next best thing. “Walmart’s online interface is no slouch either,” adds The Spruce. “You can filter your search by category, product type, brand, and school grade. There’s even a classroom supplies section for teachers!”
And Walmart isn’t all about erasers, crayons, and paper folders. USA Today notes that Walmart should be the go-to shop for tech: “Walmart also sells a ton of top-rated tech like noise-canceling headphones and one of our favorite laptops for students, so you can order everything from one place.”
3. Target
While most retailers have their own dedicated following, going to Target is more of an experience than a task. “Target is a great place to shop both in-person and online, with tens of thousands of product offerings at agreeable price points,” a reviewer from The Spruce writes. “When you browse the website, you’ll find essentials from top brands and trendy, curated items for those looking for a little flair. With most orders, you can get two-day shipping or opt for in-store pickup. Every summer the retailer offers the Target Teacher Discount, a six-week summer event when teachers get 15 percent off school supplies.”
Besides feeling kind of high-end, without the high-end prices, a CNet reviewer writes, “Target is a great place to stock up on back-to-school essentials for any grade — and it’s totally budget-friendly. Plus, you don’t have to buy everything in bulk, which can be a problem with some online retailers.”
A reviewer at Deal News has great news for the busy Mama’s out there who have to use a minivan to corral their tribe. “The bull’s-eye retailer might be one of the only stores where you can do all your shopping in one spot, whether it’s for K-12 students or for new high school graduates needing college essentials.”
4. Old Navy
You can’t send your kids to school in last year’s clothes, even if they do have to wear uniforms. An expert reviewer at Very Well Family recommends Old Navy for your family’s wardrobe supply. “When it comes to uniforms, Old Navy makes it really easy to meet that school dress code and outfit your kiddo for the entire year—or buy many polo shirts so you don’t have to wash laundry as often!”
Just how low can Old Navy go? Surely, they can’t beat the prices at Goodwill. Well, truth be told, according to The Krazy Coupon Lady, “In June 2023, we saw Old Navy kids’ uniform polos go on sale for 50% off. Regular prices ranged from $9.99 – $49.99, so you could pay as low as $5 for a school shirt.” Now, that’s a real deal!
If you really want to save some cash, Old Navy might be the place to go because you can clothe two whole kids for less than dinner at McDonald’s, according to Time. “Notable deals include tees and leggings for girls starting at $5, polos and graphic tees starting at $6, shorts starting at $7, and dresses starting at $8.”
5. Dollar Tree
The Dollar Tree might be everybody’s favorite shopping spot to frolic and roam, but you should realize that it isn’t just selling cheap imitation knock-off products. Dollar Tree sells the exact same products as Target and Walmart for much lower prices. A reviewer from Time Out recommends checking it out: “From candy to composition books, this dollar store’s repertoire means business. Buy small items in packs online or individually instore.”
Some reviewers aren’t so keen to buy at Dollar Tree just for the prices. A school supply reviewer at My Favorite Life writes, “I’m personally a fan of Dollar Tree. However, you do have to know what to look out for there and what to skip. Some of the smaller supplies on your child’s school supply list like crayons and glue are going to be cheaper and better quality at Walmart or Target during the months of July and August. If your child needs a basic calculator for math, the ones you can pick up for $1 at Dollar Tree are a great option.”
Dollar Tree allows you to create fantastic personal spaces with charming decorative pieces that feel high quality and make you smile. When it comes to getting lost in a public space, Dollar Tree is the best place to do it because there is so much to see, touch and consider. A Top 10 reviewer agrees: “Not content with being the cheapest back-to-school shop, Dollar Tree also has an extensive selection. On its website, you’ll find supplies for every class. There’s even a section with decor for dorm rooms and home study spaces.”
Don’t worry about how much time you have left; you’re going to get your back-to-school supply shopping done and then you’ll have other things to worry about — like why every kid brought a report card home except for yours. In the meantime, leave a comment and share which store you find the best deals for back-to-school supplies.
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Sources:
- Best Life Online
- Top 10
- My Favorite Life
- Time Out
- Time
- The Krazy Coupon Lady
- Very Well Family
- Deal News
- CNet
- The Spruce
- USA Today