What Time of Year is Best to Buy School Supplies? [2024]

Quick Answer: The best time to buy school supplies is during the summer months, specifically in July and August. However, it’s important to keep an eye out for sales and promotions throughout the year. Shopping holidays like Prime Day and sales tax holidays in certain states can also offer great deals. Start early to save money and ensure you have everything you need for the upcoming school year.

Have you ever found yourself scrambling to buy school supplies at the last minute, only to realize that you’ve missed out on all the best deals? We’ve all been there. That’s why we’re here to help you navigate the world of back-to-school shopping and answer the burning question: What time of year is best to buy school supplies?

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to make smart shopping decisions and save money on school supplies. We’ll cover everything from the best time to start shopping to tips for finding the best deals. So grab a pen and paper (or your smartphone) and let’s get started!

Table of Contents

• Quick Answer
• Quick Tips and Facts
• Background: When Does Back-to-School Shopping Start?
• The Best Time to Buy School Supplies
• Are School Supplies Covered Under Sales Tax Holidays?
• How Can I Help Families Who Can’t Afford School Supplies?
• TRENDING: Back-to-School Shopping Trends
• Latest Stories: Back-to-School Shopping Hacks
• FAQ
• Conclusion
• Recommended Links
• Reference Links

Quick Answer

The best time to buy school supplies is during the summer months, specifically in July and August. This is when most retailers offer back-to-school sales and promotions, allowing you to snag great deals on everything from notebooks to backpacks. However, it’s important to keep an eye out for sales and promotions throughout the year. Shopping holidays like Prime Day and sales tax holidays in certain states can also offer excellent opportunities to save money on school supplies. Starting your shopping early in the summer ensures that you have everything you need for the upcoming school year and gives you plenty of time to take advantage of the best deals.

Quick Tips and Facts:

• July and August are the best months for back-to-school shopping.
• Look out for sales and promotions throughout the year.
• Shopping holidays like Prime Day offer great deals.
• Certain states have sales tax holidays for school supplies.
• Starting early ensures you have everything you need.

Now that we’ve covered the quick answer, let’s dive deeper into the topic and explore the best strategies for buying school supplies.

Background: When Does Back-to-School Shopping Start?

Back-to-school shopping typically starts in early-to-mid July, right after the July 4th holiday. This is when retailers begin stocking their shelves with school supplies and offering special promotions to attract shoppers. However, the exact start date may vary depending on your location and the specific retailer. It’s always a good idea to check with your local stores or visit their websites to find out when they will have their back-to-school inventory available.

During this time, you’ll find a wide range of school supplies, including notebooks, pens, pencils, backpacks, and more. It’s also a great time to shop for back-to-school clothes, as many retailers offer discounts and promotions on clothing items as well.

The Best Time to Buy School Supplies

While July and August are generally the best months for back-to-school shopping, it’s important to keep in mind that sales and promotions can happen at any time of the year. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your school supply shopping:

1. Start Early: The earlier you start shopping, the better chance you have of finding the best deals. By starting in July or early August, you’ll have a wider selection of products to choose from and more time to compare prices.

2. Keep an Eye Out for Sales: Retailers often offer back-to-school sales and promotions throughout the summer months. Keep an eye on newspaper ads, online retailers, and social media for information about upcoming sales. Sign up for email newsletters from your favorite stores to receive notifications about special promotions.

3. Take Advantage of Shopping Holidays: Shopping holidays like Prime Day, which usually takes place in July, can offer significant discounts on school supplies. Keep an eye out for special deals and promotions during these events.

4. Consider Sales Tax Holidays: Some states have sales tax holidays specifically for school supplies. During these designated periods, certain items are exempt from sales tax, allowing you to save even more money. Check with your state’s department of revenue to find out if your state offers a sales tax holiday and when it will take place.

5. Shop Online: Online retailers often offer competitive prices and a wide selection of school supplies. Take advantage of online shopping to compare prices and find the best deals. Don’t forget to factor in shipping costs when comparing prices.

6. Shop in Bulk: If you have multiple children or know that you’ll need a large quantity of certain items, consider buying in bulk. Many retailers offer discounts for bulk purchases, allowing you to save money in the long run.

Remember, the key to finding the best deals on school supplies is to start early and stay informed. Keep an eye out for sales and promotions, compare prices, and take advantage of shopping holidays and sales tax holidays to save money.

Are School Supplies Covered Under Sales Tax Holidays?

Yes, school supplies are often covered under sales tax holidays in certain states. Sales tax holidays are designated periods during which certain items are exempt from sales tax. These holidays are typically timed to coincide with back-to-school shopping and are designed to help families save money on essential items.

The specific items that are exempt from sales tax during these holidays vary by state. In general, school supplies such as notebooks, pens, pencils, backpacks, and calculators are included. Some states also include clothing, shoes, and computers in their sales tax holidays.

Here are some examples of states that have sales tax holidays for school supplies:

• Alabama: July 21-23
• Arkansas: August 5-6
• Connecticut: August 20-26
• Iowa: August 4-5
• Maryland: August 13-19
• Mississippi: July 28-29
• Missouri: August 4-6
• New Jersey: August 26-September 4
• New Mexico: August 4-6
• Ohio: August 4-6
• Oklahoma: August 4-6
• South Carolina: August 4-6
• Tennessee: July 28-30
• Texas: August 11-13
• West Virginia: August 4-7

These dates are subject to change, so it’s always a good idea to check with your state’s department of revenue for the most up-to-date information.

How Can I Help Families Who Can’t Afford School Supplies?

If you’re looking for ways to help families who can’t afford school supplies, there are several options available:

1. Donate to Charitable Organizations: Many charitable organizations, such as the Kids in Need Foundation, collect and distribute school supplies to families in need. Consider making a donation to these organizations to help provide essential supplies to children who might otherwise go without.

2. Organize a School Supply Drive: Start a school supply drive in your community or at your workplace. Encourage people to donate new or gently used school supplies, and then distribute them to families in need.

3. Volunteer at Local Schools: Reach out to local schools and offer your assistance. Many schools have programs in place to help provide school supplies to students in need. By volunteering your time, you can make a direct impact on the lives of these students.

4. Support Teachers: Teachers often spend their own money to buy school supplies for their students. Consider supporting teachers by donating supplies directly to their classrooms or by making a financial contribution to help offset their expenses.

By taking action and supporting these initiatives, you can make a difference in the lives of children who might otherwise struggle to afford the necessary school supplies.

TRENDING: Back-to-School Shopping Trends

As back-to-school shopping evolves, new trends emerge. Here are some of the latest trends in back-to-school shopping:

1. Online Shopping: With the rise of e-commerce, more and more people are turning to online shopping for their back-to-school needs. Online retailers offer convenience, a wide selection of products, and often competitive prices.

2. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Products: Many consumers are becoming more conscious of the environmental impact of their purchases. As a result, there is a growing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly school supplies, such as recycled paper notebooks and reusable lunch containers.

3. Personalized and Customizable Products: Personalization is a popular trend in back-to-school shopping. From monogrammed backpacks to custom-designed notebooks, students are looking for ways to express their individuality through their school supplies.

4. Tech Gadgets and Accessories: As technology becomes more integrated into education, tech gadgets and accessories are in high demand. From laptops and tablets to headphones and charging cables, students need the right tools to succeed in the digital age.

Latest Stories: Back-to-School Shopping Hacks

Looking for some insider tips and tricks to make your back-to-school shopping experience even better? Check out these latest stories for some helpful hacks:

1. 10 Back-to-School Shopping Hacks to Save Money: Discover clever strategies to save money on school supplies, clothing, and more.

2. The Ultimate Back-to-School Shopping Checklist: Make sure you have everything you need for the upcoming school year with this comprehensive checklist.

3. How to Organize Your School Supplies for Maximum Efficiency: Learn how to keep your school supplies organized and easily accessible throughout the year.

4. The Best Backpacks for Every Student: Find the perfect backpack for your needs with this in-depth guide.

FAQ

Q: What is the best time to buy school supplies?
A: The best time to buy school supplies is during the summer months, specifically in July and August. However, it’s important to keep an eye out for sales and promotions throughout the year.

Q: How much should you spend on school supplies per year?
A: The amount you spend on school supplies per year can vary depending on your child’s grade level and specific school requirements. On average, parents spend around $100 to $200 per child on school supplies.

Q: What is the most purchased school supply?
A: The most purchased school supply is the classic No. 2 pencil. It’s a staple in every student’s backpack and is used for everything from taking notes to filling out scantron sheets.

Q: When should I buy back-to-school clothes?
A: Back-to-school clothes shopping typically starts in July and continues through August. However, it’s a good idea to start early to take advantage of sales and promotions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the best time to buy school supplies is during the summer months, specifically in July and August. However, it’s important to keep an eye out for sales and promotions throughout the year. Shopping holidays like Prime Day and sales tax holidays in certain states can also offer great deals. Starting your shopping early ensures that you have everything you need for the upcoming school year and gives you plenty of time to take advantage of the best deals.

Remember to start early, keep an eye out for sales, and take advantage of shopping holidays and sales tax holidays to save money on school supplies. And don’t forget to consider donating or volunteering to help families who can’t afford school supplies.

We hope this guide has provided you with valuable insights and tips for your back-to-school shopping. Happy shopping!

Recommended Links

• Classroom Supplies
• Teachers’ Guides
• Teacher Planners and Organizers
• Best Teacher Supply Store 2024

Reference Links

• When Is the Best Time to Start Back-to-School Shopping?