How To Save On School Supplies In 2025: Deals, Coupons & DIY Hacks

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Back-to-school season in 2025 doesn’t have to break the bank. If you’re a parent trying to juggle bills, a student managing a tight budget, or someone simply looking to shop smarter—there’s good news: there are plenty of ways to save on school supplies this year with great back-to-school deals and sales.

With prices rising in many areas of life, saving on essentials like notebooks, backpacks, pens, and tech items is more important than ever. But don’t worry—this guide is packed with easy, real-life strategies to help you stretch your money further without cutting corners on quality or style. Let’s dive into the best deals, smart couponing, and creative DIY hacks that will make back-to-school shopping in 2025 a breeze.

1. Make a List and Stick to It

Before heading to the store or clicking “add to cart,” make a detailed list of what you actually need. It’s easy to get caught up in colorful markers, cute planners, and trendy gadgets—but a list keeps you grounded.

Ask your child’s teacher (or school) for a supply list if you haven’t already received one. Then, take inventory of what you already have at home—chances are you’ve got unused folders, pens, or even last year’s backpack that still looks brand new.

👉 Pro Tip: Let your child help with the list. It gives them ownership and teaches smart shopping habits.

2. Shop Your House First

Seriously—look around your home before spending a dime. Check drawers, cabinets, closets, and even under the bed. You might be surprised at how many supplies you already own.

That pack of pencils from last year? Still usable. The binder from three years ago? Just needs a quick wipe-down. This simple step can knock several items off your shopping list right away.

Bonus: Involve your kids and turn it into a mini scavenger hunt—it’s fun, and it saves money.

3. Set a Budget (and Make It a Game!)

Setting a spending limit turns shopping into a challenge. Kids love games, and giving them a budget helps them learn about money while getting excited about the task.

For example, give your child $40 to spend on their school supplies. Let them compare prices, look for deals, and decide what matters most to them.

🎯 Goal: Find everything you need within budget without feeling deprived. It’s a life skill and a money-saving trick in one.

4. Score Big with Sales & Store Promotions

Retailers know back-to-school is a major season, so expect lots of deals—if you know where and when to look.

You can check this in coupomania.com, a helpful resource for tracking the latest school supply sales, coupons, and promo codes all in one place.

Top Places to Find Back-to-School Deals in 2025:

• Walmart – Weekly rollbacks and school bundles
  
• Target – Price match guarantees + Circle Rewards
  
• Amazon – Lightning deals and Prime discounts
  
• Office Depot/Staples – $0.25 deals on basics like notebooks and glue sticks
  
• Dollar Tree/Daiso – Hidden gems for super-low prices

Most stores start rolling out deals in late July and hit peak sales by early August. Weekends are great for limited-time promos, and tax-free weekends (in some states) offer huge savings if you time it right.

5. Stack Coupons and Cash-Back Apps

If you’re not using digital coupons or cashback apps, you’re leaving money on the table.

💰 Here are must-try tools for 2025:

• Rakuten – Earn up to 10% cash back at major retailers
  
• Coupomania – Find digital coupon codes and sales at popular stores
  
• Ibotta – Get cash back on school supplies (and groceries too)
  
• Target Circle – Exclusive discounts + rewards
  
• RetailMeNot – Check promo codes before buying online

6. Go Generic—It’s Just as Good

Sure, those name-brand highlighters look cool, but many store-brand items are just as durable and cost half as much. Especially for items like:

• Binders
  
• Pencils
  
• Glue
  
• Spiral notebooks
  
• Index cards

Try one or two store-brand items this year. You’ll likely be pleasantly surprised by the quality—and your wallet will thank you.

7. Buy in Bulk (And Share the Cost)

Buying supplies like pens, folders, and crayons in bulk can save you a ton over the school year. But instead of buying 100 pencils yourself, split the cost with another family or two.

Create a “school supply share group” with friends, neighbors, or other parents. You’ll each pay less and still get what you need.

📦 What to buy in bulk:

• Paper
  
• Pens/pencils
  
• Notebooks
  
• Markers
  
• Disinfecting wipes

8. Try Thrift Stores & Secondhand Finds

Backpacks, lunchboxes, even clothes and tech gear can often be found in excellent condition at thrift shops or online marketplaces like:

• Facebook Marketplace
  
• OfferUp
  
• eBay
  
• Local Buy/Sell groups

Look for quality brands gently used for half the price or less. And when it comes to back-to-school clothes, remember: kids grow fast—buying used just makes sense.

9. Tap Into School & Community Giveaways

Many schools and community groups offer free supply giveaways, especially for low-income families or those in need. Check:

• Local churches
  
• Nonprofits
  
• Public schools
  
• City events

10. Get Creative with DIY School Supplies

Want to really save? Try DIY hacks that make old things feel new again. It’s fun, budget-friendly, and lets your child personalize their gear.

✂️ Easy DIY Ideas:

• Cover old notebooks with printed scrapbook paper or stickers
  
• Create a pencil case out of a zippered pouch or old makeup bag
  
• Decorate folders and binders with washi tape or fabric
  
• Make bookmarks from recycled cereal boxes or magazine cutouts

Not only will you save money—you’ll also reduce waste. Win-win!

11. Reuse Tech When You Can

Electronics like calculators, tablets, and headphones can be a huge expense. If your child’s old device still works, there’s no need to upgrade just because it’s a new school year.

Clean it, charge it, and pack it. If you do need to buy tech, consider:

• Refurbished items (from trusted sellers)
  
• Open box deals from Best Buy or Amazon
  
• Student discounts on brands like Apple, Microsoft, and Dell

12. Shop at the Right Time

Timing is everything when it comes to back-to-school savings. If you can, wait until late August or early September for clearance deals—especially on backpacks, lunch bags, and clothing.

Retailers are eager to clear out their shelves, so you’ll find markdowns to save on school supplies up to 70%. Stock up then for next year, or for replenishing supplies mid-year.

13. Don’t Forget Digital Freebies

Digital school supplies count too! Before buying pricey subscriptions or software, look for free versions of:

• Note-taking apps (like Evernote or Google Keep)
  
• Study tools (like Quizlet or Khan Academy)
  
• Writing programs (like Grammarly or Google Docs)
  
• Math tools (like Desmos or GeoGebra)

Plus, many schools now offer student access to premium tools—ask your school before paying out of pocket.

Smart Spending Is Smart Parenting

School supplies are more than pens and paper—they’re tools that help children learn, grow, and succeed. But you don’t have to spend a fortune to send your kids back with confidence.

With a little planning, creativity, and smart shopping, you can turn back-to-school season into a stress-free, money-saving mission. From stacking coupons to DIY crafts, there are so many ways to save in 2025 without sacrificing quality or fun.

So grab that list, rally your family, and turn shopping into a smart and rewarding experience. Because in today’s world, saving money is more than a skill—it’s a superpower.

Happy Saving!

The Coupomania Team