With the new school year just around the corner, families in Richmond are searching for ways to save on school clothes and supplies. Over the years, I've learned that a little planning and creativity can go a long way in getting your kids ready for school without breaking the bank. Take a look at these ten handy tips I've discovered to help you shop smarter and save cash!
1. Shop at Discount Stores
Stores like Walmart, Target, and Dollar General are perfect for finding budget-friendly school supplies and clothing. They often have back-to-school sales and deals, making it simple to grab all the essentials without spending too much.
2. Explore Thrift Stores and Consignment Shops
Thrift stores and consignment shops are treasure troves for gently used clothing and school supplies at a fraction of their original cost. In Richmond, stores like Goodwill, Plato's Closet, and Once Upon a Child offer a variety of options, from school clothes to backpacks and even textbooks.
Goodwill Stores
- 12160 Iron Bridge Rd, Chester, VA 23831
- 11749 Hull St Rd, Midlothian, VA 23112
- 14740 Hull St Rd, Chesterfield, VA 23832
- 8535 Midlothian Tpke, Midlothian, VA 23235
- 6301 Midlothian Tpke, Richmond, VA 23225
- 1500 Boulevard, Colonial Heights, VA 23834
- 65 Crater Cir, Petersburg, VA 23805
Plato's Closet
- 65 Crater Cir, Petersburg, VA 23805
- 9762 Midlothian Tpke, North Chesterfield, VA 23235
- 11930 Iron Bridge Plz, Chester, VA 23831
Once Upon A Child
- 9770 Midlothian Tpke, North Chesterfield, VA 23235
- 52 Southgate Sq, Colonial Heights, VA 23834
Kid-to-Kid
- 4537 Commonwealth Centre Pkwy, Midlothian, VA 23112
- 8219 Hull St Rd, North Chesterfield, VA 23235
- 11700 Jefferson Davis Hwy, Chester, VA 23831
- 7519 Whitepine Rd, Richmond, VA 23237
- 10030 Robious Rd, North Chesterfield, VA 23235
- 24 Pickwick Ave, Colonial Heights, VA 23834
- 2501 Turner Rd, Richmond, VA 23224
- 9453 Amberdale Dr, N Chesterfld, VA 23236
- 4513 Commonwealth Centre Pkwy, Midlothian, VA 23112
- 3237 S Crater Rd, Petersburg, VA 23805
- 11 N Sycamore St, Petersburg, VA 23803
- 201 E Broadway, Hopewell, VA 23860
- 321 Cavalier Sq, Hopewell, VA 23860
- C Ave, Fort Gregg Adams, VA 23801
3. Take Advantage of Tax-Free Shopping Days
Virginia's tax-free shopping weekend, typically held in early August, is a great chance to save on school supplies, clothing, and footwear. This yearly event helps families cut down on expenses for essential items needed for the new school year.
4. Use Online Marketplaces
Online platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and OfferUp are great places to find affordable school clothes and supplies. Families often sell gently used items their kids have outgrown, making it an easy and budget-friendly way to get what you need.
5. Join Local Buy Nothing Groups
Buy Nothing groups on social media are communities where members give away items for free. By joining a local group in Richmond, you might find school supplies and clothes at no cost, helping you save even more.
- Richmond Freecycle
- Free everything!!! In the Richmond, VA and Surrounding Areas
- FREE Stuff! Henrico, Mechanicsville, Ashland, Richmond and Surrounding Areas
- Free Food & Resources
- Chesterfield, VA Free Site
- Buy Nothing Chester/Colonial Heights and Surrounding Areas
- Buy Nothing Dinwiddie and Tri-Cities
6. Shop at Dollar Stores
Although many items at Dollar Stores have increased to $1.25 or $1.75, they still offer a great way to find affordable school supplies and help you make your budget go further.
7. Attend Back-to-School Events
Many community organizations and churches hold back-to-school events, offering free or discounted school supplies and clothing. Check local event listings and community boards to make the most of these opportunities.
8. Use Coupons and Cashback Apps
Coupons and cashback apps can help you save on school supplies and clothing. Apps like Rakuten, Ibotta, and Honey offer discounts and cashback on purchases from various retailers, making it easier to save money.
9. Buy in Bulk
If you have several kids or know families in need of supplies, buying in bulk can be a smart move. Stores like Costco and Sam's Club sell school supplies in larger quantities at a lower cost per item, helping you save big.
- 901 Walmart Way, Midlothian, VA 23113 ·
- 735 Southpark Blvd, Colonial Heights, VA 23834
- 1401 Mall Dr, Bon Air, VA 23235
- 12201 Bridgewood Crossing Dr, Midlothian, VA 23112
10. Plan Ahead and Compare Prices
Planning ahead and comparing prices can help you snag the best deals. Check out price comparison websites and apps to make sure you're getting the most bang for your buck. A bit of research can save you a lot on school supplies and clothes.
These are the websites I've used to save money on back-to-school essentials:
For more back to school resources, visit the MKCC Back-to-School Zone.
