Alternatives to Back-to-School Shopping

It's already that time of year... parents and students begin to prepare for the big back to school rush at the end of summer. However, with these back to school offers, come somewhat unfriendly prices at times. However, there are many ways we don't always think of in regards to saving time and money.

Dollar Stores

I am, flat out, a dollar store junkie when it comes to shopping. When it comes to getting school supplies, it can't be beat often. Especially when more expensive stores around tend to run out of supplies quickly and don't always offer rainchecks. However, there isn't one time of year that the dollar stores don't have ample supplies. By supplies I don't mean clothing, since many dollar stores have a limited supply of clothing and even some don't offer clothes at all. But, should someone in your family require notebooks, pens, pencils, crayons and other back to school supplies, sometimes, the best places to go are dollar stores.

First, cast off the whole idea that dollar stores are just generic supplies. Recently, Shrek 3 came to theatres and dollar stores were supplied with ample folders and other school supplies with Shrek right on them. Sure, some people find these "tacky" and prefer solid colors, but, rest assured. Dollar stores are always loaded with general colors that won't distract from learning. One downfall, though, is finding college ruled paper can be a tad tricky in general, but especially moreso at dollar stores. Be sure if you're looking for notebooks at these places that you make sure 100% what ruling you need. I don't know why, personally, but some teachers get downright hostile and send home letters to parents to re-acquire notebooks if the ruling is wrong.