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
- 6202 W Broad St, Richmond, VA 23230
- 7101A Forest Hill Ave, Richmond, VA 23225
- 8018 W Broad St, Richmond, VA 23294
- 3979 Gay Ave, Henrico, VA 23231
- 7147 Brandy Run Dr, Mechanicsville, VA 23111
- 1650 St Matthews Ln, Richmond, VA 23233
- 4200 Tom Leonard Dr, Glen Allen, VA 23060
Plato's Closet
- 9691 W Broad St, Richmond, Va 23060
- 7336 Bell Creek Rd, Mechanicsville, VA 23111
Once Upon A Child
- 9015 W Broad St, Richmond, VA 23294
Kid-to-Kid
- 7230 Bell Creek Rd Ste E, Mechanicsville, VA 23111
- 11740 W Broad St Ste 105, Richmond, VA 23233
- 49 W Williamsburg Rd, Sandston, VA 23150
- 11260 Patterson Ave, Henrico, VA 23238 (Tuckahoe Village Shopping Center)
- 3024 W Cary St, Richmond, VA 23221
The Clothesline - Children’s Fall Sale (September 17 – 20, 2025)
- 9200 Stony Point Pkwy, Richmond, VA 23235
RVA Everything Kids Consignment- Cold Weather + Back-to-School Sale (August 20 – 26, 2025)
- 1706 Bellevue Avenue, Richmond, VA 23227
RVA Kids Consignment- Fall Sale (October 9 – 11, 2025)
- 5000 Pouncey Tract Road, Glen Allen, VA 23059
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
- Buy Nothing Northside/Lakeside
- Buy Nothing Elmont Area
- Buy Nothing Richmond/Henrico
- Buy Nothing Henrico
- Buy Nothing Beaverdam/Montpelier
- Buy Nothing Goochland County (Central) VA
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.
- 9440 W Broad St, Richmond, VA 23294
- 9650 W Broad St, Glen Allen, VA 23060
- 1320 Starling Dr, Richmond, VA 23229
- 7260 Bell Creek Rd, Mechanicsville, VA 23111
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 MKR Back-to-school zone.
