Cutting costs on classroom essentials: Where Walmart, Amazon offer markdowns

WASHINGTON ( DC News Now ) — As students head back to class, parents are left with purchasing classroom essentials.

But with expenses going into the hundreds of dollars for many, consumers may look for ways to cut costs.

Among several options: Amazon’s wide selection of back-to-school essentials for online consumers, and large in-person retailers like Walmart are hoping people browse their offers.

However, both stores offer lesser-known avenues that can keep even more cash in your wallet.

Households are expected to spend $875 for back-to-school items, including on technology and clothes – that’s $206 more than 10 years ago, according to the National Retail Federation.

“Parents expect they’re going to spend an average of $231 per child on new clothes for back-to-school,” said Corie Wagner, a senior industry analyst at Savings.com.

It’s those pricing estimates that may lead some to thrift stores such as some we’ve chronicled on DC News Now.

But for supplies, retailers like Walmart and Amazon are still promoting classroom essentials. For elementary school students, this often includes backpacks, pencils, crayons, folders and rulers.

Both Walmart and Amazon have free trials for their subscription services — Walmart+ and Amazon Prime. Free delivery is the biggest perk offered by those programs.

But it’s their discount offers that truly show savings opportunities: Walmart offers their clearance section online, and Amazon Resale promotes discounts on items that are labeled “quality pre-owned, used, and open box products.”

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC.