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Back to School Sales What You Need to Stockpile

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Back to school sales are already starting and typically run through most of August. I know you’re probably in full-summer mode and the LAST thing you want to think about are the back to school sales; BUT you don’t want to miss out and it is time to plan ahead.

Even as a homeschooler, who schools year-round, I get very excited about these sales. I do some serious back to school stockpiling during these the sales and you should too! Regardless of your choice of education for your child, stockpiling supplies is essential. Most public, private, charter schools and even homeschooling require the same items for each student.

Stocking Up on School Supplies Just Makes Sense

Many of the items that stores put out for the back to school sales are, what they call, loss leaders. That means they are typically losing money or not making money on those items to get you into their store; in hopes that you’ll buy other full-priced. Typically, consumers buy more than one item at any trip to a retail store. During back to school season, supplies are so in-demand that the average amount of money spent on items for their child is over $600. Can you imagine how much it would be if no discounts were offered?

I have a few tips to share with you on shopping back to school sales as well as what to you need to stockpile during them. Over the years I have been able to do a year’s worth of school shopping for our homeschool in one day! And with most public and private schools needing students to bring their own supplies, you need to know how to make the most of the back to school sales. Here are some ways to save you some moo-lah!

Back to School Sales – What You Need to Stockpile

Everyone loves back to school sales! Despite the idea that most kids don’t enjoy this time of year, they can learn to love the process of back to school shopping too. Bring them along and allow them to choose a few of their own supplies should they be in your budget….

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Stockpiling Medication a Guide to Help You

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Stockpiling medication, a guide to help you get started. What we really don’t want to do is wait until there is a panic to start this emergency reserve for medications. However, with the recent outbreaks of viruses I thought it was a good time to revisit this topic. You don’t have to be a dooms day prepper to make emergency preparations and a good stockpile of over-the-counter medications is essential.

How to stockpile medications - everything you need to know.

Stockpiling Medication Everything You Need to Know

Over the counter medications are used for various reasons in our everyday lives. In a situation where you are unable to make it to a doctor, these are great to have on-hand. Whether it’s for something urgent or just a common cold, these are great to have at all-times. Check out my list of medications that you should start stockpiling right now!

Make sure to check out my other Stockpiling Guides.

You might also want to check out my Prepping for Non-Preppers.

Why Should I Stockpile Medications?

In the event of a natural disaster (or a man-made one), you want to have access to treatment. Emergency responders may not be able to get to you as quickly as you think.

Stockpiling Medications – Storage

How should I store medications that I am stockpiling?

You want to keep your medications in a cool, dark and dry spot. A pantry or kitchen cabinet are great options. I do NOT recommend storing them in your garage.

Expiration Dates on Over the Counter Medications

When you’re stockpiling any medication, over the counter or prescription, you want be aware of the dates. Medications can lose its effectiveness overtime.

—> Pull medications from the back of shelves for later dates.<—

Where to buy medications for stockpiling?

I like to check ads for my local pharmacy. I have also had good luck buying Amazon Basic Brands. The only downside to buying medications online is that you cannot check the expiration dates.

Stock Up on Home and Natural Remedies

Should I stockpile home and natural remedies?

Honestly I would start with natural remedies, supplements and essential oils. Most last longer than medications and don’t have the side-effects.

A good rule of thumb is to have a good supply of both natural and pharmaceutical meds.

SEE: Creating a Natural Pharmacy at Home

Pain Relief Medications

Aleve

Aleve is an anti-inflammatory drug and is used to treat ailments including headaches, inflammation, joint pain and fevers.

Ibuprofen

Ibuprofen is an anti-inflammatory drug, and similar to naproxen, is used to treat pain-related ailments. There are many benefits to taking ibuprofen, but women who are pregnant should not take it.

Tylenol

Tylenol is used to reduce fevers and pain primarily. While ibuprofen isn’t safe for pregnant women, tylenol is. There are also plenty of tylenol products that are safe for children to consume.

Aspirin

Aspirin is used to reduce pain, get rid of inflammation, and can also lower the risk of heart attacks. Aspirin can also be combined with other medications to enhance the effects.

Orajel

Orajel is a topical pain reducer that is used to treat sore throats and tooth pain.

Medications Stomach-Related Issues

Pepto-Bismol

Pepto-bismol is well-known for relieving digestive issues such as nausea, gas, indigestion and heartburn.

Tums

Tums are used to relieve a sour stomach, gas and heartburn. It is also effective in reducing the symptoms of acid reflux.

Epsom Salt

Can be used internally as a laxative. It can also reduce pain that comes from sore muscles which can occur after frequent vomiting during food poisoning or stomach flu.

See more on uses for Epsom Salt here.

Alka-seltzer

Alka-seltzer is an antacid that helps reduce diarrhea, which can be dangerous if not treated quickly because it can lead to dehydration.

Durolax

Durolax is good to have on hand when there is a need for a laxative. It is highly effective in treating constipation.

Cold and Flu Treatments

NyQuil

NyQuil is a miracle medicine when you are sick and are in desperate need of sleep. Just a small dose of this will relax you, relieve symptoms and help you get the z’s you need!

DayQuil

Similar to Nyquil, it relieves cold symptoms but does not cause drowsiness. It is best to take dayquil in the morning so it will help you get through the day when you don’t have the option to rest.

Zicam

Zicam separates itself from other cold medications because in addition to relieving cold symptoms, it also reduces the length of the cold.

Theraflu

Theraflu is unique because instead of just being a liquid medicine, it is made as a hot tea. This is helpful for people who can’t stomach liquid medications, it also helps the taste!

Elderberry Syrup or Tablets

Elderberry tablets Or syrup can be used to provide fast relief from colds. This is a homeopathic option that you should take right when symptoms begin.

Cough Relief and Decongestants

Mucinex

Mucinex provides relief and helps get rid of mucus stuck in the throat and chest.

Sudafed

Sudafed is a highly-effective medicine that provides short-term relief from congestion and cold symptoms.

Robitussin

Robitussin is commonly used to provide relief from constant coughing and congestion.

Vicks Vaporub

Vicks can be used on the chest, neck and soles of the feet to relieve coughing. This also can help you get sleep when you need to rest and get over a cold quickly

Cepacol

Cepacol are throat-lozenges that are effective in soothing a sore throat and stopping a nasty cough.

Fisherman’s Friend Cough Drops

These are some of the strongest cough drops I’ve personally used but boy do they work!

Allergies

Benadryl

Benadryl is effective in treating sneezing, runny noses, watery eyes and minor allergic reactions. Be careful though, this will make you drowsy! It can be a effective sleep aid too.

Zyrtec

Zyrtec is used to treat allergies and allergic reactions. It is an antihistamine that provides relief almost instantly!

Claritin

Claritin is another great allergy-fighting medication. It is great to have on-hand when a runny nose hits!

Allegra

Another antihistamine that will help fight against allergic reactions. This has been proven to help reactions caused by bug bites.

Benadryl Gel

            Anti-itch gel is great against fighting itching caused by bug bites or rashes.

Sleep/Depression/Anxiety/Stress

Be sure to check out my post about Natural Sleep Aids.

Melatonin

Melatonin is a sleep-aid tablet that is also known to relieve anxiety while trying to fall asleep, it also helps you stay asleep throughout the night.

Dramamine

Dramamine is a life saver medicine that helps with anxiety, nausea, vomiting and motion sickness.

St. Johns Wort

St. Johns Wort tablets come from a plant. It has been said that it helps ease symptoms of depression, anxiety, sleep issues and stress.

Also See: Growing & Using St. John’s Wort

Unisom

Unisom is another sleep-aid. It can also help with symptoms of hay fever.

Natrol

Natrol otherwise known as SAMe is effective in treating depression symptoms.

Wounds/Skin Related Issues

Natural Remedies: Calendula Oil (how to make and use it).

Hydro-cortisone

Hydro-cortisone helps relieve itching and rashes. It also can help symptoms of eczema.

Clotrimazole

A cream that helps bacteria associated with yeast infections or athlete’s foot. 

Neosporin

Apply to cuts and scrapes and this will help sooth the wound and prevent it from getting infected.

Lidocaine

Lidocaine helps treat itching and minor burns. It focuses on pain receptors which allows the skin to numb to relieve pain and heal quickly.

Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe vera gel is effective in treating sun burns. It will sooth the pain and take away the horrible burning sensation!

Stockpiling Medication – Prescriptions

We can’t talk about stockpiling medication without addressing our prescription meds. It is always good to have more than a one month supply for your prescription medications. Many health insurance companies will now cover a 3 month supply. Ask your health care provider about getting a prescription like this.

When is the best time to stockpile medication?

The best answer is now. But don’t wait until people are in a panic! Medications will fly off the shelves without warning or reason. Use your common sense, only get what you really need to build your supply.

What to Stock Up on in July

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What to stock up on in July. This is my huge list of everything you’ll want to buy in the month of July. Shopping in July for your pantry, seasonal items, what’s on clearance and so much more. Let’s go shopping!

What to Stock Up on Each Month:

This stock up series or shopping by sale cycles started in November 2018. Make sure you go back and save each of the months so you can be prepared all year long.

What to buy in the month of July - stockpiling and savings.

I will be creating shopping lists for every month of the year until I have them completed. You will always know what to stock up on by each month. I strive to have the most comprehensive list for you!

Make sure to read the tips first, especially if this is your first stockpile / sale cycle shopping month!

What to Stock Up on in July

This What to Stock Up On series is so much more than a guide to groceries. I have included bigger ticket items like appliances, grills and other seasonal sale items as well. Some great deals can only be found once or twice a year.

Shopping Sale Cycles – What You Need to Know!

When it comes to stocking up in July, or really any month, it is understanding a store’s sale cycle. What is a sale cycle? I’m so glad you asked! A sale cycle is how stores generally rotate discounted items by areas of interest in a particular month. Generally the sales are retails-wide, meaning all stores will have similar items on sale. I have taken the time to do the research for you, so you’re prepared each month to shop.

What Does it Mean to Stock Up?

For me, stocking up means to “over-buy” items, that I will use all year long, while they are at the deepest discount. I’d say a supply of 3 months or more would be optimal (if your budget allows). Then you are shopping your pantry / garage / attic when you need said item/s instead of paying top dollar at the store.

How Do I Know if it is a Stock Up Price?

Well this will differ from item to item of course; especially when talking grocery vs big ticket. As a general rule I’m looking to save 50% or more for buying multiples for my stockpile.

How Can I Stockpile Without Going Broke?

No matter how great the deals are you NEVER want to put anything on a credit card; that defeats the purpose of saving money. Look for ways you can cut or reduce spending in other areas (like going out for coffee), so you can make a budget for stockpiling. Even with as little as $10 – $20 a week you can start saving up for these amazing sales.

Does Stocking Up Require Coupons?

Absolutely not! I’ll be honest, I am not a huge fan of coupons anymore (see 5 Reasons I Quit Using Coupons ). I find most of the time I’ll buy products that I don’t really use or need because I have a coupon. However if you happen to have a coupon that deepens the discount on the list, use it!
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The Stock Up in July List

Seasonal Produce on Sale in July

BBQ Items to Stock Up on in July

Watch for even deeper discounts AFTER the 4th of July (in the US that is).

  • Hamburgers
  • Hot Dogs
  • Buns
  • Steaks
  • Ribs
  • Ketchup
  • Mustard
  • Mayonnaise
  • Relishes
  • Pickles
  • Paper goods like plates, cups and napkins.
  • Charcoal

Other Grocery Items to Stock Up on in July

  • Ice Cream
  • Popsicles
  • Powdered Milk

Stock Up in July on Camping & Beach Items

  • Sunscreen
  • Bug spray
  • Camping Gear
  • Pool Items like towels, flip flops, noodles, etc will start to be discounted to make room for fall items.

School Supplies to Buy in July

Stores are gearing up for everyone going back to school so you’ll see school supply sections starting with deep discounts. I have a whole article on this topic! See: Back To School Sales.

  • Binders / Folders
  • Notebooks
  • Rulers
  • Pens, Pencils, Erasers
  • Glues
  • Staplers and Staples
  • Crayons, Markers and Colored Pencils
  • Loose leaf paper
  • Construction paper
  • Backpacks
  • Lunch Boxes

Consider buying extra to donate to local church that give supplies to kids in need. Also school supplies can make great stocking stuffers, gifts and are wonderful to include in boxes for Operation Christmas Child!

July Sales – Patriotic Items

  • Fireworks (after the 4th of July)
  • American Flag themed items

Amazon Prime Days in July

Every year Amazon has a 2-day sales event, called Amazon Prime Days. In 2019 these are set for July 15th and 16th. This is like a summer version of Black Friday! Check out the Prime Day Guide for more information!

I share deals BOTH DAYS on my Facebook Page.

So there you have it; everything to stock up on in July. I hope you are able to find these great deals in your area. And don’t forget to set a reminder for the Amazon Prime Days (great tip to start shopping for Christmas!).

What will you be shopping for in the month of July?

What to Stock Up on in May

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What to stock up on in May, everything you need to buy in the month of May. MAY IS ONE OF THE BIGGEST LISTS OF YEAR! This is my huge shopping list of sales for stocking up on groceries and other items for the month of May. May is a great month to get amazing deals on seasonal produce, medications for allergies, May holiday items, appliances, pet products and so much more. May is filled with amazing shopping deals!!!

what to stock up on in may

What Should I Buy Each Month?

A smart shopper follows sale cycles…or you can just come here each month to see my monthly lists of what to stock up on every month. Be sure to see other months I have up already: November, December, January, February, March and April

I will be continuing this series every month until I have all 12 months of sale cycle / stock up lists for you. FYI: A sale cycle is how a store rotates discounts on particular items, generally store-wide. What’s great is that most stores follow the same sale cycles; so you can use this list and multiple stores.

Why Should I Stock-up?

You want to “stock-up” on items you and your family use regularly so that you get the deepest discount on those items. Instead of shopping stores for these items every time you run out (paying top prices), you’ll be “shopping” your storage, knowing you got the best price.

10 Tips to Know Before You Stockpile!

  1. Know what you need: inventory your pantry, freezer, cupboards, etc.
  2. Have a storage plan: where will you keep your stockpile? Make use of under-bed storage!
  3. Buy what you already use – don’t experiment because it’s discounted.
  4. Make a plan, make a list and know what you’re buying!
  5. Make sure food items have a long expiration date so they won’t go bad before you can use them.
  6. Consider buying more of items that have multiple purposes.
  7. Be prepared to shop several stores.
  8. Invest in a Food Saver for bulk buying and making smaller “packages”. Also will prevent freezer burn for your meats and vegetables.
  9. Make a budget, and stick to it. DO NOT USE CREDIT CARDS!
  10. Come armed with your coupons and all sales ads. Most stores will accept competitor coupons and offer to match sale prices. Having these can save your gas and time, driving from store to store.

How do I know if it is a good stockpile price?

That can vary but I generally want 50% off or more on grocery items. Now on bigger ticket things, you may not get that deep of a discount. We want rock bottom prices so make sure you checking online, ads and doing comparisons.

The List of What to Stock Up on in May

stock up in may seasonal produce

May’s Seasonal Produce to Buy

Apricots
Artichokes
Arugula
Asparagus
Avocado
Beets
Blackberries
Blueberries
Broccoli
Cantaloupe (See: How to Grow Cantaloupe)
Cauliflower
Cherries
Carrots (See: How to Preserve Carrots)
Celery
Chard
Corn
Grapefruit
Green beans
Greens (mustard / collard)
Honeydew
Kale
Lettuce
Onions (See: Easy Pickled Onions Recipe)
Peas
Peaches
Pineapples
Potatoes (See: How to Grow Potatoes Anywhere)
Radish
Raspberries
Rhubarb
Spinach
Strawberries
Watermelon
Zucchini

May Holiday Items to Stock Up On

Mexican Food for Cinco de Mayo

cinco de mayo food sales

Cinco de Mayo is May 5th and foods for the traditional Mexican holiday will be at DEEP discounts.

Stock Up On These Items:

  • Tortillas
  • Salsa
  • Taco Seasonings
  • Margarita Mixes (check tequila too)
  • Mexican Beers like Corona and Pacifico
  • Tortillas Chips
  • Canned Refried Beans
  • Frozen Mexican Entrees
  • Shredded Cheeses (you can freeze this!)
  • Pre-made Taco and Tostada Shells
  • Nacho Cheese Sauce

Picnic and Grilling Foods for Memorial Day

memorial day sales

Stock Up on These May Items:

  • Hot Dogs
  • Bratwurst
  • Pre-Made Hamburgers (sometimes ground beef)
  • Meats to Grill
  • Buns
  • Condiments like ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise
  • BBQ Sauce
  • Relish
  • Pickles
  • Bottled Water
  • Chips
  • Dips
  • Dressings
  • Supplies to make S’mores
  • Pre-made pies (especially the all-American Apple and Cherry Pies!)
  • Charcoal

Grills, grilling tools and coolers may be on deep discounts in May too!

Paper Goods are on Sale in May too!

What to buy:

  • Paper plates / bowls / platters
  • Paper napkins
  • Disposable cups
  • Plastic forks, spoons, knives

Normally I’m not a fan or user of paper and disposable products, but they are nice to have on hand for emergencies.

Items for Graduates

What to look for:

  • Party supplies for graduation parties
  • Small kitchen items for dorms
  • Mattresses will also be on big discounts in May

Pet Products on Sale in May

May 6th – May 12th is National Pet Week!

What is on sale for pets in May?

  • Food for your pets
  • Pet toys
  • Pet housing
  • Treats
  • Vets and groomers may also have specials running

Stock Up in May on Drugstore Items

Not just in drugstores! Stock up on:

Great Cookie Sales in May Too

May 15th is National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day! Look for these items to be on sale and to stock up on in May.

  • Cookies (not just chocolate chip)
  • Items to make cookies like flour, sugar, chocolate chips, etc.
  • Pre-made cookie dough

Appliances and Household Items On Sale in May

  • Refrigerators are at their deepest discounts (Home Depot offers low price guarantees!)
  • Appliance bundles
  • Vacuums
  • Mattresses (as mentioned above)
  • Outdoor and patio furniture
  • TVs

May is Great for Off-Season Clothing

Stock up in May on winter and spring clothing items as the stores make room for summer clothes.

What to look for:

  • Rain gear
  • Winter and Spring sweaters
  • Flannels
  • Boots

Make sure to check your local thrift stores for deals too as they will need to make room for an influx of new items not sold and yard sales.

May is a time for you to MAKE Money too!

May is typically the start of yard sale / garage sale season. Start cleaning out your house and have a tag sale to make money for your stock-up items.

See How to Have the BEST Garage Sale Ever!

What are your tips for creating a stockpile? Do you shop monthly sale cycles? Share your tips in the comments below!

What to Stock Up On In April

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What to stock up on in April. The biggest and most comprehensive shopping list for stocking up on groceries and other sale cycle items for the month of April. Shopping in April can get you great deals on food, seasonal items, holiday clearance, garden items and more. It is a good shopping month!

what to stock up on in april

What to Stock Up On In April

What to Stock Up on Each Month?

The stock up series started back in November of 2018. Be sure to bookmark all the months so you can stock up on November, December, January, February and March too! I will continue the series until every month is complete; so you’ll always have a guide. With my lists, you will ALWAYS know the best things to stock up on every month of the year!

This is more than a month to month guide to grocery sales! I always include the sales for bigger ticket items, things on sale during a particular season and what will be on the biggest clearance during the month.

Shopping Sale Cycles

The key to stocking up in April, or any month is shopping the store’s sale cycle. So what is a sale cycle? A sale cycles are how store rotate discounts of particular items being on sale, generally store-wide; and most store adhere to this same cycle. My “job” is to take the guess work out of researching those sales; just come here every month and get your list of monthly stock up suggestions and tips.

What Is a Stock Up?

Everyone has the own definition of “stocking up”. But basically this is making a plan to overbuy items that are on sale (in cycles) that will supply your household for 3 or more months. This way you don’t but at the exact time you need an item, for top price. It does take some time to learn how much to buy to last; but the longer you do it the more routine it will be for you.

What Price is Good for Stocking Up on Sales?

A good price for stocking up on an item/s is going to depending greatly on the item itself. But for general purposes, I want to get at least 50% off a product to buy multiples for my pantry, etc.

How do I stockpile when I’m broke?

If you have a limited budget stocking up on anything feels very difficult. You should absolutely NEVER go into credit card debt to buy sales items, that defeats the purpose. Look for items you can cut out or reduce in your budget while you get started stockpiling. Are you buying coffee through a drive-thru everyday? That’s probably costing $80 – $100 a month! Make coffee and home and use that money to build your stockpile. Even with as little as $10 a week you can start saving up for sale cycles.

Do I need coupons to stockpile?

No, but they can make your savings greater. I am not a big coupon person because I think they give us a sense of buying cheaper when items are really at their top price (plus buying stuff you never really use). You can see more about my thoughts on coupons here:
5 Reasons I Quit Using Coupons.

If you can get a coupon that works with the sales during a particular month, go for it!

The Stock Up in April List

Gardening Supplies and Plants

Spring has sprung and April is the best to to stock up on and get the best price on gardening supplies and plants.

Shop for:

Earth Day

Earth Day is in April every year. According to Wikipedia, Earth Day is “an annual event celebrated on April 22. Worldwide, various events are held to demonstrate support for environmental protection. First celebrated in 1970, Earth Day now includes events in more than 193 countries, which are now coordinated globally by the Earth Day Network“.

Shop for: (think green & sustainable)

  • Foods that are labeled natural and organic
  • Reusable bags
  • Reusable water / drinking bottles
  • LED / CFL lighting
  • Appliances labeled Energy Star – so April is a great time to shop for new appliances.

Stock Up in April – Seasonal & Holiday Items

Easter is in the month of April in 2019 so make sure to shop very close to or the day after to get the best deals on Easter items.

Shop For:

  • Baskets and basket fillers like plastic eggs, stuffed animals, etc
  • Egg dying kits
  • Candies (just be sure to check the freshness date)
  • Home decorating or home decor items like hand towels with an Easter theme, wall hangings and knick knacks.

Groceries and Produce

April is National Soft Pretzel month! And both Passover and Easter take place in April. Be sure to look at the seasonal fruit and vegetables this month as well; most can be frozen or canned for later use.

Shop For:

  • Frozen soft pretzels to make at home.
  • Hams (traditional Easter Food for many)
  • Eggs (Easter egg dying)
  • Pre-packaged Kosher / Passover foods like matzos
  • Baking items for holidays like sugar, spices, baking mixes and even pre-made refrigerator dough
  • Seasonal Fruits – like apples, avocados, grapefruit, oranges, pears, pineapple, strawberries and tangerines
  • Seasonal Vegetables – like artichokes, asparagus, beets, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, green beans, Lima beans, mushrooms, onions, peas and rhubarb.

Stock Up on Cleaning Supplies

If you haven’t already, you may be planning to do your Spring cleaning in April! Stores are often still offering great deals for this!

Shop For:

  • Cleaners
  • Cleaning gear like brooms, dusters, mops, vacuums, etc

Vacations

Most travelers are looking at booking summer vacations but April can be a great month to get deals!

Shop For:

  • Cruises
  • Airfare
  • Hotels

What to Stock Up On in April – Clothing

  • Any remaining winter items
  • Rain boots and other “Spring Showers” gear

Beauty & Personal Care

  • Facial cleansers
  • Body wash
  • Moisturizer

See: Safer Skin Care & Make-Up

Other April Deals to Consider

  • Tax Day Discounts – restaurants and stores often offer special savings on April 15th
  • Sewing Supplies
  • Home Improvement – check your big box stores!
  • The start of Mother’s Days Sales

Did I miss something that you stock up on in April for a great deal? Tell me in the comment section below!

Is there anything I forgot to add to my list? If you think of something please leave me a comment below.

See Food Storage Mom’s Stockpile Motto