Office Max and Staples: Free Backpacks

Good news if you or your kids need new back-to-school backpacks this year! Both Staples and Office Max are offering free backpacks this week.

First, Staples is offering a free backpack per household after a Staples gift card.  All backpacks, regardless of price, are included and laptop bags count too!  To confirm that the bag is participating, you should see a note next to the item that says, “Special Buy. It’s like getting a backpack for free.”  This offer is available in-store, online, and by phone.  Shipping is free on orders over $50. You’ll pay full price out-of-pocket for the bag, but after submitting an Easy Rebate form, you’ll receive the full purchase price back in the form of a Staples gift card.

Next, Office Max is offering its MaxPerks members up to 2 backpacks free after MaxPerks Rewards.  (MaxPerks is a rewards programs for teachers and business owners.)  Backpacks of all prices are participating in the sale, as are laptop bags.  Look for the note that says, “Earn 100% in MaxPerks Bonus Rewards”. This offer is available in-store and online, and like Staples, shipping is free on orders over $50. You’ll still pay for the two backpacks, but in September or October, you’ll receive the purchase amount back in MaxPerks Rewards. These Rewards can be used very much like a gift card, with some exclusions.

And if you shop online for either of these backpack deals, be sure to shop through Ebates or ShopAtHome. SAH is offering 3% cash back on Staples purchases, while Ebates is offering 2%. Ebates is giving 3% back for OfficeMax, and SAH is giving 4%.  Plus, when you sign up and make a purchase with either, you’ll receive a $5 cash bonus!

Many churches and non-profits in my community also collect backpacks for kids in need this time of year, as I’m sure they do in yours.  These free backpacks could be great donations!

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