The savvy parent’s guide to saving on LEGO sets and experiences

LEGO sets have captured the hearts and imaginations of children and adults alike for decades. However, with the average price of a LEGO set reaching $61.53 in 2023, and some premium themes averaging $177.70 per set, building your LEGO collection can quickly become an expensive hobby. For parents and LEGO enthusiasts looking to balance their love for these colorful bricks with budgetary constraints, finding ways to save money on LEGO purchases is crucial.

This comprehensive guide will explore various strategies to help you save on LEGO sets and experiences. From maximizing the benefits of the LEGO VIP program to finding the best LEGO deals online and in-store, we'll cover methods that allow you to enjoy the world of LEGO without breaking the bank.

Understanding LEGO pricing and value

To become a savvy LEGO shopper, it's essential to understand how LEGO sets are priced and what determines their value:

1. MSRP vs. Actual retail prices: LEGO sets a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for each product, but the price you actually pay can vary significantly. Many retailers offer LEGO sets at prices well below MSRP.

2. Price per piece: This metric is calculated by dividing the set's price by the number of pieces it contains. While useful for quick comparisons, it has limitations and doesn't account for factors like piece size, complexity, or licensing costs.

3. Part-out value: This represents the total worth of a set's individual pieces if sold separately. A set with a part-out value 2.5-3 times its retail price is generally considered good for resale.

4. Factors affecting LEGO set prices:

   • Manufacturing costs

   • Design and development

   • Licensing fees

   • Packaging and instructions

   • Marketing and distribution costs

   • Brand value

   • Market demand and set popularity

5. LEGO price increases and inflation: LEGO has implemented price increases in recent years, citing rising costs and inflation. The company appears to absorb inflation effects up to 6-7% before increasing prices.

Strategies for saving on LEGO sets

1. Maximize LEGO VIP program benefits

The LEGO Insiders (previously called LEGO VIP program) is a free loyalty program that offers several benefits:

• Points system: Earn 7.5 points for every $1 spent, equivalent to a 5% discount on future purchases.

• Exclusive rewards: Redeem points for exclusive sets, merchandise, and digital content.

• Early access: Get first dibs on new LEGO set releases.

• Special promotions: Take advantage of double VIP points events and VIP-only sales.

• Free gifts: Receive exclusive gifts with purchase (GWPs) during certain promotions.

To maximize your VIP benefits:

• Time large purchases during double points events

• Save points for high-value exclusive rewards

• Take advantage of VIP-only sales and early access opportunities

2. Shop seasonal sales and promotions

LEGO runs several major sales events throughout the year:

• Black Friday/Cyber Monday (November)

• Boxing Day/After Christmas (December 26-31)

• May the 4th Star Wars promotion (May 4)

• Bricktober (October)

• Seasonal holiday sales (Christmas, Easter, etc.)

Additionally, LEGO typically offers monthly promotions and GWPs. Following LEGO fan sites like Brickfanatics can help you stay informed about upcoming LEGO sales and promotions.

For more tips on finding the best seasonal deals, not just for LEGO but for all your shopping needs, check out our guide to seasonal shopping.

3. Utilize LEGO coupons and cashback

While LEGO rarely offers coupon codes for their own site, you can find codes for other retailers that sell LEGO:

• Use browser extensions like SimplyCodes to automatically apply available LEGO coupon codes at checkout.

• Check cashback sites like Rakuten or TopCashback for additional savings on LEGO purchases from various retailers.

• Some credit cards offer bonus cashback for online shopping or specific retailers.

4. Use LEGO price comparison tools

To ensure you're getting the best price on LEGO sets:

• Use LEGO price comparison sites like Brickset or BrickHound to track prices across multiple retailers.

• Set up price alerts on Amazon or other sites to be notified when prices drop on specific LEGO sets.

• Check clearance sections of major retailers like Walmart, Target, and Amazon for discounted LEGO sets.

5. Consider buying used LEGO

Purchasing used LEGO can offer substantial savings:

Pros:

• Much lower prices, often 30-50% off retail or more

• Ability to find retired sets no longer available new

• Environmentally friendly option

Cons:

• Risk of missing pieces

• Potential for wear, discoloration, or damage

• No warranty or customer support from LEGO

Tips for buying used LEGO:

• Check seller ratings and reviews carefully

• Ask for detailed photos and piece counts

• Use sites like BrickLink for individual parts if sets are incomplete

6. Explore alternative retailers and marketplaces

While LEGO.com offers exclusives and VIP benefits, other retailers often have competitive prices and sales:

• Major retailers: Walmart, Target, Amazon, Barnes & Noble

• Toy stores: Toys R Us, independent toy shops

• Warehouse clubs: Costco, Sam's Club

• Online marketplaces: eBay, Facebook Marketplace, Mercari

Tips:

• Check store loyalty programs for additional savings

• Look for bundle deals, especially during holiday seasons

• Consider "damaged box" discounts for unopened sets with minor packaging issues

When shopping at major retailers like Walmart, Target, or Amazon for LEGO sets, check SimplyCodes' dedicated store pages for up-to-date coupons and promo codes.

Saving on LEGO experiences

While building with LEGO at home is enjoyable, LEGO experiences like theme parks and discovery centers can add an extra dimension of fun. Here are ways to save on LEGO experiences:

1. LEGOLAND and LEGO Discovery Center Discounts:

   • AAA membership discounts

   • Online ticket purchases

   • Multi-day passes

   • Seasonal promotions

2. Free LEGO Events and Workshops:

   • In-store build events

   • Creativity workshops

   • Online workshops

3. LEGO Life Magazine and Free Resources:

   • Free LEGO Life Magazine for children aged 5-9

   • LEGO Play Unstoppable online resources

   • LEGO Insiders Program exclusive rewards and perks

Before booking your LEGO experience, be sure to check our travel deals and discounts page for potential savings on tickets and accommodations.

Budget-friendly LEGO alternatives

If you're looking for more affordable building block options, consider these alternatives:

1. LEGO Classic Boxes: These sets focus on basic bricks for open-ended building and are more cost-effective than themed sets.

2. Non-LEGO Building Block Options:

   • Banbao

   • Cobi

   • Wange

   • Nanoblock

3. DIY LEGO-Inspired Activities:

   • LEGO printing

   • LEGO math activities

   • LEGO marble run

   • LEGO desk organizer

By combining these alternatives with traditional LEGO sets, you can provide a rich building block experience at a fraction of the cost.

Long-term strategies for LEGO collectors

For serious LEGO enthusiasts, consider these long-term strategies:

1. Investing in LEGO: Some sets appreciate significantly in value over time. Look for limited editions, retiring sets, and popular themes.

2. Storage and Organization: Proper storage is crucial to maintain the value of your LEGO investments. Keep sets sealed, store in a cool, dry place, and preserve boxes and instructions.

3. Selling or Trading Unwanted Sets: When it's time to sell, research current market values, choose the right platform, and provide detailed descriptions and photos.

Conclusion

By implementing these strategies and maintaining a balanced approach, you can fully enjoy the world of LEGO while being financially responsible. Remember, the ultimate goal is to have fun, learn, and create – and that doesn't always require the newest or most expensive sets.

For more money-saving tips and deals on LEGO and other products, be sure to check out SimplyCodes regularly. Happy building!