LEGOs and other building toys are popular and educational for children of all ages. From the toddler-focused Duplo series to the standard small LEGO shapes, children have been building and constructing objects from LEGOs for generations. Standard LEGO objects include different sized bricks, wheels, animals, people and special connectors.

The one drawback to LEGOs is the cost of buying new sets. Even a sizeable budget will not buy enough LEGOs for the budding architect and builder in your family. This helpful guide will give you options on how to find cheap LEGOS.

A time-tested method of finding cheap LEGOs is to buy used sets. LEGOs are study toys that are easily cleaned and disinfected, so a used set can be a great money-saving option for you. Used sets are also a way to obtain older figures and objects that are no longer available to be purchased new. You can build or expand your LEGO collection rapidly buy buying pre-loved LEGOs.

Here are some common places to find used LEGOs:

1. Online Auction sites like eBay. You can find large used LEGO lots for sale on eBay. Just factor in the shipping cost when evaluating LEGO offers to make sure you are getting a great deal.
2. Local Online For-Sale listings. Check your local Craigslist or other local sales site, for used LEGO deals. Consider posting a “wanted” ad and see what kind of offers you receive for cheap LEGOs.
3. Yard Sales. Yard sales can be an excellent way to find cheap LEGOs. Do not be afraid to bargain for the best deal!
4. Thrift Stores--Look at Salvation Army and Goodwill stores for used LEGO sets at excellent prices.
5. Friends and Family- Ask your friends and family members that have children that are past the LEGO stage to buy their LEGOs used. They may appreciate giving their well-loved LEGOs a new home.

Look for deals and specials on new LEGOs to get them cheaper. Consider buying discontinued sets for bigger discounts. Here are some places to look for cheap LEGO deals:

1. Watch the Sales & Deals page on LEGO.com to find deep discounts on LEGO sets and hard to find pieces. LEGO.com routinely offers free shipping deals for larger orders. You can also sign up for a LEGO Email Subscription that will give you special access to sales, offers and email only promotions.
2. Look for LEGO deals at Wal-Mart, Toys R US, Target and the LEGO Store for specials and deals. The best deals are usually offered around the holiday season.
3. Check online at Amazon.com, many times they offer better deals on new LEGO sets than physical stores, especially if you purchase enough to qualify for free shipping offers.
4. Look at bricklink.com for deals on LEGOs sets and special items.
5. Check out eBay for new sets.

While everyone is familiar with LEGOs, there are some alternative building toys that you may be able to find cheaper than the brand name LEGOs.

Consider the following LEGO alternatives:

1. Mega Bloks- Come in multiple sizes including ones similar to Duplo and Regular LEGO sizes.
2. Magnetic Building Sets
3. Fisher-Price TRIO sets
4. Citiblocs
5. Erector Sets
6. Imaginarium Sets
7. K’Nex Toys
8. TinkerToys
9. Lincoln Logs
10. SuperStructs
11. Techno Gears
12. Uberstix

If alternative LEGOs just won’t do, consider hosting a toy swap with your friends with children. Have everyone bring toys that they no longer want, but could be loved by a new child. Specifically mention your desire for LEGOs and see what comes up. Just be sure to take some good toys to swap, because many children (and mothers) may be hesitant to give up LEGOs for less than stellar swaps. Keep in mind the goal is to get cheap LEGOs and you will be on course for your LEGO hunting mission.