Heading back to school can be fun, but let’s face it: it can also take a heavy toll on your finances. Buying clothes, school supplies and sometimes electronics can take a toll on your wallet if you’re not cautious.
Thankfully, there are ways to reduce those expenses and simplify the process without compromising on quality. We chatted with a few experienced parents to bring you a simple list of tips to trim your back-to-school spending without cutting corners. Let’s take a look.
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock.
Plan ahead & budget smart
Start by making a list of everything your child needs and setting a budget. It’s so easy to go overboard when shopping for school supplies and clothes. But if you take a little time to plan your purchases and set a spending limit, it’s easier to control those impulse buys. The more you plan, the more money you save.
Shop during tax-free holidays
Did you know some states have tax-free shopping holidays before school starts? This allows you to purchase school supplies, clothes, and sometimes even electronics without paying any sales tax. That’s a sweet deal if you can time your shopping right.
Compare prices & use price match guarantees
It pays to comparison shop. Double check that the “sale” price you see advertised is truly a good deal by shopping around and price matching. Many big retailers will even match a competitor’s lower price if you ask. It doesn’t take long to research prices online.
Mix in-store and online shopping
Some of the best bargains are online, while others pop up in the store. Consider combining both; order some things for pickup to save on shipping, then grab doorbuster deals in person. That way you get the best of both worlds.
Use apps, coupons & rewards
Deal-finding apps and store loyalty programs are your best friends during back-to-school season. Clip digital coupons, sign up for rewards, and don’t forget about cashback credit cards. These little extras stack up to real savings.
Shop secondhand or swap community items
Backpacks, uniforms, lunchboxes, calculators, binders, etc. are all items you can get gently used. Think thrift stores and online marketplaces or community swap or trade events with other parents at your school or children’s community groups. Try sharing or swapping to cut down on waste and save some money.
Use student or educator discounts
Flash a school ID or educator badge and you might unlock hidden savings. Tech stores, clothing retailers, and even some bookstores offer special discounts. It’s worth asking every time; you’d be surprised where it applies.
Buy store-brand alternatives
Switching to generic or store-brand products is another way to cut costs. Not everything on your list has to be name brand. Store brand pencils, paper, notebooks, etc., are usually just as good as national brands. If you can switch even a few items to store brand, you could see your bill drop considerably.
Shop early or wait for clearance
If you shop early, you’ll get the best selection and avoid the last-minute scramble. On the flip side, waiting until after school starts often means deep clearance prices. Both strategies work. It just depends on whether you want variety or big savings.
Take inventory before buying
Before hitting the stores, check your drawers and closets. You might already have leftover notebooks, scissors, or markers from last year. Starting with what you own prevents spending on duplicates.
Like our content? Be sure to follow us.
