As the summer heat begins to wane, the back-to-school season is already upon us.
Preparing for a new school year is an exciting time, filled with anticipation of new things to learn, as well as new teachers and friends to meet!
However, for many families, it can also be a time of financial stress as expenses on school supplies, clothes, and extracurricular activities start to pile up.
But fear not – with some planning, research, and a little bit of creativity, it’s possible to stay within a budget while making sure the children are well-prepared for the upcoming school year.
Here are 30 ways to save money this back-to-school season:
Plan ahead: Avoid last-minute stress shopping and extra expenses by planning ahead. Prepare a list of items your child needs and stick to it.
Budget wisely: Set a budget for your back-to-school shopping and try not to deviate from it. Separate necessities from luxury items, and prioritize the former.
Reuse and recycle: Before you shop, assess what you already have at home. Items like backpacks, lunchboxes, and stationery can often be reused.
Buy in bulk: Purchase items that your child uses frequently, such as notebooks, pens, and pencils, in bulk. This will save you money in the long run. Dollar Tree is a great place to find items in bulk.
Take advantage of sales and discounts: Many stores offer back-to-school sales. Follow your favorite stores on social media or sign up for their newsletters to stay updated on deals.
Leverage Tax-free weekends: Some states offer tax-free shopping days for back-to-school items. Make sure to check your state’s policies.
Buy durable items: Invest in quality items that will last throughout the year. It might seem more expensive upfront, but it could save you money over time.
Online Shopping: Utilize online shopping for price comparisons, reviews, and often better deals. Walmart offers a lot of $1 and under back to school deals.
Use cash back apps: Apps like Rakuten or Swagbucks offer cashback on purchases, helping you save extra.
DIY school supplies: Customize and make your own school supplies. It’s fun, creative, and saves money.
Shop off-season: Shopping for clothes during off-peak seasons can save a substantial amount of money.
Swap with friends: Organize a swap party where parents can exchange clothes and supplies that their children no longer need.
Opt for plain supplies: Plain notebooks and folders are typically cheaper than ones with licensed characters or brands.
Check out thrift stores: Many thrift stores have good quality clothes and school supplies at discounted prices.
Best Places to Snag Second Hand Back to School Clothes
Cutting Costs on Back to School Clothes
Use student discounts: Some stores offer student discounts, so don’t forget to ask! Try Amazon Prime Student for discounts.
Share costs: If you have multiple children, consider items that can be shared, like calculators or textbooks.
Don’t buy everything at once: Spread out purchases to lessen the financial burden.
Choose multipurpose items: Buy items that serve multiple functions. For instance, a laptop can also serve as a calculator and notebook.
Leverage library resources: From books to online resources, your local library is a wealth of free resources.
8 Library Freebies to Take Advantage Of
Skip trendy items: Trends change fast. Stick with classic, timeless pieces to get more bang for your buck.
Rent instead of buying: Consider renting textbooks or musical instruments instead of buying.
Pack lunches: Preparing your child’s lunch at home is not only healthier but also cheaper than buying school meals.
Teach kids about budgeting: Use this season as an opportunity to teach your kids about budgeting and the value of money.
Consider refurbished electronics: When buying electronics, consider purchasing refurbished items. They are often significantly cheaper.
Participate in school swap meets: Some schools organize swap meets where you can exchange items with other parents.
Shop at dollar stores: Dollar stores often have a great selection of school supplies at lower prices.
Maintain supplies: Teach your child to take good care of their supplies to increase their lifespan.
Participate in group deals: Websites like Groupon offer deals on school supplies and clothes.
Utilize your credit card rewards or other rewards: If your credit card offers cashback or rewards on purchases, this is a great time to take advantage of that. This is a great time to cash out on your Fetch or Ibotta rewards and put the earnings towards back to school costs.
Consider public transport or carpooling: Save on fuel costs and reduce carbon footprint by opting for public transport or carpooling to school.
Back-to-school shopping doesn’t have to break the bank.
With these tips, you’ll be able to start the school year off right without straining your budget.
The goal isn’t to have the newest or most expensive items, but to ensure your children are equipped with what they need to have a successful and productive school year.
Happy shopping!
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to start back-to-school shopping?
Ideally, you should start early. The back-to-school season often begins in late July or early August. Starting early allows you to spread out purchases and take advantage of early bird sales.
How do I know if my state has a tax-free weekend for back-to-school shopping?
Check your state’s Department of Revenue website or a reputable news source for this information. The dates and applicable items vary by state.
What is the advantage of buying in bulk?
Buying in bulk is usually cheaper per unit, so for items that your child uses often, like notebooks or pens, it can save you money in the long run.
What items should I prioritize when back-to-school shopping?
Prioritize essential items such as textbooks, notebooks, writing tools, and any specific materials mentioned in the school’s supply list. Additional items like decorative stationery or high-end electronics should only be considered if your budget allows.
Where can I find student discounts?
Many retailers offer student discounts. Ask in-store or check the retailer’s website. Try Amazon’s Prime Student for discounts, too!
Are there advantages to shopping online versus in-store for school supplies?
Shopping online allows for easy price comparison, access to reviews, and sometimes better deals or free shipping. However, shopping in-store lets you physically inspect the items before purchase. Both have their advantages, and what works best may depend on the specific item and your personal preference.
What are some tips for maintaining school supplies?
Encourage your child to take care of their items. This includes properly capping pens to prevent them from drying out, using pencil cases to prevent breakage, and regularly cleaning out backpacks to prevent lost or damaged items.
Is it possible to save money on school uniforms?
Consider purchasing uniform items secondhand, or through swap meets. Some schools also have uniform recycling programs. Additionally, purchasing items that are machine washable and durable can save you money in the long term.
The key to saving money during the back-to-school season is planning, budgeting, and spending wisely.
Be proactive, stay organized, and let the savings begin!