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9 Money-Saving Hacks for Back-To-School Shopping
9 Money-Saving Hacks for Back-To-School Shopping
As summer draws to an end and families prepare for a new school year, many are feeling the financial squeeze.
With economic factors like inflation driving up prices across the country, back-to-school costs are expected to follow suit.
Nearly three-quarters (72%) of parents say back-to-school essentials cost more than they did last year, and six in 10 say their children are asking for extra, nonessential items beyond the required school supply list. Those added expenses can make it even more important to shop strategically and stick to a budget.
With those figures in mind, here are nine ways you can save a dime or two.
1. Inventory first
Before shopping for school supplies, take stock of what you have at home. See if you can repurpose some supplies from previous years. You may find leftover packs of pencils, erasers, or unused notepads.
2. Shop clearances and sales
We always recommend supporting your local small businesses, so we suggest shopping local to start. If you can’t find what you’re looking for locally, many retail chains offer weekly clearance deals, especially during back-to-school season. Big-box stores have an abundance of supplies, but don’t forget about dollar stores, where you can save even more. Make sure you sign up for free loyalty and reward programs, which can save you money on other purchases down the road.
3. Coupons
Don’t forget about couponing! Many retailers publish coupons in the local newspaper and online to help you save more. Some retailers even allow you to use more than one coupon code.
4. Hand-me-downs
Similar to “shopping your closet,” you might uncover some treasures. If you have friends, family members, neighbors, or coworkers offering hand-me-downs, take advantage!
5. Thrift stores and online secondhand options
Online marketplaces let you browse a relevance-sorted feed of items to buy from people who live nearby, while local thrift stores are another great option to consider for saving on school supplies.
6. Go online
The selection of items may be better online than in stores, and shipping may be free if you have a store account or meet a minimum spend. Look for product or shipping deals to take advantage of, and make sure your items arrive before the school year starts.
7. Split bulk deals
Scoring bulk deals on school supplies is another great way to save money, especially if you find other parents willing to split the expense. If buying in bulk means major savings, why not consider shopping with other parents?
8. Think ahead
For many back-to-school shoppers, it can be difficult to think ahead to winter when you’re sweating in the summer heat. But you may be able to save up to 70% when you shop ahead of the season. You can shop for winter clothes in February and stock up on summer gear in September.
The same goes for sporting equipment and even seasonal shoes. Buying sandals in February might lead to the cashier giving you a weird look, but it will save you money in the coming summer. Also, consider buying two different sizes for your children. That way, you can avoid another shopping spree when your kids have a growth spurt in the middle of the school year.
9. Price match
Make sure you read up on the store’s price-match policy. Certain stores allow you to purchase an item at another store’s discounted price.
Additionally, think about stocking up during sales or buying in bulk for essentials such as notebooks and writing tools.
Finally, don’t get caught up in buying the newest, coolest thing. Items like instruments, sporting equipment, and backpacks can be stretched for more than one year.
When is the right time to shop?
Back-to-school sales usually start in July and run through late August to early September. Many retailers have discounts year-round, so you can always find bargains, especially if you look hard enough.
From first grade to college grad, we have a banking account to fit your student’s financial needs. Open one online today.
