10 Tips For Back To School Shopping
We are reaching the end of summer and you know what that means? Back to School is right around the corner.
With so many things being crazy expensive these days, back to school shopping can be quite a challenge for many of us. So, we wanted to share our 10 tips for saving money and getting prepared for your shopping. Whether you’re a parent, a student, or even a teacher, these tips will help you keep your budget in check while ensuring you have everything you need for the new school year.
Tip 1: Start with a Budget
A budget helps you understand how much you can afford to spend. A good start is calculating your total income and expenses to determine how much you can allocate for school supplies. It’s a good idea to break your budget down into specific categories including supplies, clothing, and technology and any other necessities that may be needed for school. This helps you see exactly where your money is going and having a clear budget helps prevent overspending and keeps you focused on your goals.
Tip 2: Make a List and Stick to It
Schools often provide supply lists, and this is a great place to start as your guide. Write down everything you need before you go shopping. A list like this helps you avoid impulse purchases, which can quickly add up without you even realizing it. It also ensures you don’t forget any essentials, which in turn can save you from last-minute shopping trips that could bust your budget that you worked so hard on.
Tip 3: Shop Your Home First
Before you buy anything, check your home for leftover supplies from last year. You might find notebooks, pens, and any manner of things that you can reuse. This is a great way to save money and you’re actually also reducing waste. Plus, it will give you a better idea of what you actually need to buy.
Tip 4: Take Advantage of Sales and Coupons
Back-to-school sales often start early and many stores will offer significant discounts. Look for sales in-store and also look online. Consider signing up for email newsletters from your favorite stores so you can get alerts about upcoming sales and coupons. If you are on social media, there are couponing groups or perhaps even parenting groups that often will share discounts or coupons that are available. Use your resources!
Tip 5: Compare Prices Online
Again, use your resources. Look for price comparison tools and apps that can help you ensure you’re getting the best deal. Many retailers, especially online, will offer price matching, so if you find a lower price somewhere else, don’t be afraid to ask for a match. This can save you a lot of money, especially on big-ticket items like electronics.
Tip 6: Buy in Bulk
Buying bulk for things like pens, pencils, and notebooks or even paper can lead to some pretty significant savings, especially for items that your kids will need throughout the school year. Just make sure you store the extras in a safe place so they don’t get lost or damaged and so you can find them! This way, you won’t have to repurchase these items mid-year.
If you have friends or you know your kids schoolmates, consider purchasing in bulk for a group and splitting the costs as well as the items. It helps you buy larger amounts and it helps the entire group get better prices.
Tip 7: Use Cashback and Rewards Programs
Check credit cards or apps that offer cashback for purchases. This could add up pretty quickly during back-to-school shopping. Also, check for loyalty programs, especially at your favorite stores that you know you will frequent. Even if it’s a program that allows you to earn points on your purchases that can be redeemed for future discounts. That’s still saving you money.
Tip 8: Consider Refurbished Tech
If your child needs a new laptop or tablet, refurbished items can be a great way to save money without sacrificing quality. You want to make sure you buy from reputable retailers and of course, check the warranty and return policies before you purchase. This will make sure you you’re covered in case there are any issues. But refurbs really are a great way to save.
Tip 9: Shop Second-Hand
This can be really great for clothes. Kids grow so fast that the second-hand clothes are truly what we call gently used. They barely had time for anything else before they outgrew them! And it’s the same for so many kids, that those second-hand items may not last long at your house either. So, you can pass them on to another family. It’s a great way to save money and again, not waste.
This could be good for some supplies as well. Thrift stores, consignment shops, and online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace can offer great deals. You never know, this may also be a way to find some really unique items that you kids will love.
Tip: If you do purchase from somewhere other than a retailer, please be sure you are safe when you make exchanges or purchases. Local police stations are often a great place to meet to make a transaction.
Tip 10: Plan for Future Needs
Consider stocking up on supplies when they’re on sale, even if you don’t need them immediately. Especially for things you know you will need later in the school year. This way, you won’t have to pay full price later on.
We hope these tips help you navigate the back-to-school shopping season with ease and confidence. Remember, it’s all about planning ahead, shopping smart, and making the most of the resources available to you.
Bonus Tip!
Get your kids involved in the process. Let them help with making the shopping list, searching for deals, and even some of the shopping itself. Not only have you created valuable lessons about budgeting and money management, but it also helps them appreciate the effort and cost involved in getting ready for school.
Kids are more likely to take care of their supplies if they’ve had a hand in choosing them. Not to mention, it can also be a fun bonding activity for the whole family.
It makes back-to-school a potentially stressful task an enjoyable experience.
All of us here at First Pioneers are wishing you all a great school year!