Back to school can be an expensive time of year. From pencils and pens to new backpacks to new sneakers, the necessary purchases can add up fast! A 10-pack of pencils might not seem like a big cost, but paired with countless other purchases, that pack of pencils can really add up. Although some costs are unavoidable, you can still find the best deal on the market. Follow these tips below to save some serious money this August and be ready to send the kids back to school in style.
Back to school shopping doesn’t have to break the bank. Follow the tips below to learn how to save money on back to school shopping!
Back to school shopping is a necessity. The list seems to always grow and add up, and all those little costs add up to one large bill. But there are ways to save money and still give your children the best clothes and supplies! Read on to learn some tips that can save you a large amount of money each August.
Do a Supply Sweep
Before you do anything at all, first go through your house and find all the supplies you might have laying around. You might have a fresh box of black pens that is shoved in the bottom of the desk drawer that you have forgotten about. Or maybe you have binders just sitting around collecting dust. Before making any purchases, take inventory of what you have and then make a list of what you absolutely need to buy.
Shop End-of-Summer Sales
If you can, wait until the last possible day to do the bulk of your shopping before school starts. If your child is in need of new clothes or shoes, the best time to shop is the end of summer, when the best sales are happening.
Stick to the List
Those sparkly erasers might be tempting, but they are not a necessity, and those purchases will add up quickly. Make a list in advance and stick to it. Avoid trendy items that might be “out” in the next six months. The trendier the item, the faster your child will change their mind and decide they don’t like it anymore. You can never go wrong with the classics.
Shop on Tax-Free Weekend
Tax Free Weekend is August 10th-12th in Texas. On this weekend, school supplies and children’s clothes and shoes will all be tax-free. Try to wait until this weekend to shop and plan to get as much as you can while taxes are cut!
Follow Retailers on Social Media
Follow all of your favorite stores on social media! Many stores, especially smaller, non-chain stores, will post about exclusive sales and deals on their social media channels. Stay up to date on the best deals this back to school season by following the best stores on social media.
Always Do Research
Never forget to look up items online to make sure you are getting the best deal. Some stores like Best Buy will price match, so always look online! Additionally, no matter what store, always check online for coupons. Michaels Craft Store, for example, almost always has coupons online that can save you a lot – you just need to check!
Label EVERYTHING!
As soon as all the back to school shopping is complete, label everything with your child’s name, from rulers to lunch boxes. This will save you money in the long run, and hopefully prevent your children from losing their school supplies!
