As summer vacation starts to wind down, back-to-school shopping season ramps up. If you have a child going off to school this year, it is a good idea to budget for those extra shopping expenses. Let Bethpage help you navigate the second-largest shopping season of the year with your budget intact. Read on for four ways to save on back-to-school shopping.
1) Do a house-wide sweep
Before you spend money on new supplies or clothing, check your closets and drawers to see what you have around the house. Round up all the supplies you find, and take inventory. Keep the list handy, so you don’t forget what you already have and end up buying unnecessary items.
While you go through your children’s closets, sort and purge. Donate outgrown clothing to a favorite charity (take note and get a receipt for tax deduction purposes), and throw out everything that isn’t wearable. This way, their closets won’t be cluttered, and you’ll know exactly what you have and what each child still needs.
2) Get the teacher-approved list
Most schools and teachers will send you a school supply list that details exactly what your child will need. This list will help you avoid purchasing incorrect or unneeded supplies.
3) Spread your purchases
Consider spreading out your back-to-school purchases over the course of the summer. By doing so, you will be able to take advantage of weekly sales. This way, you may be able to get all of your items at terrific prices. Also, by picking up a few items a week, you can spread out the expense.
4) Find the best prices
This doesn’t have to mean touring your town in search of the best deal on crayons. Instead, search for specials in the Sunday paper, weekly circulars, and online.
If you need help determining the best method of savings for you, contact a Bethpage Federal Credit Union expert today!