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. Here are 5 ways to save on back-to-school shopping.
1. Take inventory
Before you spend money on new supplies or clothing, check drawers and closets to see what you already have around the house. This way, your child’s closet won’t be cluttered, and you’ll know exactly what you have and what your child still needs.
2. Make a back-to-school budget
One important thing to note about budgeting is that it isn’t just about spending a minimal amount of money, but it’s a way to strategize so you can afford the things you really need. Building a back-to-school budget will keep you focused when shopping — and help you avoid buying unplanned items.
3. Go shopping with a plan
Set a budget for back-to-school shopping before you go to stores, then figure out how much you can spend for various items on the list. Having a clear list can help you avoid impulse purchases that can push you over your budget.
4. Shop for sales
There are a ton of opportunities to find discounts on many items on your list. Take advantage of back-to-school and Labor Day sales, which will bring about plenty of price cuts, especially on seasonal items like summer apparel. Signing up and using retailers’ apps will also help you become aware of good deals and give you access to special coupons and offers.
5. Compare prices before you buy
Shopping around for back-to-school items will help you compare prices across several retailers and to choose the store where the item is cheapest. It may make sense to buy cheap when it comes to things like notebooks and pencils since your kids are going to use those items throughout the school year. Save your extra dollars for items that need to last, like backpacks.