Blog with a Neighbor

Back-to-school season is just around the corner. According to a recent study by the National Retail Federation, families will spend an average of $864 per household this year—which adds up to $37 billion in the United States alone. These expenses can add up quickly, from clothes to school supplies to electronics. Don’t let back-to-school shopping break the bank this year!

• Make a prioritized list of needed items (and stick to it)
• Check last year’s leftovers
• Spread out the shopping over the course of a few months.
• Download apps
• Clip coupons
• Get thrifty
  
  

Make a prioritized list of needed items (and stick to it)

Before you begin shopping, make a list of essential, top-priority items your student needs. Try not to stray from your list. This will allow you to plan ahead and map out stores for specific items, allowing you to find the best prices.

Check last year’s leftovers

You more than likely have many supplies left over from last year that could be reused. Your student likely brought home items they didn’t use from their cubbies, backpacks, or lockers at the end of the school year.

Try checking around the house for basic supplies you may already have, like a calculator, notebook paper, or pencils.

Spread out the shopping over the course of a few months

Don’t buy your child’s new wardrobe right off the bat. Wait to buy seasonal clothing items when they go on sale.

Sometimes better deals can be found after the back-to-school rush. If your student doesn’t need certain supplies until later in the year, then hold off on buying.

Download apps

Many stores have apps that are free and easy to use. These apps offer numerous money-saving perks like special offers, discount codes, and even special clearance sections that allow you to compare prices and find which stores have the better deal.

Clip coupons

Search for coupon codes online on sites such as RetailMeNot or Groupon. Local newspapers feature an ads section chocked full of coupons and sales ads. Even if you find a coupon for $.50 off an item, every little bit helps!

Get thrifty

Try back-to-school shopping at consignment shops, garage sales, thrift stores, and even Facebook Marketplace. Slightly used backpacks, clothing, and even shoes can be found for a great bargain! Going this route can sometimes be more time-consuming, but it’ll be worth it in the long run if you can check items off your shopping list for a better price.