How to Cut Costs on Back-to-School Shopping

The school year may feel like it drags on, but the break between summer’s start and the first day back seems to fly by. Before you’ve fully enjoyed the summer, you’re already preparing for the new school year. And, of course, that means it’s time for back-to-school shopping.

Are you ever truly financially ready? Research shows parents spend over $500 on school supplies annually. But this year, you can be better prepared! Here are 10 ways to save money on your back-to-school shopping.

1. Create a List

Before making any purchases, figure out exactly what your child needs. Talk to their teachers to understand the required supplies for the school year, then create your shopping list. Add any non-school-specific items they’ll need, like clothes or shoes. Prioritize the list with essentials at the top and avoid adding unnecessary items.

2. Check What You Already Own

Look through the list and see what supplies you already have at home. Often, there are leftover supplies from the previous year that can be reused. Check off the items you already have to cut down on your shopping list.

3. Set a Budget and Stick to It

Using your final list, establish a budget for your back-to-school shopping. Your goal should be to stick to this budget without overspending. Staying focused on your list is key to avoiding impulse purchases.

4. Shop Gradually

Don’t wait until the last minute to buy everything your child needs. Keep your list handy and shop over the summer, picking up items when you come across them. This will make it easier to manage your budget.

And while you’re at it, consider using apps like Upside to earn cash back on gas and other purchases during your shopping trips.

5. Take Advantage of Tax-Free Holidays

If your state offers a sales tax holiday, make the most of it. Find out when the tax-free period takes place and plan to shop during that time. If you’re buying items throughout the summer, save the more expensive purchases for tax-free days to save even more.

6. Use Cash Back Credit Cards

Check which of your credit cards (hopefully not too many) offers the highest cash-back rewards. Since back-to-school purchases can add up, using a card that rewards you with cash back can help you save more. If you don’t have a cash-back credit card, now might be a good time to look into getting one.

7. Shop at Dollar Stores

Most basic school supplies are the same everywhere, so don’t hesitate to shop at dollar stores for cheaper alternatives. In addition to school supplies, you can also find lunch boxes, water bottles, hand sanitizer, and tissues—items that are likely on your child’s list.

8. Compare Prices

Not everything can be found at a dollar store, and for certain items, you may prefer better quality. For instance, if your child carries a lot of books, you’ll want a sturdy backpack. Expensive items like backpacks can be costly, so it’s worth shopping around to find the best deals.

9. Buy Refurbished Electronics

Most kids need some type of tech for school, but it doesn’t have to be brand new. Refurbished products are a great way to save money. Electronics can be pricey, but buying a refurbished laptop or tablet from a trusted source can save you a significant amount. Computer repair shops often sell refurbished brand-name products, and your child won’t know the difference between refurbished and new.

10. Use Coupons and Apps

Coupons can lead to major savings. If you’re not someone who usually clips coupons, now is the perfect time to start. Many retailers still accept paper coupons, but you can also download store apps to grab digital coupons to use at checkout.

If shopping online, browser extensions like Capital One Shopping or Rakuten can automatically apply coupons and give you cash back on your purchases.