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9 money-saving hacks for back-to-school shopping
9 money-saving hacks for back-to-school shopping
As summer draws to an end and families prepare for their final vacations of the season, it’s time for parents to turn their attention to back-to-school shopping.
August marks the beginning of back-to-school notices, which prepare kids and their parents for the upcoming school year. Aside from outlining which items their kids need for the year ahead, this list also helps parents reduce unnecessary expenses and last-minute rushes to the store.
The cost of school supplies increases every year, and this fall is certainly no different; according to the National Retail Federation, back-to-school shopping is expected to reach $36.9 billion this year, while back-to-college spending will reach $73.9 billion. Families with children in elementary through high school plan to spend an average of $864 on school items — an increase of $15 compared to last year — while college students and their families plan to spend an average of $1,199, almost the same as last year.
With those figures in mind, here are nine ways you can save a dime or two.
1. Inventory first
Before shopping for school supplies, take stock of what you have at home. See if you can repurpose some supplies from previous years. You may find leftover packs of pencils, erasers, or unused notepads.
2. Shop clearances and sales
We always recommend supporting your local small businesses, so we suggest shopping local to start. If you can’t find what you’re looking for locally, many retail chains offer weekly clearance deals, especially during back-to-school season. Places like Target and Walmart have an abundance of supplies, but don’t forget about dollar stores, where you can save even more. Make sure you sign up for free loyalty and reward programs, which can save you money on other purchases down the road.
3. Coupons
Don’t forget about couponing! Many retailers such as Target and Walmart publish coupons in the local newspaper and online to help you save more. Some retailers even allow you to use more than one coupon code.
4. Hand-me-downs
Hand-me-downs work great for back-to-school shopping. Be sure that the clothing is in good condition and fits your child well. If you have friends, family members, neighbors, or coworkers who are willing to give you these items, take advantage!
5. Thrift stores and online secondhand options
Facebook Marketplace lets you browse a relevancy-sorted feed of things to buy from people who live nearby. Craigslist is another option to consider for saving big bucks on school supplies.
6. Go online
It seems like everyone has an Amazon Prime account, so take advantage of free shipping. It can be convenient for last-minute shopping if your item is in stock, and the selection of items may be better than in stores.
7. Split bulk deals
Scoring bulk deals on school supplies is another great way to save money, especially if you find other parents willing to split the expense. If buying in bulk means major savings, why not consider shopping with other parents or taking advantage of a friend’s Costco membership?
8. Think ahead
For many back-to-school shoppers, it can be difficult to think ahead to February when you’re sweating in the August heat. But you may be able to save up to 70% when you shop ahead of the season. You can shop for winter clothes in February and stock up on summer gear in September.
The same goes for sporting equipment and even seasonal shoes. Buying sandals in February might lead to the cashier giving you a weird look, but it will save you money the coming summer. Also, consider buying two different sizes for your children. That way, you can avoid another shopping spree when your kids have a growth spurt in the middle of the school year.
9. Price match
Make sure you read up on the store’s price-match policy. Certain stores allow you to purchase an item at another store’s discounted price. You can try price matching at stores like Staples, Target, and Nordstrom, to name a few.
Additionally, think about stocking up during sales or buying in bulk for essentials such as backpacks and accessories.
Finally, don’t get caught up in buying the newest, coolest thing. Items like instruments, sporting equipment, and backpacks can be stretched for more than one year.
When is the right time to shop?
Back-to-school sales usually start in July and run through late August and early September. Many retailers have discounts year-round, so you can always find discounts, especially if you look hard enough.
Whether your kids are starting first grade or heading off to college, our Junior Savers®1 and Student Checking2 accounts are here to grow with them. Both of these accounts come with no minimum deposits to open or balance requirements, no monthly fees while they’re under the age of 22, and Student Checking also comes with a debit card.3
1. Junior Savers Account. At account opening, child(ren) must be accompanied by a parent or guardian and present a valid social security number(s). Transaction limitations will apply. Fees may reduce earnings.
2. Student Checking. Available to students 13 to 25 years of age. Applicants under the age of 18 must open account jointly with a parent, legal guardian, or other adult.
3. Debit Card. Overdraft fees may apply. A listing of WTFC locations can be found here: wintrust.com/locations.
