5 Ways to Save on Back-to-School Shopping
5 Ways to Save on Back-to-School Shopping
Making Back-to-School Shopping More Affordable and Fun
The back-to-school shopping season is here, bringing with it the challenge of affording clothing and educational supplies. However, this year’s back-to-school consumer spending is expected to reach a record $41.5 billion, up from $36.9 billion in the previous year, according to the National Retail Federation’s (NRF) latest Back-to-School Survey. The average family with children in grades K-12 is projected to spend about $890 on apparel, shoes, supplies, and electronics, surpassing the previous high of $864.
This surge in spending is primarily driven by increased demand for electronics. A record 69% of back-to-school shoppers plan to buy electronics or computer accessories this year, a 4% increase from 2022.
Tips to Save During the Back-to-School Season
With ever-rising costs weighing on family budgets, it’s important to find ways to save during this pricey time of year. Here are some tips that can help:
1) Purge the Closet
Kids grow like weeds, and it’s not uncommon for a pair of shoes bought just a month ago to no longer fit. Take some time to go through your child’s clothing and identify what fits and is in good condition. You can hold on to items that can be handed down to younger siblings, friends, or donated to Goodwill. Anything else can be tossed or recycled for a craft project. This exercise also provides an opportunity to talk to your children about being mindful of waste and the importance of making things last.
For supplies, take a look at what your child has from the previous school year. Are there unused glue, paper, or folders in good shape? Reuse them or pass them on to another child in the household.
- Politics, not the law, can stop Donald Trump
- Synchrony vs. Marcus Which Bank Offers Higher Interest Rates?
- TAB Bank Review 2023
2) Make a Budget
Teaching children how to manage their finances is crucial, and back-to-school shopping can be a perfect opportunity to impart these lessons. Sit down with your child and discuss how much can be spent on clothing, supplies, and other items like a laptop or high-tech gadget for class. Encourage your child to come up with ways to stretch their budget or contribute to the overall amount.
If your child wants an expensive pair of shoes, consider offering to pay for half and have them come up with the rest. This not only sets financial limits but also helps them develop good money habits. Additionally, it provides them with a practical lesson in math as they work towards earning their desired item.
3) Explore Thrift Stores
Kids today love a good “throwback,” and they enjoy finding cool retro items. Thrift stores like Goodwill or rummage sales can be treasure troves of unique and affordable clothing and accessories. You may even have some items in storage that would appeal to the kids in your household. A vintage jean jacket from the 1960s might make the perfect fashion statement for a teenager on the first day of school.
4) Check Online and on Social Media
Harness the power of technology to find great deals during the back-to-school season. Surf the web with your child and check if stores like Target, Walmart, or Office Max are offering special promotions on their social media accounts. Many retailers post upcoming sales targeting back-to-school shoppers. Additionally, websites like Amazon.com or Overstock.com can offer cheaper alternatives to higher-end items. It’s like going on a virtual rummage sale shopping spree, minus the hassle.
5) Start Shopping Early
To avoid the rush and high prices of back-to-school shopping, consider starting your preparations early. By shopping around March, you can take advantage of clearance sales and find winter clothing at discounted prices. While others are still thinking about spring, you’ll be a savvy shopper thinking ahead and scoring decent deals on boots or warm jackets for the upcoming winter season.
By following these tips, you can make the back-to-school shopping experience more affordable, fun, and educational for both you and your child. So, go ahead and tackle the back-to-school season with confidence!
Related Content
- Back-to-School and 4 Other Florida Tax Holidays Happening Now
- 11 Things You Don’t Need for College
- Virginia Tax-Free Weekend Gone Despite Massive Budget Surplus
