When money is tight or you simply want to avoid needless overspending, sticking to a back-to-school shopping budget is essential. The National Retail Federation reports that families plan to spend $875 on average as they prepare for the fall 2024 school bell to ring. However, creating a smart spending strategy could lower that amount. Use these tips to help save money and ensure your children have what they need for a successful school year.
Find the official school supply list
A back-to-school supply list is your secret weapon for staying on budget and avoiding impulse purchases. It helps you focus on essential items, preventing the temptation to buy unnecessary supplies that catch your eye in the store. This also ensures you're buying exactly what your child needs and prevents the headaches associated with long return lines. Check the school district's website for your child’s grade level supply list for the upcoming school year.
Inventory what you already have
Before rushing to the stores, start your shopping right in your own home. Your child's backpack from the previous school year could contain a treasure trove of reusable supplies, often overlooked in the excitement of summer. You might discover a like-new set of highlighters in a forgotten pocket, or a calculator buried at the bottom of a desk drawer. Each usable item you find is one less item you need to buy.
Search for local backpack giveaways
Community organizations often host backpack giveaway events, offering free school supplies to families in need. These initiatives, typically run by non-profits, religious groups, and local charities, can significantly reduce your back-to-school expenses. One backpack could help you cross multiple items off your shopping list without spending a dime.
Since these events are often on a first-come, first-served basis, it’s crucial that you find out when and where events are scheduled for your area. Conduct an online search using your city name and the phrase "free backpack giveaway" or check with local community centers.
While free supplies can greatly reduce your costs, you'll likely still need to make some purchases. When you do, timing is key.
Buy essentials now and postpone other purchases
Resist the urge to buy everything on your school supply list immediately. Some items can be purchased at steep discounts if you wait a few weeks after the school year begins. Focus on buying certain necessities, such as notebooks, pens, and backpacks, now. Other items like specialized calculators or supplies for later-term projects can often be bought at a discount after the initial back-to-school rush.
Host a school supply exchange
Transform back-to-school shopping into a community activity by hosting a supply swap party. Families can exchange gently used or surplus school supplies and clothing from previous years, breathing new life into items that might otherwise go unused. You can refresh your child's school inventory without opening your wallet, significantly reducing your back-to-school expenses.
Organize a swap by reaching out to other parents in your neighborhood or school community, set a date, and ask everyone to bring their excess supplies. If an in-person event isn't possible, consider setting up an online exchange using social media or community forums.
Maximize credit card rewards
Your credit card could be a powerful tool for stretching your budget. Many cards offer cashback or points on purchases from specific retailers or categories that align perfectly with school shopping needs. Strategically use rewards to reduce the overall cost of your school supplies.
By putting these strategies into practice, you can significantly reduce your back-to-school expenses without compromising on the quality of supplies.
