As summer draws to a close, it’s time to start thinking about the back to school season. (I know, I hate to be the party pooper, I just want to help you all prepare).
For many families, this can be an overwhelming time, especially when it comes to shopping for school supplies, clothes, and other necessities.
However, with a little planning and some savvy shopping techniques, you can find the best deals and make back to school shopping a breeze.
In today’s blog post, we’ll explore some helpful tips to save money and find the best deals during this busy shopping season.
So let’s get to it!
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How to Get the Best Back to School Deals
1. Make a List
Before you hit the stores, make a list of the items you need. Take inventory of what you already have and identify what needs to be replaced or purchased new. This will help you stay focused and avoid impulse purchases. By having a clear idea of what you need, you can better compare prices and find the best deals.
2. Compare Prices Online
One of the best ways to find the best deals is to go online and compare prices. Many retailers offer exclusive online deals, especially during back-to-school season. Use price comparison websites or check the websites of different stores to see who has the best prices on the items you need. You might be surprised at the difference in prices from store to store.
3. Sign up for Retailer Newsletters and Alerts
Many retailers send out newsletters or alerts with special offers and deals. Take advantage of this by signing up for their mailing lists or downloading their apps. This way, you’ll receive notifications about discounts, promotions, and exclusive deals. Some stores also offer special coupons or discounts for new subscribers, so it’s worth considering.
4. Shop at Outlet Stores or Discount Retailers
Outlet stores and discount retailers often offer significant savings on brand-name items. These stores typically carry merchandise from previous seasons or overstocked items, which means you can find great deals on clothes, shoes, and school supplies. Don’t overlook these options; they may surprise you with their quality and affordability.
5. Take Advantage of Sales Tax Holidays
Many states have sales tax holidays during the back-to-school season. These holidays typically offer a designated period where certain items are exempt from sales tax. Be sure to check the dates and eligible items for your state and plan your shopping accordingly. This can save you a significant amount of money on your back-to-school purchases.
6. Shop Early or Late
Timing is everything when it comes to finding the best deals. Try shopping early in the back-to-school season, as many retailers offer special promotions and discounts to attract customers. On the flip side, you can also find great deals towards the end of the season when stores are clearing out their inventory. However, be aware that popular items may be sold out if you wait too long.
7. Use Coupons and Promo Codes
Don’t forget about the power of coupons and promo codes. Before heading out to the stores, search for printable coupons or online promo codes. There are also smartphone apps and browser extensions that can automatically apply coupon codes at checkout, saving you time and money.
Other Money-Saving Tips for the New School Year
Whether your child is enrolled in grade school, high school, or college, expenses can add up quickly. Here are some money-saving tips for the new school year:
Create a budget
Determine how much you can afford to spend each month on school supplies, food, transportation, and other expenses. Stick to your budget and track your expenses throughout the year.
Plan healthy, budget-friendly meals
Packing lunches and snacks for your kids can save you a lot of money compared to buying meals at school. To save even more, plan your meals ahead of time and buy items in bulk.
Cut down on transportation costs
Walking, taking the school bus, or biking to school can be a great way to save on transportation costs. If driving is necessary, consider carpooling with other families to save on gas expenses.
Buy second-hand items
Check out garage sales and thrift stores for clothes. Kids grow quickly and they often need new clothes each school year. Instead of breaking the bank by buying new clothes, check out garage sales, thrift stores or online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace. You can often find gently used clothes for a fraction of the price of new items.
Take advantage of free activities: Many communities offer free activities for families such as local festivals, library programs, and parks. Check your community calendar for upcoming events.
Wrapping Up
Back to school shopping doesn’t have to break the bank. With a little planning, research, and smart shopping, you can find the best deals on everything you need for the upcoming school year.
By implementing these money-saving tips, you’ll not only save money throughout the school year but will also reduce stress during this busy back to school shopping season.
Happy shopping!
