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It’s possible for the back-to-school shopping list and your budget to co-exist peacefully. If you plan it just right, you can have an all-out shopping spree that will send your kids back to the classroom with the gear and clothes they want while other families are cutting back. Arm yourself with these shopping strategies so you can make the most of your money.
Save Money on the Basics
- Make a list. Knowing the basic supplies your child needs for school will prevent you from wasting money. While your first grader might think it’s cool to have a miniature stapler, it’s unlikely the homeroom teacher included this gadget on his or her required materials list.
- Use a prepaid Reach Card to buy in bulk. Go in with other families and buy some supplies from a bulk retailer. You might spend a little more up front, but your child will be equipped for the entire school year. Putting the purchase on your prepaid Reach Card ensures you’re paying with money you have instead of racking up debt.
- Maximize your coupon use. Some grocery and drug stores offer double coupons every day. If you have a coupon for basic items like notebook paper, pens or pencils, buy them from a grocery store with your coupon so you can get double the savings.
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- Buy (some) used clothing. You can find jeans, shorts and even socks in great shape at used clothing stores for a fraction of the retail price. Tell your kids that by buying these basic items used, there will be more money for new shirts, sweaters and shoes. Kids might be more receptive to used clothing bought online because you can avoid browsing the racks of a brick-and-mortar secondhand shop.
Save Money on the Extras
- Shop at outlets. Great deals on name-brand clothes will make parents and kids happy. Use the money you saved on cheap basics to indulge a bit at the outlet stores. Look for shirts and shoes that you’re less likely to find used or at big box discount stores.
- Buy out of season. Stores are deeply discounting summer clothes that didn’t sell in season. This is the perfect time to stock up for next spring and summer. Avoid trendy clothes that will look dated.
- Ask your older kids to help. If your kids had a summer job, ask them to help pay for a new pair of shoes, especially if they insist on having a particular, expensive brand.
The cash register doesn’t have to be the source of financial heartburn. With a good plan of attack, you can buy all the back-to-school necessities and extras without breaking the bank.