Save Money on Back to School Supplies
If you haven’t already, it’s time to start your back to School shopping. Many schools in our area are beginning in just three weeks! Summer just isn’t long enough, is it? It’s hard to believe that summer is coming to a close, yet we must accept it and make plans for the upcoming school year.
Back to school shopping can be stressful at times; between shopping for school clothes and Supplies the costs can quickly add up. It’s easy for families to spend $300 or more on back to school items. That’s a lot of money, especially if you’re on a budget!
We have gathered a few ways to save on your kid’s must-have back to School Supplies, so if you’re looking for ways to save on their back to school wardrobe, be sure to read on!
Reuse
If I haven’t done it already, before heading out to shop for school supplies, take inventory of everything from the previous year that is still usable this year. I always end up reusing rulers, scissors, and some folders since we have to buy the plastic ones. I always seem to have an abundance of pencils too. Since they’re in the lower grades they’re always bringing home pencils from activities at school.
Sales
Keep a check on your local sales ads. There will be sales galore on school supplies. If you find a great price on some items consider shopping at a store that price matches to avoid driving all over town to save a few cents.
Coupons
In addition to shopping the sales, be sure to keep an eye out for coupons to save even more on those must-have supplies. Dollar General always has coupons for back-to-school supplies that can be used in addition to their sales. There are several really good coupon sites that will show you the best deals and what coupons are available so you can save time and money.
Durability
When it comes to backpacks, consider investing in a nice, durable backpack that can be used several years and be handed down to younger siblings. You will buy a new backpack every year if you get the cheap character ones. Either they tear up or your child is not interested in them after one year.
Shop Alone
While this isn’t always possible, and kids enjoy choosing which supplies they want, if you shop for the majority of supplies without the children you can choose the best value for your money. Kids often will choose more expensive items with characters and vibrant colors.
Once I have the staple items I let my kiddos choose a few supplies that they like. It helps them to get more excited about school when they have a few supplies they just can’t live without.
Buy in Bulk
Stores often have great sales on school supplies before school starts, but a couple of weeks after if begins they will have their best sales and possibly clearance. Consider stocking up on items that your kids will use throughout the year and even get a few more to start school with next year.
I’ve gotten large packs of plastic folders for $1 and crayons, pencils, erasers, note books and loose-leaf paper for just pennies. It’s definitely worth stocking up on these things you know will get used.
Buy Secondhand
Yard sales, consignment shops, and Facebook or craigslist are a great way to find better quality items for a great price. Of course, you are looking for the more expensive items at these sales like back packs, calculators, laptops, and items for extracurricular activities like instruments for band.
Even though back to school shopping is expensive, with these tips, you can be sure to save some of your hard-earned cash for other things.
What are some things you do to save on your kids back-to-school supplies?
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