5 Tips for Back-to-School Shopping

Shopping for back-to-school supplies or college essentials is a big task, and it can take an even bigger bite out of your budget. While some items such as pencils and socks may not be expensive, the sheer quantity can add up fast. These back-to-school shopping tips can help you knock out items on your list efficiently so you can make the most of your budget.

1. Do an inventory sweep. Ask your kids to round up school supplies at home. You might find a stash of school supplies hidden in desk drawers, backpacks and storage bins. Next, go through closets and sort out clothing and sports gear your kids have outgrown. Doing this before you shop can help you identify items that can be reused, and what you need to buy new.
2. Set limits and track expenses. Back-to-school lists can be long, and your child may want to add more items when you’re out shopping. Control costs by setting a spending limit and keeping track of spending by using a debit or credit card for purchases. Give your child a budget for items they wish to add and help them make smart choices regarding their limits. Also be on the lookout for coupons and share the task of clipping coupons with your child.
3. Stick to a list. Take the guesswork out of back-to-school shopping by getting a list of school supplies from your child’s teacher. For college-bound students, ask for a list of recommended dorm room essentials, technology needs and textbooks. Also be aware of what items aren’t allowed. Keep receipts handy for easy exchanges.
4. Shop around. Check the local dollar store and thrift stores for deals on back-to-school supplies. Look for deeply discounted, gently used clothing, shoes and backpacks at garage sales and consignment shops. When buying new, compare prices at big-box retailers—they may offer hefty discounts on back-to-school items just to get customers in the door. It also pays to check for deals from online retailers—especially if you can get free shipping. For college students looking to furnish dorms or apartments on a budget, consider sites like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace.
5. Take advantage of price adjustments. After you finish your shopping, save receipts and keep a watchful eye on prices over the next few weeks. If any of the items you bought go on sale, it may be worth returning to the store for a price adjustment. While it may not be a big deal for smaller items (e.g., pens or paper), getting the adjusted price for a big-ticket item (e.g., laptop or tablet) can be a major money saver.