Back-To-School Shopping Tips

Back-to-school shopping is an exciting but costly time for families. Households with K-12 students are expected to spend about $850–$900 on clothing, shoes, supplies, and electronics, according to the National Retail Federation. As costs increase, smart budgeting and saving strategies can help manage expenses without sacrificing quality.

Begin with a realistic budget and a prioritized list

Check your child's school supply list and take stock of what you already have at home—many notebooks, pens, or backpacks from last year might still be usable. Categorize needs into "musthaves" (essentials like binders and calculators) and "nice-to-haves" (new outfits or gadgets).

Shop sales and timing carefully

Back-to-school deals hit their peak in July and August—check weekly ads from stores like Target, Walmart, and Amazon. Take advantage of sales tax holidays in many states, and spread out your purchases to get the best discounts instead of buying everything at once.

Hunt for extra savings

Use coupons, cash-back apps, and credit card rewards. Buy gently used or refurbished clothing and tech from thrift stores, online marketplaces, or community groups. Think about buying in bulk for shared supplies like glue sticks or markers.

Involve the family

Establish spending limits together and promote reusing or repurposing items. These actions not only lower expenses but also help teach essential money-management skills.

With careful planning, you can outfit your student for success while staying financially comfortable.