7 Smart Ways to Save on Back-to-School Shopping
7 Smart Ways to Save on Back-to-School Shopping
Working at a school district, I see firsthand the excitement, the nerves, and yes — the financial stress — that comes with the start of a new school year. Having earned a couple of college degrees myself, I know the costs involved in preparing for classes, whether it’s for young students or for yourself. And over the years, I’ve heard from many parents who feel overwhelmed by the never-ending supply lists, clothing needs, and technology requirements. That’s why I want to share some realistic, tested, and parent-approved ways to save money this back-to-school season.
1. Start Early and Compare Prices
The earlier you begin, the more options you have. Sales on school supplies often start as early as July, and waiting until the last week can mean paying more because the best deals are gone. I recommend using Google Shopping or CamelCamelCamel to track prices before you buy. Last year, a parent I work with saved nearly 30% on a graphing calculator simply by setting a price alert and waiting for the right moment.
2. Reuse and Recycle Supplies
Before heading to the store, check what’s already in your home. You’d be surprised how many pens, folders, and binders are still in good condition from the previous year. At my school, we’ve seen students bring back the same sturdy backpack for three or four years — a quick wash makes it look new. Even partially used notebooks can be repurposed by tearing out old pages and decorating the covers.
3. Take Advantage of Tax-Free Weekends
Many states offer tax-free weekends that include school supplies, clothing, and sometimes electronics. This can save you anywhere from 4% to 10% depending on your state’s sales tax. You can check the full schedule on the Federation of Tax Administrators website. One parent told me she saves over $50 every year just by planning her shopping trip during this weekend.
4. Buy in Bulk with Other Parents
Supplies like pencils, glue sticks, and paper are often cheaper when purchased in larger quantities. Consider teaming up with other parents to buy bulk packs and split them. This year, I saw a group of three families buy a case of copy paper together — each got more than enough for the year and paid less than half of the regular retail price per ream.
5. Sign Up for Store Loyalty Programs
Many major retailers like Target, Staples, and Office Depot have loyalty programs that provide members with exclusive discounts, coupons, and even cashback rewards. Some stores also run “teacher appreciation” or “student discount” days that can be used by anyone shopping for school. Signing up takes only a few minutes and can lead to significant savings over the course of the year.
6. Shop Secondhand for Clothes
Children grow quickly, so buying brand-new clothes for the entire school year can be expensive — and unnecessary. Thrift stores, consignment shops, and online platforms like thredUP or Facebook Marketplace are full of gently used items, often from quality brands. I’ve seen parents score name-brand jeans for $5 and jackets for less than $10 this way.
7. Use Cashback and Rebate Apps
If you’re shopping online or even in-store, apps like Rakuten and Ibotta can give you a percentage of your purchase back in cash. Think of it as a small refund for buying what you already need. I personally use Rakuten for big purchases like laptops or tablets, and it’s put more than $100 back into my account over the past year.
Bonus Tip: Plan for Next Year Now
One of the best ways to save is to think ahead. After school starts, many stores deeply discount leftover supplies to make room for seasonal items. This is the perfect time to stock up on basics for next year — I’ve bought $1 notebooks for 25 cents and backpacks for under $10 during these clearance sales.
Final Thoughts
Back-to-school shopping doesn’t have to break the bank. With a little planning, some collaboration, and the right tools, you can get everything your child needs without feeling financially drained. I see parents every year make small changes — like reusing supplies or taking advantage of tax-free weekends — and save hundreds of dollars in the process. Whether you have one child in kindergarten or a teenager starting high school, these strategies can help you prepare without the stress.
Once you’ve handled school shopping, you can keep your finances on track with my guide to 5 Simple Budgeting Tricks That Actually Work.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. The links provided are to reputable external sources for your convenience. I am not affiliated with any of the companies mentioned, and you should always confirm current prices, policies, and availability before making a purchase.