Finding School Supplies On A Budget

While it may seem like the summer rushed by in a flash (or in waves of exhaustion for some parents), back to school season is upon us- whether we are prepared for it or not. And with the start of the school year on our heels, parents all over are receiving letters from their child’s school with a list of the supplies their children are expected to bring for the classroom as well as those they will need personally. With the well-publicized education cuts and lack of funds in schools, it has become the norm to see these lists pop up in your child’s registration packet. And while you may be happy to help supply their needs, affordability can be a consideration. After all, back to school shopping is already expensive- clothes, shoes, backpacks, and any other personal items your child needs to nail the year cost some dough.

So in the spirit of saving, we wouldn’t be our helpful selves if we didn’t share some of our best tips on back to school supply shopping on a budget!

Timing Is Key

Back to school sales don’t typically start until after the Fourth of July weekend, but it is not too early to start scoping out some deals. On the other hand, you don’t want to shop at the very last minute when stores are wrapping up their school sales and setting up for the next season. By then, all of the best sales have run their course and you are probably sweatin’ it because you cut it so close.

Stress+no choices because of time factors=sub par deals and more money spent.

For the past few years, Amazon has held its (becoming) infamous “Prime Day”, which is supposed to be reminiscent of black Friday- but influenced by one company (Amazon) and held in July. However, other retailers have jumped on board as well, making their sales and specials just as tempting as Amazon. During this time, you can sweep up kids clothes, shoes, and other staples at great costs. However, when it comes to supplies, you may be better off waiting for the “official” back to school sales to start. That’s when retailers mark down the items required by schools to all year lows.

Compare Prices

Scan the ads and compare to online prices. Depending on what you are required to supply, the price differences can be substantial. If your list consists of crayons and tissue paper, prices will be close for most retailers. But if you need something bigger and techier, think computers or software, it will be well worth your time to shop around for specials. Sometimes you are best off finding the items from online retailers, depending on what you are looking for. This is one time of year however, that in-store sales can seem to edge out the online in most cases. Play it by ear and do your research.

Price Match

Planning on doing the majority of your shopping at one store, but saw that they price match competitors? Give it a shot. Or if you purchased an item and it goes on sale at the same retailer a few days later? Again, see if they will honor their sale price. It may not always be an option, but many times it is.

Use Coupons

Digital store apps and digital coupon resources can be a lifesaver during back to school. Stores like Target (thank you, Cartwheel) may offer sweeping discounts on all back to school supplies on top of any savings experienced from an existing sale. Add that to any other digital coupons you find (Ibotta, Coupons.com, Checkout51, Rakuten), and your savings savvy just went up a few points.

Whatever you do, don’t wait until the day before school starts to secure your list. You risk higher prices and fewer inventory choices, which is never ideal as a consumer. Start early (but not too early), scan your adds, find additional coupons, and remember- the money spent is for a good cause. If you are fortunate enough to have the funds to pick up some extra supplies at a great price, the school (as well as students who are having a hard time affording supplies for the year) will appreciate it.