It can be easy to get carried away as you prepare to get the family back to the grind. But, these back-to-school money saving tips will not only help you get your students ready for school but save money in your wallet as well.
Get an early start.
The earlier you start preparing for back-to-school, obviously the better; but, we all know that that is not always feasible. Thus, make this the year that you start early for next year. At the end of each season, try purchasing items that you can for the following year such as clothes or backpacks. Think ahead, even with clothing sizes for those quickly growing little ones. Furthermore, you’d be wise to pay attention to your states’s tax holiday for extra savings.
Make a list. Actually, make a few.
Organization is one of the many allies of saving money. Look back on years past to see how much you have spent and evaluate what can be eliminated. Make a specific budget for your back-to-school spending. Also, peek through the closets to determine what clothes are still wearable and what are actually needed. You may even be able to make money from the merchandise your child may no longer need through yard sales or online selling groups. This time of year can be a great opportunity to teach your kids a little about budgeting. Helping them to understand that there is only a certain amount allotted per child and writing out projected necessary expenses (books and similar school supplies) should make it clear. It could be the start of a healthy and beautiful relationship with money.
Be proactive with sales.
Once you’ve cleared the closets of outdated or outgrown clothes, don’t shy away from those summer sales for new items. Short sleeved shirts can be worn all year long under cardigans and the like. You may want to consider swapping or shopping for different supplies with mom groups or local yard sales. It’s amazing what hidden gems can be found at thrift shops as well. Not to mention, as certain items go on sale, try to buy them in bulk, such as any paper materials, glue and the like.
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Stick to the necessities.
Knowing what supplies are required by the teacher or professor in advance will help to eliminate unnecessary spending. Pay attention to this list and try not to veer off of it. Know which items can be purchased at a discounted rate, and keep an eye out for coupons. Stores like Aldi do often provide a variety of school supplies at cheaper rates than other stores. Although their inventory may be limited, it is worth reviewing for items like folders, notebooks and binders.
Use what you already own.
Raid your home for things that may be on the teacher’s supply list. Back-to-school items may be hiding right under your nose, so why spend money when you may not need to? Pencils, pens, calculators, art gear are just a few examples of supplies you may already own.
Set limits.
Set limits with your children and teens when it comes to the latest trends. As mentioned previously, this is a great time to educate them on finances. Compromise and make a deal with them; allow them to pick an item or two that follows the trend, but show them how to find quality items for less. This will be a trait they can use throughout their life, and they will thank you for that.
Research for college savings.
College expenses are a completely different ballgame for back-to-school season. Textbooks are among one of these several money suckers for advanced education. Look for discounted books on sites like Ebay or Ebay’s alternative, Half.com, where college students can buy and sell books. If you want to find the best deal of your college textbooks, search the ISBN number online with the word “used.” Another way to save on college textbooks is to look for e-book versions of the text.
Use social media.
Sometimes, it pays to follow businesses online. Because companies want to draw more customers to their sites and social media pages, they will periodically offer money-saving deals to their loyal fan-base. Look for some of the top sellers of your school supplies on Facebook and Twitter.
August is one of the best back-to-school shopping months, but it is also the busiest. Get the biggest bang for your buck by resorting to sources both online and offline and staying in tune with all the deals. By having your list ready and knowing what you need, you can reduce wasted time and increase your savings.
Have you started your back-to-school shopping? Where are you finding the best deals?
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