From Summer Fun to School Supplies: Top Tips for Back-to-School

Sunscreen or school supplies? Probably both!

While summer vacation is in full swing, savvy parents know that back-to-school season is right around the corner. And a little planning now means less financial stress later.

The National Retail Federation estimates that the average family spends $586 per child to head back to school. That covers everything from clothes and shoes to the latest gadgets and, of course, all those essential school supplies. And if your kids are into extracurriculars, that number is even higher.

But don’t worry. The good news is that you can tackle these expenses without emptying your bank account. Here are a few things to consider:

Start with a Treasure Hunt at Home

Before heading to the store for school supplies, kick things off with a family treasure hunt at home! You might be surprised by what you already have on hand. Start by having your kids check their closets. They grow so quickly, you may find they’ve outgrown clothes you thought would still fit. If time allows, consider spacing out clothing purchases to better manage your budget. Next, gather any usable supplies you already own and inspect backpacks and lunchboxes for wear and tear. Finally, with a clear picture of your current inventory and the school’s supply list in hand, create a targeted shopping list, focusing only on essential items you actually need to purchase.

Be a savvy shopper

Don’t settle for the first price you see. Shop around at different retailers, both in-store and online, to compare prices. For basics like pencils and notebook paper – where brand doesn’t matter – focus on finding the least expensive options that meet your needs. You might discover sweet deals or even score a price match! Starting sooner gives you the time to shop smarter and snag those bargains.

Maximize Your Savings

Tax-free weekends are a great way to save on back-to-school essentials. Many states offer these events, so check your local news or school district website for dates and participating items. Military families, remember that you can shop tax-free year-round at your local base exchange. Even better, take advantage of free school supplies. Operation Homefront’s Back-to-School Brigade and the USO often host events where military children can receive free backpacks and supplies. Check their websites for eligibility and event details in your area.

Bulk Up (But Only When It Makes Sense)

Got multiple kiddos to outfit? Buying things like pencils, notebooks, and folders in bulk may be a smart move. Just make sure you’ll actually use everything you buy.

Finding great deals is part of the battle. But here’s the other piece of the puzzle: budgeting. It’s not the most glamorous topic, but it’s important. If you’re not sure where to start, check out our guide and Budget Builder tool. Review your budget and try to set aside a little bit from each paycheck to cover those back-to-school costs. That way, you can avoid relying on credit cards and starting the school year in debt. Once again, this is why starting sooner allows you to save a little bit along the way.

Involving your kids in the whole process is a great way to teach them about needs versus wants, how to set goals, basic budgeting concepts, and the importance of prioritizing spending.

So, get a head start, take charge of your back-to-school spending, and enjoy the rest of your summer knowing you’re prepared. With a little planning, you can make your back-to-school prep a success without stressing your wallet!

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