Back-to-School Money Saving Tips

Saving money on back-to-school supplies and expenses is a common goal for many families. Here are some tips to help you save money during this time:

1. Create a Budget: Before you start shopping, set a budget for back-to-school expenses. Having a clear spending limit can help you prioritize and make informed purchasing decisions.
2. Inventory and Prioritize: Take stock of what you already have at home. Many school supplies can be reused from the previous year. Make a list of the items that actually need to be replaced.
3. Shop Sales and Deals: Keep an eye on sales, discounts, and promotions from various retailers. Back-to-school sales usually start a few weeks before the school year begins. Compare prices from different stores and consider shopping online as well.
4. Use Coupons and Promo Codes: Look for coupons and promo codes before making any purchases. These can often be found in newspapers, online coupon websites, or directly from retailers’ websites.
5. Shop Tax-Free Weekends: Some states have tax-free weekends or weeks where you can buy certain items, like clothing and school supplies, without paying sales tax. Check if your state offers this benefit and plan your shopping accordingly. (Wisconsin does not in 2023.)
6. Buy in Bulk: For items like notebooks, pens, and pencils, consider buying in bulk. This can often result in a lower cost per item. Just be sure to only buy what you’ll actually use.
7. Shop Secondhand: Thrift stores, consignment shops, and online marketplaces can offer gently used clothing, backpacks, and other items at a fraction of the cost.
8. DIY and Repurpose: Get creative and repurpose items you already have at home. Decorate and personalize notebooks and folders, or use old t-shirts to make DIY tote bags.
9. Wait for Clearance Sales: As the back-to-school season progresses, many retailers start to put items on clearance to make way for new inventory. Patience can pay off with significant savings.
10. Consider Generic Brands: Generic or store-brand products are often just as good as name brands but can be more budget-friendly.
11. Shop Online: Online retailers frequently offer competitive prices and often have a wider selection. Look for free shipping deals or choose in-store pickup options to save on shipping costs.
12. Shop Early: Avoid the last-minute rush, as prices tend to be higher when demand is at its peak. Start shopping early to take advantage of better deals.
13. Set Limits: If you have kids with specific preferences for certain branded items, set limits on how many high-cost items they can choose.
14. Reevaluate Electronics: If your child needs electronics like laptops or tablets, consider whether an older model or refurbished device might meet their needs at a lower cost.
15. Rent or Borrow: For items that are only needed temporarily, like specialized calculators, consider renting or borrowing from friends, family, or your school.

Remember, the key to saving money is planning ahead, being mindful of your purchases, and exploring different options. By being strategic and resourceful, you can successfully cut down on back-to-school expenses.

MMCCU is here to help! Contact the team today.