I am sure that some of you are already worried about how to manage buying everything your child needs and wants before starting the new school year. And as every parent, you want to make sure that you can provide for everything. But some ways of doing that are better than others – here are my most useful tips – based on past experiences. Hope it is helpful to you and I will greatly appreciate if you add to this list, as I am sure you have other experiences that you could share!
Top 10 Back to School Money Saving Tips:
1. Check your home inventory first:
I don’t know about you but I always find things at home that I have put away some time ago and just forgot I had them. And especially if you have more than one child going to school – there is a good chance you have some items at home you will not need to buy.
2. Make a shopping list:
Detailed one is a very good idea! Because if you don’t, you are likely to buy things you don’t really need. So the bottom line here to avoid unnecessary purchases. And it is a very good idea to make the list with your child. That way you will be able to avoid your child suddenly remembering that he needs something when he sees it on the store shelf.
3. Set a budget and set limits:
Again – a good idea is to get your child involved in setting the budget limits and boundaries. You may want to bring a calculator with you to the store and keep your child updated on the budget status as things are being added to the shopping cart.
4. Check out flyers with specials:
This step can be a big help when doing your shopping list with your child. Going over advertised special items will help you decide where to do your Back to School shopping. And if there are coupons, have your child cut them out and see just how much money can be saved.
5. Look for and buy used books:
If you need to purchase books, check with used book stores or contact your school for information about where you can possibly purchase used books. Or if you have friends with children in higher grades, check with them – they may have what you are looking for.
6. Check for student discounts:
This applies specifically of you are planning on purchasing electronics – check different retailers and do not be afraid to ask if they offer special discounts.
7. Check out Thrift stores for clothing:
I have found brand new items in local thrift store – with tags still on them and at a fraction of the department store price! There are real treasures to be found – it may take a little more time but trust me – it can work real well for your wallet!
8. Shop ahead and shop smart:
If your budget and your wallet will allow it, and when you see a really good bargain, buy enough to last – not just what is needed for the first month of school. It will work well for you in the long run.
9. One more tip on clothing issue:
You may want to wait for your children (especially girls) to determine what the trends are. There is a very good chance that the items on the list will change as she sees what is in and what isn’t in.You might be able to avoid some discussions on that subject that you would rather not have.
10. Go Homemade:
I am talking about lunches specifically here. Things like drinking boxes can be easily replaced by having your child choose their own drinking bottle and filling it with juice that is already in your fridge. And same thing goes for things like puddings, snacks – just look for reusable containers and use them as much as possible instead of spending money on prepared lunch items. And this works really well if you get your child involved in preparation process – it will be the lunch they will eat if they put it together themselves.
Your comments, additions and suggestions are most welcomed here – please share!
