Great savings tips for back-to-school expenses

Aug. 1, 2024

The start of a new school year is always stressful, but the stress is even higher with soaring prices. It won’t be easy to afford the clothes, shoes, electronics and supplies that your children need for back-to-school. The price of groceries, gasoline, clothing, shoes, electronics and other items is higher than ever, and it doesn’t look like the economy will improve anytime soon.

So, it’s more important than ever before to have a list that includes everything your children need. With that list, you can create a budget and hopefully find ways to purchase everything.

Tips for saving on back-to-school expenses:
  • As you begin the budget process, make a list of everything your children need and order each item by its importance. That way you can spread out the expenses when necessary.
  • Go through your children’s closets with them to find out what they need. Some clothing items from last year might still fit. Also remember that summer temperatures will go into the first couple of months of school which will allow you to buy fall and winter clothing a little later.
  • For supplies, do price comparisons between stores like Walmart and Target. Also remember to check the dollar stores in your area as they often have some of the items on the supply list.
  • Don’t forget to check for coupons online and in the newspaper. You’ll be able to save a lot of money so it will be worth the time and the effort required to clip and click for coupons.
  • Find out which stores price match and shop at those.
  • You do not have to say yes to every extracurricular activity that your children mention. They are both time-consuming and expensive. Pick what your budget, and your time constraints, can cover.
  • If you are financially able, begin setting aside a little money each month when school starts this year, to cover expenses next year. Even if you cannot save the entire amount, every little bit saved will help.

Sources: https://www.mykidstime.com/school/44-simple-ways-save-money-back-school/

https://money.usnews.com/money/personal-finance/family-finance/articles/frugal-back-to-school-shopping-tips 

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