It is that time of year again – the back-to-school season! While going back to school can be an exciting feeling, it can also bring on stress for a variety of reasons, one being the long list of school supplies that are required for your kids for the upcoming year. Shopping for the back-to-school season can be overwhelming and expensive, so we have pulled together some tips on how you can shop for back-to-school in the smartest way possible. Check them out here:
Smart Back-to-School Shopping Tips
1 – Look at the back-to-school list.
Your child likely received a list of supplies that will be required for the upcoming school year, so before you begin any of your shopping, check out what is needed so that you can properly prepare for where you will need to go, how long shipping might take, and if you have any questions for the teacher before you start shopping.
2 – Check what you already have at home.
Once you have aligned on what is needed, check your home for items that you might already have and that you can easily cross off the list before you begin your shopping spree. Chances are you have some leftover supplies from the previous school year, or from some of your other kid’s previous school years, that you can use up. If you are having trouble finding school supplies, take some time to organize everything so that each year you are able to go back to the same area for leftover supplies that are all together.
3 – Make a list of what you need.
After you have taken inventory of what you already have, make a separate list of items that you will need to purchase. While you are creating this list, get your child involved so that you are both on the same page as to what is needed, while also helping them to feel more organized and on top of things before beginning the new school year. Also, while making this list, take some time to establish what it is that is needed versus what your child wants. There are tons of different options when it comes to school supplies and clothes for the new school year, so to avoid going overboard, figure out what is an absolute must first!
4 – Know your budget.
Like we mentioned, back-to-school shopping can really start to add up, whether it is the school supplies or some new clothes that your child will look forward to rocking at the beginning of the year. Make sure that you know exactly what your budget is before beginning the back-to-school shopping so that you are staying financially responsible. And it is always a good idea to bring your kids along with you to ensure that they like what is being purchased so that you are not wasting your time.
5 – Invest in quality items.
When you are out shopping, make sure that you are investing in quality items that you know will last your kids throughout the school year, versus items that may be cheaper to buy now but you know will need to be replaced at some point throughout the year.
6 – Shop around for best prices.
While it might be tempting to settle for the first items that you see when you are out shopping, take some time to shop around and make sure that you are finding the best possible price for each item, especially more expensive items such as backpacks. You will also find that there will be tons of promotions going on and coupons available, so be sure to check if the stores you are shopping at will price match.