Millions of American families are likely to be thinking about back-to-school supplies. Especially with today’s rising inflation, parents may be paying closer attention to what’s written on the price tags.
When August arrives, families with school-age children may be unprepared for the expense of clothing, supplies, uniforms, and equipment.
The key to saving money on back-to-school shopping is to plan ahead of time and anticipate that you’ll need to buy more than you think.
From July through September 2022, several businesses are providing fantastic bargains on school supplies. Furthermore, there are easy things you can take to save even more money while ensuring your children are prepared for class. Back-to-school shopping isn’t enjoyable, but these strategies will help you spend less money.
Take Advantage of Sales Tax Holidays in 2022
During the back-to-school shopping season, dozens of states provide sales tax breaks. These “holidays” may help families save anywhere from 3 to 10% on clothing, gadgets, school supplies such as backpacks or notebooks, and other items.
The programs will differ depending on the state. Some sales tax holidays have a maximum savings amount or restrict tax savings to specific items. Other states will accept uniform decreases. However, at the end of the day, families may use these days to save a lot of money on school supplies or other necessities.
Use a Credit Card That Offers Big Rewards
Spending money on school supplies and clothing is unavoidable, and even if you do your best to shop bargains, your expenses may build up. However, the correct credit card might help you save money on your purchases.
If you charge your back-to-school costs to a credit card that gives a substantial amount of cash back, you may use that money to help offset your bills. Furthermore, some credit cards provide rotating reward categories. It’s worth checking to see if any of your credit cards are now providing additional cash back this quarter. Since it might be a fantastic source of supplies, apparel, and shoes.
It’s no secret that raising children is expensive, and the back-to-school season may be especially costly. The last thing you want to do is fall into debt from cash advance apps when shopping, so establish a strategy to stay organized, shop at the proper places, and use credit cards wisely.
Purchase In Bulk and Share the Cost With Others
Purchasing goods in bulk is an excellent strategy to reduce back-to-school expenses. However, not everyone can afford this initial commitment. If buying hundreds of crayons and markers puts a burden on your budget, see if your friends with school-aged children want to combine their resources and share the price.
Consider doing the same thing with masks, gloves, and other personal protective equipment. Doctors advise youngsters to carry two face masks to school each day so that they may change into a clean mask at lunch or if one becomes filthy.
Make a List — and Consider Each Thing Twice
It’s a simple yet effective trick: write down what you need rather than what you desire. It may be highlighters, a pair of pants, or a calculator. Before adding an item to the list, consider how you would use it in your everyday student life, how often you would use it, and why you desire it in the first place.
Don’t purchase anything simply because your friends are putting it in their carts; instead, think about how the item will improve your educational experience. Once you’ve finished your list, you’ll have a mental motivation to keep to those goods exclusively, which will save you money at the checkout.
Shop Without Your Children
Even though back-to-school shopping is intended for children, doing it without them might relieve stress and help you remain within your budget. When it comes to buying for themselves, kids have a lot of views, and their preferences may not line with saving money.
According to a study from Statista, the average projected back-to-school expenditure per family in the United States has steadily climbed year on year, reaching around $865 in 2022. Child pressure can significantly increase this figure.
We all know how influential kids can be on shopping excursions, so although it’s good to make your list with them at home when it’s time to go shopping, go alone. This way, you’ll be less tempted to spend more than what’s on your list.
Buy Used Things
When browsing garage sales, thrift stores, and consignment shops, you’re likely to find a range of preloved goods at low costs, from quality backpacks to gently worn apparel.
Check out eBay, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace for inexpensive PCs and cell phones. Items for sale are often in pristine condition or still in their original packaging, which is wonderful news if you like purchasing new gadgets. Before buying an item, be sure you meet the vendor and try it out. Don’t be scared to haggle over the price. You may also use these platforms to sell old stuff to acquire funds for new school supplies.
Look at Different Textbook Possibilities
It goes without saying that textbooks are pricey. However, there are shops where you may get them at a reduced price. Look into online markets such as Amazon, Chegg, Campusbooks, and eBay, which offer old textbooks for a fraction of the price of a new one. These internet markets are a fantastic resource for college students.
Check with your local library as well. They have certain textbooks available for borrowing, or they may be able to get them via inter-library lending. Another alternative is to save money on shipping by downloading electronic versions of textbooks. Don’t forget that at the end of the year, you may sell obsolete textbooks on the internet markets.
Conclusion
Plan early to save money on back-to-school goods during the expensive 2022 season. When you’re not using tools like these to help you save money, it’s tempting to purchase that additional gadget or that costly backpack.
Whether you’re searching for new pens or a new outfit, there are always ways to be more cost-conscious and locate better offers. You can guarantee your kid has all they need to excel in school without spending a lot by following these easy guidelines.