Back-to-school can be a stressful time for all of us, especially when so many of us are struggling to make ends meet in this weak economy. I’ve thrown together a list of ways that you can save money this back-to-school season.
- Shop the sales
Every year stores that sell school supplies fall over each other to provide the best deals to get you to buy in their stores. Watch the flyers every week (Google the store name and the date of the flyer and you’ll find sneak previews of future sales). - Use coupons
Be sure to get your Sunday paper to clip the many coupons that are now out for school supplies. Check out Slickdeals.net for great coupon match-ups with your local grocery store – to make packing your kid’s lunches much easier on your pocketbook. - Hit the Dollar Store
I was just in the Dollar Store last week and there are tons of school supplies (and lunch snacks) for only $1. You’ll be nary to find school supplies anywhere for that price, so stock up while the deals last. - Target & WalMart are your friend
Why spend hundreds more at those malls stores when you can pick up some really great fashions at Target or WalMart. Sure, your kids may give you a hard time about it. Make a deal with them – one item at their favorite store and the basic staples (socks, underwear, jeans and t-shirts) at the discount chain. - Don’t overlook TJMaxx, Marshalls and AJ Wright
If your kiddies just can’t get enough of those brand names, be sure to hit the designer discount stores. Often you’ll find the labels your kids want at much, much less than department and specialty stores. - Get Cash Back
If you’re doing your shopping online this year, be sure to start off at Ebates. Not only do they have some of the best discounts online, but you also get a percentage (up to 10% in some cases) of your purchase right back in your pocket. Sign up at Ebates and get an additional $5 cash back with your first purchase. - Get Points
If you use a credit card and you aren’t getting points for your purchases, you’re definitely missing out. There are so many rewards cards out there with great rates and great programs that provide points for each purchase redeemable for anything from cash back to gift certificates to flights around the world. Be sure to pay off your balance each month to make the most of this benefit. - Take advantage of tax-free holidays
Many states are jumping on the tax-free holiday bandwagon by announcing special tax-free shopping days at this time of the year. If your state taxes clothing purchases (unlike Massachusetts) be sure to take advantage of these great holidays. Be sure to plan your day and get out early – it’s always a big shopping day! - Go Thrift-y
You’ve probably noticed the trend towards worn-out, raggedy type clothing. In fact, many of those higher end retailers are charging sky-high prices for something that looks like it came out of a thrift store. Wait a minute – why not go to the actual thrift store? You’re likely to pick up some great retro and lovingly-worn clothing that your kids will love. And reusing clothing is good for the environment. - Hit Craigslist and eBay
They’re the thrift stores of the information age. You’d be amazed at the deals you can find! Be sure to check out the “free” section on Craigslist. One person’s trash is another’s treasure.
Disclaimer: I wrote this blog post while participating in the TwitterMoms and Staples blogging program, making me eligible to get a $50 gift card. For more information on how you can participate, click here.
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I agree with you.You could also pick up some stuff at the Dollar Stores.I work at Family Dollar Retail store and we have plenty of stuff for cheap bargains.
Great post. It just amazes me to hear people talking about spending hundreds of dollars on school supplies, when there are bargains to be found everywhere.