It's the end of July, and chances are that you know a parent who is getting excited about the kids going back to school.
For most school districts, classes start in just a few short weeks. Before you know it, kids will be back in a routine that includes backpacks, permission slips, homework and fall activities.
Before you get there, though, you might need to do some back-to-school shopping. Kids will need notebooks and pens, clothes and maybe even a new computer or tablet. While there are sales, those purchases can add up quickly.
Here are four major ways to save on school supplies:
1. Take Inventory First
Before shopping, check what your student already has. Chances are that you can find a few unused notebooks, pens, pencils, binders, folders and more in your house. Knowing what you already have can help you avoid duplicate purchases.
This is particularly helpful with clothes. Try on things for fall and winter and figure out what still fits and what needs to be replaced before you go shopping. Also, try to shop for items that will be versatile across seasons and with multiple outfits. Vintage is trendy these days, so hit up the thrift stores to save on unique pieces!
2. Take Advantage of Sales and Tax-Free Holidays
Here in Virginia, tax-free shopping weekend is August, 1 - 3. From 12:01 a.m. Friday, August 1 through 11:59 p.m. Sunday, August 3, the Commonwealth gives you a break from paying sales taxes on all sorts of things, including school supplies. Emergency preparedness items and some appliances are included, too. For more information, go to www.tax.virginia.gov/virginia-sales-tax-holiday.
Be sure to look for sales, too! Comparison shopping is really important, and it may be worthwhile for you to get some supplies from one store and other supplies from another.
3. Use Student Discounts and Buy Refurbished
Several technology companies and stores like Apple, Dell, and Best Buy offer student discounts or sales on laptops and accessories. Consider certified refurbished tech—you can get a "like new" computer or tablet that's going to be much cheaper than buying new. Plus, those items often come with a free warranty to protect you.
4. Stick to the School List (and Shop Discount Stores First)
Don't overbuy! Especially for younger children, schools will often provide a specific list of what students will need. Places like Dollar Tree, Target’s bargain section, Five Below or warehouse clubs like BJ's or Costco often have better deals than office supply stores. But, again, check those sale flyers and look for coupons!
For some items, buying in bulk is cheaper, so partnering with another parent can help. You can buy in bulk and split up supplies for the students before the first day of class.
We hope these tips are helpful as the school year comes closer, and check out the replay of our recent, webinar, "Tips for Back-To-School Shopping" hosted by our partners at GreenPath for more tips. Remember, we're here for you — and that includes helping your kids learn about finances! Consider spending some time before school checking out the kid-friendly financial education tools on our website, including fun It's a Money Thing videos and the Centsables program, youth accounts and more.
Have a great school year, from all of us at CommonWealth One!
