Back-to-school season can be exciting, but it can also be overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to shop on a budget. Costs can quickly accumulate with all the new supplies, clothes, shoes, and gadgets your child needs. But don’t worry, back-to-school shopping doesn’t have to break the bank. With a little planning and some smart shopping strategies, you can get everything your child needs without overspending. In this article, I share some simple, practical tips to help you save money while still checking off everything on your back-to-school list.
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Make a List and Stick to It
Before you think about stepping into a store or shopping online, sit down and make a detailed list of everything your child needs for school. This might include things like notebooks, pens, pencils, a backpack, and maybe some new clothes or shoes. Having a clear list will help you stay focused and avoid impulse buying.
Once you’ve made your list, try your best to stick to it. It’s easy to get distracted by flashy sales or things that seem like “must-haves,” they’re probably not essential if they’re not on your list. The more disciplined you are with sticking to your list, the less likely you’ll be to overspend.
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Shop Your Home First
You might be surprised by how many school supplies you already have at home. Before shopping, take inventory of what’s lying around the house. Maybe you have extra notebooks, pens, or even a good backpack from last year that can be reused.
Check your child’s wardrobe as well. They may already have clothes and shoes that still fit and are in good condition. Using what you already have significantly reduces what you need to buy, saving time and money.
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Set a Budget and Prioritize
Once you know what’s on your list and what you already have, it’s time to set a realistic budget. Decide how much you’re willing (and able) to spend on back-to-school shopping. This will help you avoid going overboard and spending more than you intended.
Prioritize the most important items on your list—things your child needs immediately. For example, if your child’s backpack is falling apart, that might be a priority, while new clothes could potentially wait until a later sale. Prioritizing will help you focus on the essentials and avoid spending money on less urgent items.
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Look for Sales and Deals
Timing your shopping with sales can make a huge difference. Back-to-school sales usually start in August, so keep an eye out for fliers, online promotions, and store emails. Sign up for email alerts from your favourite stores to be notified when sales start. Don’t forget to check online retailers for deals on school supplies. Compare prices across different stores, and don’t be afraid to use coupons or discount codes. A little bit of effort can go a long way toward saving money.
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Buy in Bulk for Future Use
Buying in bulk can be a great way to save money on school supplies, especially for items like pencils, paper, and glue sticks that your child will need throughout the year. It might cost a bit more upfront, but you’ll save money in the long run because you won’t have to keep buying the same items later. You can also split bulk purchases with other parents. For example, if you buy a big pack of markers or notebooks, you can share them with another family to save costs.
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Consider Second-Hand or Thrift Stores
Don’t overlook second-hand stores and thrift shops for bigger ticket items like clothes and backpacks. Many of these stores have gently used items in great condition for a fraction of the price. Some stores even have specific “back-to-school” sections where you can find everything from clothes to shoes to accessories. Online marketplaces like jiji.ng can also be great places to find gently used items at a discount. Just be sure to check the condition before buying and make sure it’s something your child will feel comfortable using or wearing.
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Avoid Buying Everything All at Once
You don’t have to buy everything in one shopping trip. Instead, spread your purchases out over time, especially if your child doesn’t need everything right away. For example, you can buy basic supplies now and wait until mid-year sales to pick up new clothes or shoes. Also, some teachers will give a detailed list of required supplies after school starts, so hold off on buying extra things until you know exactly what’s needed. This will prevent you from buying unnecessary items.
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Get Creative with DIY Supplies
If you’re feeling crafty, consider making school supplies with your child. You can decorate plain notebooks with stickers, tape, drawings, or personalized labels for binders and folders. This can be a fun way to bond with your child while saving money on expensive branded supplies. Plus, your child will love using something they helped create, and it adds a special, personal touch to their school gear.
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Take Advantage of Rewards Programs
Many stores offer rewards programs that can help you save money over time. Sign up for their rewards program if you frequently shop at a particular store for school supplies. You will accumulate points for your purchases, which can be redeemed for future discounts or free items. Some credit cards also offer cashback on school-related purchases, so consider using one that gives you rewards for your back-to-school shopping.
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Teach Your Child About Budgeting
Involve your child in the budgeting process. This is a great opportunity to teach them about money management and the value of staying within a budget. Give them a portion of the shopping budget for certain items and let them decide what to buy. This way, they’ll learn to prioritize and make smarter financial choices.
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Final Thoughts
Back-to-school shopping doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive. By being organized, planning, and looking for smart deals, you can stick to your budget while getting everything your child needs for a successful school year. Plus, teaching your child the value of budgeting and smart shopping will help them develop good financial habits for the future. The goal is to ensure your child is well-prepared for school—without breaking the bank!
Featured Image Source: The Online Mom
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This article was first published on 6th September 2024 and updated on September 7th, 2024 at 6:12 pm
chidiogo-akaelu
Chidiogo Shalom Akaelu holds a degree in English and Literary Studies, from the University of Nigeria. She is a freelance writer, editor and founder of Loana Press, a budding online publishing outlet.
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