Back to school!
August has arrived, and in a few short weeks, everyone will be heading back to school. Whether you have a youngin going to kindergarten or an “adult” heading off to college, going back to school can be expensive. In fact, the National Retail Federation, parents are expected to spend approximately $696 per child for primary school and $976 per college student. Here are five easy ways to save you some cash this school season.
GO THROUGH THE SCHOOL SUPPLIES YOU ALREADY HAVE
Get out that tub full of half used notebooks, markers, and folders because you probably already have a good amount of supplies already. While you go through everything, organize supplies with baggies or small containers to make it easier to see what you have and what you need.
CONSIGNMENT STORES, GARAGE SALES, AND THRIFT SHOPS
Check out these places for clothes, bookbags, and shoes at low low prices. It can be a great way to save some money while also getting a few new things for your kids’ wardrobe. Consignment stores, garage sales, and thrift shops are also great for finding cheap kitchen supplies and home goods for college students.
CHECK THE DOLLAR STORE
Chances are your kids will lose multiple pencils, pens, erasers, and crayons. Check the dollar store for cheap supplies that you don’t have to worry about your kids losing.
BUY GENTLY USED TEXTBOOKS
Most college campus bookstores jack up the price on books. Instead of paying that price, look on Amazon or Chegg to find the textbooks your kid needs.
… OR DON’T BUY THE BOOK AFTERALL
Patience is key when it comes to buying college textbooks. Some professors list books, but will only use them once or twice. Wait until the first day of class to see if the professor will actually use the book.
DO PRICE COMPARISONS
Look online at multiple stores and save yourself the money, time, and energy it takes to go in to multiple stores and search for a good deal. This is a great way to find good deals on more expensive items, especially for dorm shopping. In addition, you can get online coupons through various apps like Honey that search the internet for coupons.