Back-to-school shopping is taking off, with families scrambling to stock up on necessary items for the new academic year. Recent surveys from the National Retail Federation reveal spending is expected to soar to $38.8 billion this season.
It's not just parents buying supplies; kids are making choices, too. For example, TikTok influencer Christy showcased her school supply shopping trip, totaling $170.23 for merely the essentials listed by teachers, excluding backpacks and lunch boxes.
The cost of supplies can widely vary depending on the child's grade. Students heading to college often face higher expenses due to the need for laptops and other electronics.
Extras like extracurricular activities also add to the budget. Surveys from Deloitte indicate parents plan to spend roughly $582 for average school expenses per child.
A significant concern this year is the impact of inflation. Nearly one-third of parents report struggles to afford back-to-school shopping, leading some to potentially incur debt for their children's needs.
Experts are advocating for strategic shopping to ease financial strain. Tips include starting early to take advantage of sales and comparing prices across various retailers.
Some retailers are experiencing fewer markdowns this year, making wise choices more critical. Parents are advised to check loyalty programs and discount codes to maximize their shopping efficiency.
Buying supplies together with other families can lead to savings as well. Teaming up offers the chance to split costs for bulk purchases.
Amazon is notorious for its convenience; yet, parents should be wary of inflated prices at this retail giant. School supplies like crayons tend to cost more there compared to discount retailers.
Tax-free weekends present excellent opportunities for budgeting families. Over a dozen states allow consumers to purchase school clothing and supplies without sales tax, benefiting those who need pricier items like laptops.
Even with budgets tight, it’s important to avoid unnecessary purchases. A quick home inventory can reveal leftover supplies, preventing excess spending.
Experts suggest delaying certain purchases, especially clothing, until after the start of school. Waiting can mean better deals as retailers clear inventory for holiday products.
While school shopping can be hectic and pricey, making informed decisions can greatly reduce costs. Planning, patience, and savvy shopping techniques stand out as the best strategies for making this back-to-school season financially manageable.
Whether it’s checking local sales, joining bulk-buying groups, or using tax holidays, there are plenty of ways for families to save. Amid economic pressures, knowing what to buy and when might just be the difference between stress and savvy shopping.
