10 Best Ways to Save on Back to School Shopping

Back-to-school shopping doesn’t have to break the bank—or your sanity. Between supply lists, growing kids, and the pressure to have everything “just right,” it’s easy to overspend before the first bell even rings.

But with a little strategy (and a few savvy tricks up your sleeve), you can score all the essentials and keep your budget in check.

Here are the best ways to save money while still sending your kids back to school in style and fully prepared!

How to Save BIG on Back to School Spending

1. Shop Your Home First

You’d be surprised how many supplies are hiding in drawers and closets. Check the basement, cabinets, and kids’ rooms for supplies that are still in excellent shape.

If you buy ahead when things are on sale, don’t forget these items too. I once forgot that I bought a lunch box 6 months earlier, only to buy another one!

2. Create a Budget (and Stick to It!)

Next, know your limits before the sales start tempting you. Look at your finances and write the exact number down, so you know what you’re dealing with.

This is a great time to get your kids involved in budgeting! Tell them how much the budget is and have them help you stay within it. They can pick and choose items just as you would in a monthly budget.

3. Buy Only What’s on the List

Stick to the essentials and skip the “just in case” items. You can always grab them later!

4. Use Coupons and Cashback

Stack store coupons with cashback apps like Rakuten or Ibotta. Or use up your credit card reward points for back to school shopping.

5. Check Dollar Stores

These stores can be super helpful for basic supplies that kids are hard on. Things like folders, pencils, glue sticks, and even socks!

6. Shop Tax-Free Weekend

Take advantage of your state’s sales tax holiday if available. Put it on your calendar ahead, so you won’t be surprised when it rolls around.

7. Split Bulk Deals with Friends

Costco and Sam’s Club have great deals this time of year, but you might not need the larger quantity they offer. Split it with neighbors or friends so that everyone benefits from killer savings.

8. Thrift or Find Secondhand Clothes

Kids grow fast! Picking up gently used clothes is a huge money-saver when kids are small. Or host a swap with other families – you can do this with clothes or extra school supplies.

9. Buy Generic or Store Brands

When we’re talking about kids school supplies, quality is often comparable to name brands for way less.

10. Delay Buying Some Items

Yes, not everything needs to be bought before school starts. If you wait just a few weeks, you can often find what you need on clearance.

On a super tight budget? Sell your old stuff! Make room and earn cash by selling last year’s backpacks, clothes, or electronics.

What’s Next?

What are your favorite tips for saving on back to school shopping? Share in the comments so that we can all learn!

Plus, learn more financial life hacks and more with the Wealthy Woman Newsletter below.