Back-to-School Shopping Hacks

Back-to-School Shopping Hacks
Stretch Your Dollars and Start the School Year Strong

As the summer winds down, families across the country are getting ready for the back-to-school season. But between supplies, clothes, shoes, and electronics, the costs can quickly add up. The good news? With a little planning and a few clever tricks, you can save money while still checking off everything on your student’s list.

Here are some smart back-to-school shopping hacks to help you stay on budget:

1. Take Inventory First

Before you head to the store, check what you already have at home. Last year’s leftover notebooks, unused pens, or gently worn backpacks can still do the job. You might be surprised how many school supplies are hiding in drawers or closets.

2. Make a List (and Stick to It)

Impulse buys are a budget’s worst enemy. Creating a detailed shopping list helps you focus only on what you need. Many schools provide supply lists online—use those as your guide and avoid straying from the essentials.

3. Time Your Shopping

Retailers often stagger sales throughout July, August, and early September. Big-ticket items like laptops or calculators might be cheaper during tax-free weekends or Labor Day sales. Wait until closer to the start of school for steeper discounts on supplies and clothing.

4. Use Coupons and Cashback Apps

Combine store promotions with digital coupons, loyalty rewards, and cashback apps like Rakuten, Ibotta, or Target Circle to double up on savings. Don’t forget to check your credit union’s debit or credit card rewards, too—you might earn points or cashback just for using your card.

5. Buy in Bulk—Then Split

Warehouse clubs like Costco or Sam’s Club offer great deals on bulk school supplies. Team up with friends or family members and split the cost. Everyone saves, and no one ends up with 200 pencils they don’t need.

6. Shop Secondhand

Kids grow fast. For clothing, shoes, and even backpacks, consider gently used options from thrift stores, consignment shops, or online marketplaces. Many of these items are in like-new condition at a fraction of the price.

7. Wait on Trendy Items

Not everything needs to be bought before the first day. Let your child settle into their new classroom or locker routine before buying trendy accessories, lunch boxes, or decor they may not end up using.

8. Buy Quality Where It Counts

Sometimes spending a little more upfront can save you long-term. Sturdy backpacks, durable binders, or quality shoes often last the whole school year—and beyond—while cheaper versions may need replacing mid-year.

9. Take Advantage of Student Discounts

If your child is heading to high school or college, keep an eye out for student discounts on tech, software, or subscriptions. Companies like Apple, Microsoft, and Adobe often offer lower education pricing for students.

Back-to-school shopping doesn’t have to break the bank. With these hacks, you can shop smarter, save more, and start the school year feeling financially prepared. And remember, Elevate is here to help, with tools and resources to support your financial goals year-round!