Between book bags, lunchboxes, shoes, and a nearly endless list of school and classroom supplies, back to school shopping can really add up. In addition to the initial costs, kids just keep growing, so school clothes typically have to be replenished throughout the year. Below are some easy ways parents can save on school clothes this year and get the best deals.
Shop Used
Shopping consignment shops or yard sales can help drastically reduce your bill, while still allowing you to get cute and high quality clothes. Consignment shopping has increased significantly in popularity, as families seek to save money and benefit the environment. If you are interested, there is likely a consignment shop in your area and there are also many reputable online shops that sell quality used clothing at a fraction of the cost of new.
Take Advantage of Coupons and Sales
Many stores offer deep discounts, online deals, and coupons to loyal customers. Take advantage of these sales and coupons. If you need coupons for a certain store and have already used yours, ask around with friends. Swapping coupons is a great way to help ensure everyone gets coupons they can best use. Don’t throw away unused coupons or go shopping at your favorite store without some on hand. The internet and social media have made coupon swapping even easier and more convenient. Sites like Discountrue also offer brand name discounts like kohls.com coupons and more.
Think Gender Neutral When Appropriate
If you have multiple children, hand-me-downs can be a huge help when it comes to saving money. Unfortunately, if you have children of the opposite gender, the opportunities to pass clothes down are much fewer. Think ahead and try to buy gender neutral when appropriate. Most clothing available is gendered one way of the other, but other items such as rain slickers, snow pants, and mud boots can easily be gender neutral and passed down from boy to girl or vice versa.
Make a List
Though typically thought of when going to the grocery store, making lists can be just as beneficial to the school shopper. It is easy to get sucked into the vortex of school supplies and clothes and over-buy on certain items while forgetting others. If you have children shopping with you, it can become a free-for-all as they toss things into the cart. Having a disciplined approach and a list that needs checked off can make shopping less chaotic and less expensive.
Back to school time is full of change, excitement, and apprehension for many kids and families. Trying to make school shopping fun and special for kids without breaking your wallet can be difficult, but not impossible. Keep your eyes open for deals and be creative with how and where you spend your money.
