Much like anything else in life, back-to-school shopping can cost you a small fortune, or you can get the deal of a lifetime. It all depends on how you approach it.
To get you started, we’ve put together a quick list of ways to save big with a few tricks and tips of the trade:
1. Reduce, reuse, and recycle: There is absolutely no shame in reusing perfectly good supplies from last year, despite what your child may tell you. Pencil cases and binders can be cleaned up easily, and you probably already have a surplus of pens and pencils that can be sent into school. Apply the idea to clothing items as well.
2. Deals, coupons, and sales, oh my! Watch out for any deals or sales that are going on. Typically stores will hold some sort of back-to-school promotions. The key is to not get caught up in the sale and buy for the sake of buying, totally negating the savings.
3. Hone in on your list making skills: Treat back-to-school shopping as you would a trip to the grocery store. Make a list and stick to it. This will also help you more clearly separate the wants from the needs.
4. Do your homework: Take the time to research everything beforehand. Find out from teachers which supplies are truly necessary, and which will be provided. Compare deals store to store, and compare online prices to in-store prices. The better prepared you are, the more you will save.
5. Remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day: There is absolutely no reason you have to buy everything all at once. Hold off on purchasing stuff such as fall clothing, since chances are, you won’t need it for a few more weeks. Wait to buy any supplies aside from the basics, and purchase additional items when necessary.
How do you save big on back-to-school supplies? Ever consider hosting a community swap for your shopping needs? If so, consider listing your swapping event on our Swap Event pages to share with friends, family and neighbors!
(Photo by: Steven Depolo)
Swap.com Mobile is a free iPhone is app that lets you scan items into your HAVE and WANT lists, manage your account, see what you can get for your stuff, and participate in swaps.
