Back-to-school shopping doesn’t have to break the bank. With a bit of planning and strategy, you can save money without compromising on quality or needs. Here are a few tips to help you effectively save when shopping for back-to-school items:

• Make a list and set a budget: Before heading out to shop, make a comprehensive list of everything you need. Setting a budget helps you prioritize and avoid overspending on impulse buys.
• Take advantage of sales and discounts: Keep an eye on advertisements from local stores and online retailers for discounts on school supplies and clothing. Many stores also offer special promotions like buy-one-get-one-free deals or bundle offers that can significantly reduce costs.
• Shop online for convenience and deals: Online shopping often provides more opportunities for comparison shopping and finding deals. Additionally, signing up for newsletters or following social media accounts of retailers can give you early access to promotions and exclusive discounts.
• Consider second-hand and thrift stores: For clothing, consider shopping at second-hand stores or thrift shops. You can often find gently used clothing items at a fraction of their original cost.
• Buy in bulk for commonly used items: For necessities like notebooks, pens, and pencils, buying in bulk can save money in the long run. Splitting bulk purchases with friends or other parents can be a cost-effective strategy.
• Plan for future needs: Stock up on items that will likely be needed throughout the school year when they are on sale. This prevents last-minute purchases at higher prices.

By following these tips, you can make back-to-school shopping a more budget-friendly experience without sacrificing the quality or quantity of items needed for the new school year.

This article was drafted with the aid of AI. Additional content, edits for accuracy, and industry expertise by Megan Brindle, manager of F&M Trust’s Orchard Park Community Office.