5+ Ways to Save on Back to School Shopping Costs

Are you dreading the back-to-school shopping costs this year?

Every August I used to feel the pinch when school supply lists would arrive—but over the years I’ve learned some smart ways to save.

These five strategies can help you stretch your back-to-school budget without the stress.

NerdWallet’s 2025 survey estimates U.S. parents spend around $741 per child on back-to-school supplies on average.

With some practical planning and these tried-and-true strategies, you can cut costs without compromising on quality.

I know some of us are still basking in the summer sun and ignoring the fact that shorter school days are just around the corner.

But I was surprised to see several trees have already begun to change their colors, and I couldn’t ignore the fact that the back to school sales have already begun.

I read this news report a couple of years ago that stated that the average parents are spending up to $890 on Back to School!

We’ve always homeschooled, and even with paying for curriculum and outside classes, I don’t think we’ve ever come close to spending what the average family does on back-to-school shopping.

Maybe I’m out of touch with how expensive traditional schooling can be these days—but wow, the numbers seem a little outrageous to me!

That said, whether your kids are homeschooled, in public school, or somewhere in between, there are ways to save.

In addition to keeping an eye on my Back-to-School Deals, I’ve pulled together a few tried-and-true tips that helped our family stretch every dollar during the school season.

Five Ways to Save on Back to School Shopping

These are simple strategies I’ve used personally.

With a little planning, you can get everything your kids need, without blowing your budget.

Take an inventory

Start your back-to-school shopping journey by taking inventory of what your children already have.

Check their closets and dressers to identify what clothing items they can reuse.

Make a list of the essential items they truly need for the start of the school year, and save the rest for later when the weather changes.

Set a Budget and Stick to It

Sit down with your kids and set a realistic budget for back-to-school shopping.

This step not only ensures that everyone is on the same page but also teaches your children about financial responsibility.

When you establish a spending limit, it helps avoid unnecessary expenses and impulse purchases while in the stores.

Plan Ahead for the Best Deals

Make the most of back-to-school sales by planning ahead.

Sign up for your favorite store’s email newsletters to receive daily updates on sales and available coupons.

Consider stocking up on school supplies during these sales so you have extras for when your child runs out later in the year.

Take Advantage of Tax-Free Weekends

Many states offer sales tax holidays during back-to-school season, which can save you even more—especially on big-ticket items like clothing, shoes, and even electronics.

Some states, like Florida and Texas, include tech items up to $1,500 (yes, even laptops!). These tax-free days usually fall between July and early August, so it’s worth planning your purchases around them.

Check your state’s tax-free weekend calendar here to see if you qualify.

Explore Thrift Stores for Clothing Bargains

Thrift stores can be a treasure trove for affordable clothing items like jeans and hoodies.

Use your budget to purchase things like shoes and undergarments new, while exploring thrift stores for quality second-hand finds.

You’d be surprised to discover brand new items or like-new pieces at great prices.

Check Out Dollar Stores

Dollar stores can be fantastic for scoring deals on school supplies throughout the year.

Keep an eye out for back-to-school sales in the weeks leading up to the new school year, and compare prices with other stores to ensure the best deals.

Be Prepared to Say No (with Compassion)

If you’re like me, saying “no” to your kids isn’t always easy.

Especially when it comes to back-to-school shopping.

You want them to feel prepared and excited, and it’s hard to turn them down when they ask for things that seem important.

But this can actually be a great opportunity to teach them about budgeting and making wise choices with money.

If shopping with your kids feels stressful, it’s totally okay to go without them if that’s an option.

Sometimes it’s just easier to stick to your list and budget without the extra pressure.

But if they do come along, think of it as a teaching moment.

Our kids need to learn that we can’t always get everything we want.

That’s just real life.

And when they see us making a list, following a budget, and saying no when something isn’t necessary, they’re learning too.

Being smart with money is a skill they’ll use forever.

And the earlier they start seeing how it works, the better prepared they’ll be when it’s their turn to make financial decisions on their own.

So even if it feels uncomfortable in the moment, just remember—you’re not being mean.

You’re being a great teacher.

Remember the True Purpose of School

Lastly, keep in mind that you are sending your kids to school to learn.

Of course we want them to feel confident and we all know that looking great helps, especially with older kids.

While looking good can boost confidence, remember that the primary goal of education is learning.

Reinforce to your children that their education matters more than material possessions.

Encourage them to focus on their studies and celebrate their achievements, as knowledge and growth are priceless.

But be careful that you are not sending the message that the way they look, or the things they have are more important that getting a great education!

Join Our Savings Group

Join our private members-only group for exclusive deals throughout the back-to-school season.

Let’s make this year’s back-to-school shopping a smart and budget-friendly experience for everyone!

I’m sharing tons of deals throughout the back to school season to help everyone save as much as they can this year.

More Back to School Stuff

If you liked this post on Back to School Savings, you’ll love these ones too!

• Cheapest School Uniform Deals – You’ll find deals for every age – kindergarten through high school.
• School Lunches Kids Love – simple tips to make sure kids eat their lunches at school.
• Free Student Planner – No matter what the success looks like for you and your family this year, a student planner can help your kids keep everything organized and more.
• Free Lunch Planner Kit – Get your kiddos in on the lunch planning this year, which makes it SO easy for everyone to get involved.
• Where to Find Cheap Textbooks – There are so many different ways to save money on expensive school textbooks.
• Printable Daily Routine Chart – One of the ways that you can be sure that your kids have the most successful school year yet is by teaching them how to live with simple daily routines.

With a little planning and smart shopping, you can start the year right without overspending.

What’s your favorite budget hack? Drop it in the comments or join my back-to-school savings group for more ideas.