August is back-to-school shopping season. Unfortunately, this year, the steep price increases of inflation push most people to be more budget conscious. But do not worry. There is help! To save on purchasing classroom essentials for you or your family, check out our money-saving tips below.
How to save money on elementary school supplies
The list for elementary-aged children schoolers can be extensive! The best way to save money for your child is to purchase generic brand items. After all, the store-brand disinfectant wipes will clean just as well as the others. Give them a try the next time you are back-to-school shopping.
Additionally, the same rule applies to clothing. Many big box retailers have similar styles as mall retailers at a fraction of the cost. Remember, at the end of the day, kids will be kids. They will most likely come home with clothes worn from playing or doing crafts. As the school year continues, they will also outgrow their current size. Because so, clothing is not the place to splurge.
Purchasing academic supplies for high school students
Shopping for high school students is different than shopping for their younger peers. Since they typically don’t have the same lengthy supply lists that elementary schoolers have, it’s all about purchasing things at the right price and at the right time.
For instance, the back-to-school sales may seem enticing, but you could save more if you wait a bit longer. After the kids return to school, retailers offer increased discounts because they expect demand to drop. Supplies like uniform shirts, folders, and even composition books go on clearance to alievate the inventory.
Understandably for some, waiting is not an option. The kids need their supplies for the first day. You could alter this back-to-school shopping tip to stock up on supplies for next year. Just be sure to size up on clothing and skip anything that will expire.
Back-to-school shopping for college students
Often, less is more when shopping for college, especially if your child is going to be a first-year student. The reason is because parents can get carried away in anticipation. Decorating the dorm room could become more expensive than expected. Creating specific lists and researching beforehand could alievate a lot of the costs.
Once your college student has had time to settle, you could always have more school supplies sent to them. Not only will this save you from spending money on unnecessary things, but it will also make moving into the dorms easier.
Do GOOD by helping our community
Want to donate to benefit local school children? Achieva Credit Union, the Hillsborough and Pinellas education foundations, and WFLA New Channel 8, will host a back-to-school drive.
Date: August 12th
Time: 6 AM to 1 PM
Place: 200 S. Parker St., Tampa, FL, 33606
If you can’t make it to the event, feel free to use the collection boxes in our Pinellas County branches until August 10th.
Need more money saving tips? Continue reading the Achieva Life Blog for additional finance, lifestyle, and employment content.
