Right now you may be deep into your summer routine of lazy afternoons at the lake, family day trips and bedtimes postponed in favor of firefly-chasing, but back-to-school season is already in full swing. And, any way you slice it, it’s going to be expensive!
With long lists that include new backpacks, textbooks, supplies and a fresh fall wardrobe, most parents are looking at a bill of close to $800 for school-related expenses this season. Being proactive can save you BIG! Read on for our handy list of back-to-school shopping savings tips that will help you keep more money in your wallet.
1. Stock Up Now On Sale Items
While your child doesn’t need a 6-month supply of No.2 pencils for the first day of school or five spare pocket-folders, if you buy enough school supplies while prices are low to last through the first half of the year — or even all the way through the end of the school year — you’ll save big.
2. Take Advantage Of Loss Leaders
Every week during back-to-school season, stores will advertise one product at a super-low price. This is their loss leader, an item priced so cheaply that retailers actually lose money on sales. Of course, the bargain-priced product attracts customers, so it’s worthwhile for the retailer, but all you need to worry about is snagging those ridiculous prices. Make sure you catch those hot deals!
3. Shop Local
Before you hit the typical retail stores, shop for real bargains at stores in your local communities. Many offer great prices, larger inventory and great bargains!
4. Look For Manufacturer Coupons
Comb flyers for manufacturer coupons from supply companies like Bic and Mead. You can also find them in magazines geared toward parents like Parenting.
5. Coordinate With Other Parents
To help you get the best deals and save some time, work together with other parents of school-aged kids. If you’re in a store when they have their penny deals on pencils and you can get a box of 24 for just $0.50, offer to buy a few boxes for your friend’s kids. And, when your friend finds the super-hot deal on crayons, they’ll pick up a few boxes for your kids. That’s money saved and fewer trips to the store.
6. Take Advantage Of Price-Matching
Many stores you’ll be shopping at this season offer to match any competitor’s prices. Take advantage of this generous offer by coming prepared with an online price posting of a cheaper item you’ve found elsewhere. You’ll visit fewer stores this way and save money, too.
7. Shop Early In The Week
Weekly sales typically begin on Sundays and the best stuff items are grabbed first. Shop Sundays and Mondays so you never miss out on a great deal again.
Save big this season with First National Community Bank’s back-to-school shopping savings tips!