Tax-free weekend is over in most states, but back-to-school sales continue. You can make last-minute savings, but time is of the essence and the longer you wait, the fewer deals you’ll see.
American adults are expected to spend an average of $662 on back-to-school grocery shopping this year, according to our most recent survey. I am one of them. Shopping for two kids who need all the trendy, colorful back-to-school supplies makes it easy to go over budget. With uniforms, a new backpack, and a few other unforeseen school needs, I already have $500 to get started. of the school year and I’m done.
I spoke with Rita-Soledad Fernández Paulino, a money advisor, member of CNET’s Expert Review Committee, and mom who knows all too well the temptation to overspend on back-to-school shopping. Fernández Paulino, who is attending the Soledad call, gave me a recommendation that remodeled the way I buy school supplies, and I must say, it works. Here is Solead’s strategy and how I use it.
Shopping for back-to-school groceries may seem easier if you just make a stop at the store in person, but then your little ones (and you) might be tempted to buy way more than you need. Also, you may have to do it. Going to the points of sale to cross everything off the list, which can make the temptation even greater.
“Kids can temporarily start adding small accessories, new lunch boxes and new water bottles,” Soledad said. “Planning ahead, buying groceries online, and just scheduling a pickup is one way to allow you to get your kids to and from them. ”
To stay focused, Soledad recommends shopping for groceries online and opting for pickup, shipping, or delivery. This way, you can make sure you have what you want and that you’re intentional with your money. I even do this for my weekly trips to Target, to walking down the toy aisle or buying too many décor items for the house.
When you buy materials online, you can read reviews to feel confident in your purchases. It’s also easy to remove parts from your cart to stick to a strict budget.
What I like most about Soledad’s advice is that you can worry your kids and teach them a little about finances along the way. For example, I let my 8 year old son decide between 4 school backpacks online and they are all within my budget and on sale. I was able to save time, make a deal and get the one she loved.
Read more: Where to buy back-to-school school supply deals online
Even if you or your kids prefer to shop on the user for back-to-school, you still want to plan ahead and set a budget. I recently took my son grocery shopping at Target and gave him the strength to pick up his supplies. We had planned for $30. He chose less expensive pieces to stay within his budget (like solid-colored binders instead of glitter binders) so he could keep his $10 Squishmallow pencil case. The advantage? I stayed within my own budget and that was a vital money lesson for her.
If you’re looking for other tactics to save on back-to-school shopping, don’t compare costs in-store and shop online first to see what you can check off your list. Here is a list of states with upcoming taxes. Exempt permits.
If you’re looking for other tactics to teach your kids about private finances, here are some tips from my colleague and another parent teaching their kids how to save money.
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