Back To School On A Budget

It’s that time of the year! Just when you thought the summer was starting, kids are rushing out to pick up pens and binders and the latest gadgets for their next year of school. This year approach your back to school shopping with a little more strategy to ensure that you stay on budget.

Ignore Trends

According to a survey by the National Retail Federation 65 percent of parents said more than half of their back to school purchases are made because of their child's influence. While you should listen to what your child needs, you also need to take into account what they actually need. Families with kids in elementary school through high school spend around $700 per child on back to school supplies, according to the survey.

A good middle ground is to buy a little of what they want and more of what they need. Buy trends and pricey name brands in moderation. Also, don’t get caught in the trap of buying them an entire new wardrobe just because it is the beginning of the year. If their sneakers fit and are in good shape, wait until they aren’t! Replacing them now is just an added expense that isn’t necessary.

Look Around

Everyone is having a sale so don’t settle on one retailer! You can see each store's sales online to track who has what you need at the best price. If you are in the market for higher ticket items like computers, graphing calculators and other electronics then keep a watchful eye as we head closer and closer to the fall.

Wait It Out

Just because the notebooks and pencils are on the shelves doesn't mean it's time to stock up just yet. You don’t want to buy things you won’t need! A good way to avoid buying things you ultimately won't use is to wait for the list from teachers and only buy what you need to. 

Stick To Your List

Make a list and stick to it! It is tempting to add on things at the last minute but that is how you go over budget. Treat back to school shopping as you would Christmas shopping and keep yourself on track.

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