Is the thought of your back-to-school shopping bill giving you a grade-A headache? We’re here to help with some tried and true strategies for saving, plus some new ones we’ve added for the 2024 back-to-school shopping season. Read on for some of the best deals we’ve gathered from around the interwebs, hacks to take advantage of the perfect times to shop, and other smart ways to keep your budget intact, and stick to your long-term financial goals.
Here’s your ultimate guide to serious savings on back-to-school shopping in 2024:
Top 5 Places to Find Back-to-School Deals
1. Office Depot’s Penny Deals
Office Depot often runs “penny deals” where you can get school supplies for just a few cents. These deals are usually available both in-store and online and include items like notebooks, glue, and markers.
2. Walmart’s Back-to-School Rollbacks
Walmart is known for its extensive back-to-school rollbacks, offering significant discounts on everything from school supplies to clothing. Keep an eye out for their weekly flyers and online deals, which often feature price cuts on school supplies like notebooks, pens, and backpacks.
3. Target’s Back-to-School Event
Target’s annual back-to-school event is typically packed with deals on school supplies, electronics, and dorm essentials. Save even more with their price match guarantee and additional discounts through the Target Circle program.
4. Amazon’s Back-to-School Store
Amazon’s dedicated back-to-school store blends a convenient online shopping experience (I.e., you don’t have to leave the sofa) with daily deals on essential school items. Use Amazon Prime for fast, free shipping and exclusive discounts.
5. Local Stores and Online Marketplaces
Don’t overlook local stores and online marketplaces like eBay and Facebook Marketplace. They often have exclusive discounts and promotions, especially from smaller, local businesses looking to attract back-to-school shoppers.
Top 5 Back-to-School Money-Saving Hacks
1. Bulk Up
Buying essentials like notebooks, pencils, and paper in bulk can lead to significant savings. Team up with other parents to buy supplies in bulk and split the cost. Stores like Costco and Sam’s Club offer bulk deals on school supplies.
2. Use Cashback Apps
Apps like Rakuten and Ibotta offer cash back on purchases at many retailers. Simply shop through the app or website, and earn a percentage back on your purchases.
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3. Go Tax-Free
Many states offer tax-free weekends in late summer, allowing you to save on sales tax for school-related purchases. This can be a great opportunity to buy higher-ticket items like laptops and tablets.
4. Sign Up for Store Newsletters
Unlock exclusive discounts and early access to sales by signing up for store newsletters. Many retailers reward their subscribers with special offers that aren’t available to the general public.
5. Opt for Refurbished Electronics
Save on laptops and tablets by purchasing certified refurbished devices. Retailers like Best Buy and Apple offer refurbished products that come with warranties and are often indistinguishable from new.
Additional Tips to Help You Save for the Back-to-School Season
In addition to the places and hacks mentioned above, here are some more strategies to help you save:
1. Don’t Procrastinate
Skip the last-minute rush (and higher prices) by starting your shopping early. Many stores begin their back-to-school sales in mid- to late July, so planning ahead can help you snag the best deals.
2. Price Match
Lots of stores will match lower prices from competitors, so always check for the best deal. Bring printouts or screenshots of lower prices to customer service to take advantage of price matching policies.
3. Take Advantage of Student Discounts
Some stores offer special discounts for students. Be sure to ask at checkout or search online for student-specific promo codes. Websites like UNiDAYS and Student Beans aggregate student discounts across multiple stores.
4. Recycle and Reuse
Before buying new supplies, see what items you can reuse from last year. Binders, backpacks, and even some stationery items may still be in good condition and can help cut down on costs.
5. Plan Your Budget (and Stick to It)
Set a budget for your back-to-school shopping to avoid overspending. Make a list of essential items and prioritize them over non-essentials. This can help you stay focused and financially disciplined.
6. Comparison Shop
Just because something is advertised as a deal doesn’t mean it’s the best price out there. Do your homework and compare prices online before making a purchase. Websites like PriceGrabber and Shopzilla can help you find the lowest prices.
7. Sign Up for Store Rewards
Many retailers offer loyalty programs that provide points or cash back on purchases. Sign up for these programs and use them to your advantage. Accumulated points can lead to significant savings on future purchases.
8. Embrace Second-Hand
Thrift stores and consignment shops often have gently used school supplies and clothing at a fraction of the cost of new items. This can be a sustainable and cost-effective way to shop for back-to-school necessities.
MoneyLion Has Your Back
Back-to-school shopping doesn’t have to mean overspending. We’re here to help you ensure your student has everything they need to make the grade without upending your budget.
Looking for even more money-saving hacks and financial tips? Download the MoneyLion app today.
