Back-to-School on a Budget: Tech, Supplies, and Clothes
As the new school year approaches, the list of things to buy can seem endless—tech gadgets, school supplies, clothes, and more. But shopping for back-to-school doesn’t have to break the bank.
With a little planning and smart shopping strategies, you can get everything your kids need without overspending.
Here’s how to shop for back-to-school on a budget:
Tech: Affordable devices and insurance protection
Tech gadgets like laptops, tablets, and smartphones are now often mandatory for students. Check with your school supply list and if you do need to provide tech for your student, here’s how to save on school computers and more:
Shop for refurbished devices:
Try buying refurbished or certified pre-owned devices from reputable retailers. These products are often significantly cheaper and can still come with warranties, guaranteeing they work like new.
Take advantage of student discounts:
Many tech companies and retailers offer discounts for students. Apple, Microsoft, and Dell, among others, provide special pricing for students, so make sure to check for these deals. You may also find perks through your workplace or your school.
Consider buying last year's model:
The latest tech gadgets are always expensive, but models from previous years are usually discounted significantly and work just as well. The slight difference in features (usually storage space, camera quality, or screen resolution) may not justify the higher price tag.
Insurance for school devices:
With kids carrying expensive tech devices, it’s wise to consider insurance. Many schools offer insurance plans for school-issued devices like laptops or tablets. Alternatively, you can explore third-party insurance options that cover accidental damage, theft, and loss. This small investment can save you a lot of money in the long run if your student drops, loses, or damages their tech devices.
Some home insurance policies have limits and exclusions for gadgets and electronics. Check the details of your home insurance policy to see how the theft, damage, or loss of these gadgets would be covered. You may need extra insurance coverage for these tech devices.
Supplies: Smart shopping for school essentials
School supplies can add up quickly, but there are ways to keep costs down:
Create a list and stick to It:
Start with a detailed list of what your child actually needs. This helps avoid impulse purchases of unnecessary items.
Buy in bulk:
For items like notebooks, pens, and folders, buying in bulk can be more cost-effective, especially if you have multiple children. You could even keep extra supplies for future years. Staples often has great bulk options.
Shop during sales:
Keep an eye out for back-to-school sales, which typically start in mid-July and run through August, but don’t box yourself into the “back-to-school” box. Amazon and other online shops might have excellent deals without targeting them toward students specifically. Try searching for “discounted office supplies” as well.
Use coupons and cashback apps:
Look for coupons in-store or online and use cashback apps like Rakuten or Honey to get rebates on your purchases. You might also be able to use store-specific rewards programs or credit rewards programs through your bank.
Clothes: Dressing for less
Kids grow fast, and keeping up with their clothing needs can be expensive. Here’s how to manage:
Inventory what you have:
Before buying anything new, go through your child’s current wardrobe to see what still fits and is in good condition. This will help you avoid buying duplicates. Consider putting together one or two capsule wardrobes for your student so that it’s easy to mix and match outfits and keep track of pieces that need to be repaired or replaced.
Shop off-season:
Buy winter clothes in spring and summer clothes in the fall when they are often deeply discounted. Look out for special online shopping deal days or local deal days at your mall or superstore.
Check out thrift stores:
Thrift stores and consignment shops can be goldmines for gently used, fashionable clothing at a fraction of the cost. You could also mend damaged or pre-worn clothes at home or at a tailor quickly. Taking a pair of shoes or an outfit to the shoemaker or tailor is still often cheaper than buying a new quality item.
Swap with friends and family:
Organize a clothing swap with friends, family members, or your local school co-op. This is a great way to refresh your child’s wardrobe without spending any money.
Shopping for back-to-school on a budget doesn’t have to be stressful. By planning ahead, taking advantage of sales, and being mindful of your purchases, you can prepare your kids for the school year without overspending.
And remember to check out insurance for those tech devices—it's a small cost that can save you big in case of an accident. Happy shopping!
