Summer goes by quickly — just like the money in consumer’s wallets once back-to-school shopping begins.
July kicks off the second busiest shopping season of the year with the average family spending almost $700 on school-related items. Most parents are eager to find ways to cut back. Here are 10 ways to save money on back-to-school shopping from the experts:
1. Reuse and repurpose supplies — Print the list and see what you already have on hand.
2. Set a budget and make a list — Before you shop, sit down with your kids to set a budget and make a list.
3. Clip coupons with the kids — Sale items matched with coupons save the most money.
4. Shop during tax-free days — August is the most popular month for states to offer tax-free shopping.
5. Find consignment sales — Consignment sales offer a great way to save money on kids' clothes.
6. Host a clothing swap — Set up a time to meet, bring outgrown clothes and start swapping.
7. Remember thrift shops — The merchandise rotates frequently.
8. Don't skip big-name stores — Some stores let you bring in the receipt to collect the difference.
9. Create a shopping team and buy in bulk — Get together with other parents to create a back-to-school shopping team.
10. Wait to buy — If your kid is begging for that absolutely-can't-live-without item and it's not within your budget, wait a few weeks.