Back-To-School/

10 Money-Saving Tips to Make Back-to-School Shopping Successful

Back-To-School Shopping- 10 Money-Saving Tips

Back-to-school season can be equal parts exciting and expensive. Between new clothes, supplies, lunch gear, and tech upgrades, costs can sneak up quickly—especially if you’re back-to-school shopping for more than one child. But the good news? With the right strategy, it’s totally possible to stick to your budget and still get everything your kids need to start the year off strong.

Here are 10 tried-and-true money-saving tips for back-to-school shopping that will help you stay in control of your wallet and your sanity.

1. Take Inventory Before You Begin Back-to-School Shopping

Before you even think about heading to the store or clicking “add to cart,” do a home inventory check. Open last year’s backpacks, peek inside desk drawers, and raid your office supplies.

You probably already own more than you realize—extra pens, unused notebooks, barely worn clothing, or forgotten lunchboxes. Doing this not only saves money, but helps you make a realistic shopping list based on what you actually need.

Pro Tip:

Trust me, I get it… between work, taking care of the kiddos, and trying to make time for yourself, doing a home inventory check can seem a bit overwhelming. Instead of trying to be “Supermom”/”Superdad”, make this a family activity. Set a timer for 15–20 minutes and have kids “shop the house” for usable supplies. Turn it into a scavenger hunt to keep it fun!

2. Set a Realistic Back-to-School Shopping Budget (and Stick to It)

Going in blind is the easiest way to blow your back-to-school shopping budget. Set a spending limit before shopping—and break it down into categories like:

When you have category-specific limits, you’re less likely to get carried away with “just one more cute notebook” or the latest brand-name backpack. Use budgeting apps like YNAB or Goodbudget, or go old-school with cash envelopes labeled by category. Having a physical or visual reminder of your limit helps curb impulse purchases.

3. Shop Your Home (and Get Creative)

Think beyond the pencil drawer. That extra pack of sticky notes from your work stash? That’s now part of your kid’s study toolkit. Those barely worn joggers from last fall? Still totally wearable.

We often overlook useful items we already own just because they aren’t labeled as “back-to-school.” But repurposing gently used items saves you from buying unnecessary duplicates.

What to look for:

  • Art supplies
  • Reusable water bottles
  • Calculator or headphones
  • Basic clothing like tees, leggings, and outerwear
  • Notebooks with plenty of blank pages

This approach also reinforces resourcefulness for kids—which is a lesson in itself!

4. Compare Prices Online Before Buying In-Store

Just because it’s on a shelf doesn’t mean it’s the best deal. In fact, brick-and-mortar pricing can often be higher than what you’d find online for the exact same product. Retailers are banking on urgency and convenience—especially during the back-to-school shopping rush—hoping shoppers won’t take the time to look elsewhere.

But this is where you can be a savvy saver.

Why Price Comparison Matters:

Back-to-school shopping often involves dozens of small-ticket items—binders, glue sticks, notebooks, pencils, highlighters—that can add up fast. Finding a few cents (or dollars) of savings on each item can easily shave $50–$100 or more off your total cost, especially if you’re shopping for multiple kids or stocking up for a classroom.

Online retailers also run:

  • Flash sales
  • Time-limited discounts
  • Exclusive online bundles
  • Digital-only clearance items

…all of which may not be available in-store.

How to Compare Prices Efficiently:

You don’t have to hop from tab to tab manually searching for every product. These tools do the heavy lifting:

Honey Logo

Honey (browser extension)

  • Automatically applies coupon codes at checkout
  • Alerts you if there’s a lower price available on the same product elsewhere
  • Tracks price history so you know whether to buy now or wait
Rakuten Logo

Rakuten

  • Gives you cashback when you shop through their links
  • Often stacks with store promotions, giving you double savings
  • Works at stores like Staples, Office Depot, and Target
Google Shopping Logo png

Google Shopping

  • Type in a product name (e.g., “Crayola 24-pack crayons”) and see real-time pricing from dozens of stores
  • Use filters to compare prices by store, shipping options, and availability
  • Great for price-matching proof if you’re shopping in person

Don’t Forget Store Apps:

Many retailers offer exclusive deals, app-only coupons, or welcome bonuses through their apps. Examples:

  • Walmart App highlights rollback prices and gives access to clearance inventory not marked in-store
  • Staples App offers bonus rewards for app-exclusive purchases

Apps can also help you track your receipts, monitor return policies, or earn loyalty points with every purchase.

Smart Strategy for the Best Deals:

  1. Create a shopping list with specific brands or product types you’re looking for.
  2. Compare pricing online at your favorite 2–3 stores (like Walmart, Amazon, Target, or Staples).
  3. Take screenshots of lower prices if you’re heading in-store—many stores like Target, Staples, and Best Buy offer price matching if you show proof.
  4. Watch out for shipping costs. Sometimes “free shipping” thresholds or in-store pickup options can make a better-priced item less affordable when fees are added in.
  5. Use browser extensions to catch pop-up savings you might otherwise miss.

Bonus Tip: Don’t Forget Curbside & Pickup Discounts

Some stores offer additional discounts if you place your order online and pick it up curbside. This saves time, money, and the temptation to impulse shop while wandering the aisles.

Price comparison takes a few extra minutes, but it can save you serious money—especially when multiplied across dozens of school supply items. A little digital diligence before heading to the store ensures you walk away with the best possible deals, every single time.

5. Buy in Bulk (Then Split with Friends or Family)

Warehouse clubs like Costco, Sam’s Club, and BJ’s Wholesale often sell school supplies and snacks in bulk at unbeatable prices. But unless you’re stocking an entire classroom, buying 120 pens or 24 glue sticks might feel excessive.

Solution:

Split the cost with another parent or two. Everyone saves, and you don’t end up hoarding half your supply closet with items your kid will never use.

What to buy in bulk:

  • Crayons, pens, markers
  • Composition books
  • Disinfecting wipes, hand sanitizer
  • Individually packed snacks

6. Shop Thrift Stores & Consignment Sales for Clothes

Don’t sleep on secondhand! Kids grow fast, and most clothing only lasts a season before it’s too small or out of style. Save big by hitting up:

Back-to-school doesn’t have to mean brand-new everything. You can score gently used, brand-name clothes and shoes for 70–90% less than retail.

Buy “play clothes” secondhand and save new items for school pictures or special events. Bonus: You won’t panic when something gets ruined in art class.

Adult holding cash and writing in planner while using a calculator at home.

7. Go Back-to-School Shopping During Tax-Free Weekends

Many U.S. states offer tax-free holidays during late July or early August, giving families a break on school-related purchases.

What’s usually included:

  • Clothing and shoes
  • School supplies
  • Some electronics (varies by state)

Depending on your state’s tax rate, you can save 6–10% instantly. Combine it with store sales or coupons, and the savings really stack up.

Plan ahead—these weekends can get crowded. Go early in the day or shop online with local retailers offering tax-free deals.

To check if your state participates, visit your state’s official Department of Revenue website.

Here are the upcoming dates for states participating in tax-free back-to-school shopping for 2025:

Dates To Be Announced (TBA)

No Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday in 2025

8. Use Store Loyalty Programs & Cashback Apps

Retailers love loyal customers—and they’re willing to reward you for being one. From exclusive coupons and birthday perks to cashback and points that translate into real savings, loyalty programs and cashback apps are powerful tools that help you save while doing the shopping you were already planning to do.

The best part? Most programs are completely free to join and take less than a minute to sign up.

Must-Try Store Loyalty Programs

These loyalty programs can help you earn rewards, unlock exclusive discounts, and get early access to back-to-school sales.

Target Circle

  • Offers personalized deals based on your shopping habits
  • Includes percent-off discounts, bundle deals, and manufacturer coupons
  • Stack deals with manufacturer coupons and app-only savings for double the value
  • Also includes birthday rewards and occasional storewide bonus days
Target Circle Logo png

Office Depot/OfficeMax Rewards

  • Earn 2% back in rewards on qualifying purchases
  • Get bonus rewards on special categories (like school supplies during back-to-school season)
  • Members receive exclusive coupon codes and special promotions
  • Rewards can be redeemed as cash discounts on future purchases
Office Depot Office Max Logo

Old Navy/Gap Rewards

  • Points earned for every dollar spent across multiple brands (Old Navy, Gap, Banana Republic, Athleta)
  • Combine with sales and promo codes for maximum savings on back-to-school clothes
  • Receive early access to seasonal promotions, member-exclusive discounts, and birthday bonuses
Old Navy Gap Rewards Logo

Cashback Apps Worth Downloading

These apps let you earn real money or gift cards just by scanning receipts or shopping through their portals.

Fetch Rewards

  • Upload receipts from any store (even gas stations and restaurants!)
  • Earn points on qualifying products and bonus offers
  • Redeem points for gift cards to stores like Amazon, Target, or Walmart
  • Great for those who prefer paper receipts—just snap a photo and earn
Fetch Rewards Logo

Ibotta

  • Offers cashback on groceries, school supplies, and even online shopping
  • Works both in-store and online (just link your retailer account or upload your receipt)
  • Bonus: Includes deals at major stores like Walmart, Target, and Staples
  • Redeem cashback via PayPal, gift cards, or your bank account
Ibotta Inc Logo png

Rakuten

  • Shop through their portal or browser extension to earn cashback from hundreds of retailers
  • Works with back-to-school favorites like Best Buy, Old Navy, and Office Depot
  • Often stacks with store sales and promo codes
  • Quarterly payout via PayPal or mailed check—perfect for budgeting future expenses
Rakuten Logo

Why This Strategy Matters for Back-to-School Shopping:

Even if the discount seems small (say, $1–$5 off here or 2% back there), it adds up fast, especially when you’re doing a large haul of school gear, clothes, and supplies.

Let’s break it down:

  • Spend $150 on supplies at Target → earn $5–10 back with Target Circle + cashback app
  • Buy $100 in clothes at Old Navy → earn $5 in rewards + cashback from Rakuten
  • Upload your receipts to Fetch → earn enough points for a $10 Amazon or Target gift card
  • Bonus: If you’re buying for multiple kids, these savings compound week after week

In other words, just for taking 2–3 extra steps during your normal shopping routine, you could earn $20–$50+ in rewards by the end of the season.

Pro Tips:

  • Double-dip whenever possible. Use a store loyalty program + a cashback app on the same purchase.
  • Set up browser extensions (like Honey or Rakuten) so you never miss cashback opportunities.
  • Save up your points for holiday shopping or unexpected school expenses later in the year.
  • Use a dedicated email when signing up for store accounts if you’re worried about inbox overload.

Using store loyalty programs and cashback apps is one of the easiest and most effective ways to save money during the back-to-school shopping season—without sacrificing convenience. You’re already doing the shopping. Now let your purchases work for you.

back-to-school shopping; supplies on white background

9. Use Competitor Deals to Price Match

Back-to-school shopping doesn’t have to mean running from store to store hunting for the best deals. Many big-box retailers offer price match guarantees—meaning if you find an identical item for less at a competing store (or even online), they’ll match or sometimes even beat the price on the spot.

This can be one of the most underrated money-saving strategies—especially during the busy back-to-school season when your time is just as valuable as your budget.

How Price Matching Works

Most retailers have a clear price match policy, and all it takes is a little preparation on your part. Here’s how to use it effectively:

  1. Search for the item you’re planning to buy at a few competitor stores online.
  2. If you find it cheaper elsewhere, screenshot the listing or pull it up on your phone (be sure to include the item name, price, and availability).
  3. At checkout, politely ask if they price match and show the proof of the lower price.
  4. If it qualifies under their policy, they’ll adjust the price and you get the item at the lowest available cost—without leaving the store.

Retailers That Commonly Offer Price Matching:

  • Best Buy – Matches prices from top retailers including Amazon, Target, and Newegg, as long as the product is identical and in stock.
  • Home Depot & Lowe’s – If you’re buying items like desk chairs, organizers, or dorm storage, both stores offer price matching for identical products sold by approved competitors.

Price matching gives you more freedom and flexibility. You can:

  • Shop at your favorite or most convenient store without overpaying
  • Avoid shipping fees or delays by getting the item in-store for the online price
  • Combine the convenience of in-person shopping with the cost savings of online deals

And during back-to-school season—when you’re buying in bulk and possibly for multiple kids—those matched prices can lead to substantial savings.

What to Watch Out For (Read the Fine Print!)

While price matching is a fantastic tool, every store has different terms and limitations. Here’s what to keep in mind:

  • The item must be identical in brand, model number, size, and color.
  • The competitor’s item must be in stock at the time of the match request.
  • Some stores exclude certain sale types, like clearance, flash sales, third-party sellers (Amazon Marketplace), or bundled deals.
  • Most price match requests must be made at the time of purchase, not after.

Always check the store’s official price match policy online before heading out so you know what qualifies.

Pro Tips to Maximize Price Matching:

  • Keep tabs open on your phone with price comparisons while you shop, especially for bigger ticket items like backpacks, tech accessories, or dorm decor.
  • Use store apps—many will allow you to scan an item’s barcode and see if it’s cheaper online or at a nearby competitor.
  • Bundle with other deals: Some stores allow you to apply coupons, loyalty rewards, or cashback on top of the price-matched item.

Don’t assume the price on the tag is your only option. With a little price-checking and a polite request, you can shop where it’s most convenient and still walk away with the best possible deal.

It’s a simple strategy that can save you hundreds of dollars over the course of your back-to-school shopping—without adding extra trips or stress to your already-packed schedule.

10. Avoid the “Back-to-School” Label Trap

Just because something’s in a shiny “back-to-school” aisle doesn’t mean it’s the best buy. Retailers often mark up seasonal displays, knowing parents are in rush mode.

Why it matters:

You can often find identical items in other parts of the store for less. For example:

  • A basic 3-pack of socks in the regular kids’ section might cost less than the “school sock bundle.”
  • Lunch containers and reusable water bottles may be cheaper in the kitchen aisle than in the school section.

Use unit pricing (cost per item) to evaluate whether a “bundle” is really saving you money—or just part of clever marketing.

Back-to-School Shopping Doesn’t Have to Break the Bank

With a bit of strategy, planning, and awareness, you can absolutely win back-to-school season without wiping out your bank account. The key is to:

  • Start early
  • Stay organized
  • Prioritize value over hype

By using these 10 money-saving tips for back-to-school shopping, you’ll cut costs, reduce stress, and set your family up for a smoother start to the academic year.

More Back-To-School Articles:

Affiliate Disclosure
This blog contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission if you click on a link and make a purchase or subscribe to a service. As an affiliate marketer, I partner with various companies and receive compensation for promoting their products or services. This in no way affects the opinions or recommendations I give.

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