Group4 Studio, a subsidiary of Getty Images, is a well-known and respected name in the world of photography and visual content. As August rolls around and the back-to-school season approaches, many parents find themselves facing the daunting task of shopping for school supplies. With the rising costs of education, it’s no surprise that many families are feeling the financial strain of back-to-school shopping.
According to a recent survey from LendingTree, 31% of back-to-school shoppers are unable to afford school supplies this year, up from 26% in 2023. This statistic highlights the importance of finding ways to save money and budget effectively when it comes to back-to-school shopping. Fortunately, there are several strategies that shopping and budgeting experts recommend to help alleviate some of the financial burden.
One of the first tips experts suggest is to take inventory of what you already have at home before heading out to buy new supplies. Many parents are surprised to find that they already have a stockpile of school essentials hidden away in their kids‘ rooms. By taking stock of what you have, you can avoid unnecessary purchases and save money in the process.
Buying in bulk is another effective way to save on back-to-school items. Warehouse clubs offer discounted prices on select school supplies, allowing you to stock up on essentials for the entire school year. If space is a concern, consider going in on bulk buys with other parents to split the cost and share the savings.
Opting for generic brands over name brands is another money-saving strategy that experts recommend. Store brand items from retailers like Target, Walmart, and Staples are often much cheaper than their name-brand counterparts. By choosing generic products, you can save money without sacrificing quality.
Using discounted or free gift cards is another smart way to save on back-to-school shopping. Websites like GiftCardGranny and CardCash offer discounted gift cards that can be used to cover the cost of school supplies. Additionally, rewards apps like Fetch allow you to earn free gift cards by simply snapping photos of your receipts.
Waiting for sales to wind down on select items can also help you score better prices on back-to-school essentials. While it may be tempting to do all of your shopping in one weekend, holding off on certain items can lead to significant savings. Retailers often discount backpacks, lunchboxes, and other school gear during Labor Day sales and beyond, allowing you to snag great deals on items you may not need immediately.
If you find yourself struggling to cover the costs of back-to-school shopping, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Organizations like the Kids In Need Foundation, the Boys and Girls Club, and United Way offer free supplies to low-income families in need. By reaching out to these resources, you can ensure that your children have the supplies they need to succeed in school.
Finally, use back-to-school shopping as a teachable moment for your kids. Encourage them to make responsible financial choices and be mindful of their spending. Giving them a personalized gift card to shop for themselves can help them learn valuable lessons about budgeting and prioritizing their needs.
In conclusion, back-to-school shopping doesn’t have to break the bank. By following these expert tips and strategies, you can save money and alleviate some of the stress associated with this annual expense. Group4 Studio and Getty Images are here to help you navigate the back-to-school season with ease and affordability.