Shopping for back to school items doesn’t have to be a hassle.  The key to a successful back to school shopping spree is timing.  Primarily, shopping for back to school items doesn’t have to begin two weeks before school starts.  Many parents have discovered that they can purchase the items that they need well in advance of the next school year.  With a little planning you can save time, money and your sanity.

One thing to remember is that consumables can be bought any time of the year.  Consumables include paper, crayons, notebooks, construction paper, pencils, pens and any other item that can be used regularly during the school year that will eventually run out.  If you follow the circulars of your favorite retail and office supply stores, you can get great bargains on these items.  Purchase a plastic tub to store these items in your attic or basement and you’ll have them on hand year-round for your children.

If you have a student in college, planning ahead will save you a lot of time and money.  Typical items that they will need include toiletries, office supplies, clothing, medicine such as cold remedies and aspirin, clothing and small appliances.  All of these items are on sale at different times of the year.  Take advantage of the sales and buy the items in bulk.  You’ll be amazed at how much money you will save on these items if you buy them during off-season sales.

Clothing is always the most expensive item on your child’s back to school list.  There are several ways to save money on these items while still sending a styling student off to school.  One way that many parents have discovered is to buy a complete wardrobe at an online auction site.  This is one way to buy many new or almost new designer items at a fraction of their retail cost.  Another way to save money while still looking good is to shop at thrift stores.  If you want designer labels, shop at thrift stores in high-end neighborhoods.  There are also many stores that sell great looking gently used items at slightly higher prices than the Goodwill or Salvation Army.

It is also a good idea to shop for clothing during seasonal clearance sales.  If you have a child that is still growing purchase clothing a size or two larger so the items will fit next year.  Items that can be purchased for a song include swimsuits, t-shirts, shorts and undergarments.  Fall clothing sales are also great for children and you can buy snowsuits, hats, gloves and jackets at cost for next year.  College age students can also save money by purchasing seasonal clothing in their current size for the next year, including boots and shoes.

Many families have also discovered that they can have exchange parties with their neighbors.  Instead of having garage sales, neighbors with children can get together and exchange outgrown clothing.  This also works well with dance outfits and sports equipment.  Plan a get together with your friends before school starts and after it ends each year to exchange play clothing, jeans, sweatshirts, boots, winter coats and other items that no longer fit.  Your children may also like to attend the party so that they can choose items that they would like to have.

Plan your back to school shopping strategy early this year. If you do you’ll be able to spend the weeks leading up to the next school year hassle free.  Your children will have the items that they need and you’ll be able to avoid those long lines at the store.

 

Related posts:

1. Back to School Shopping Tips that Will Help Keep your Sanity in Check
2. Five Tips for Saving Big on Back-to-school Shopping
3. Save money easily on your back-to-school shopping
4. Frugal Facts – Shopping Out of Season Means Great Cost Savings!
5. Beat the Rush for the Top Ten School Supplies

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