Five Ways to Shop Back to School Essentials for Less

This is one of the retail industry's most important seasons and for many families one of the most expensive times of the year. Marketers are pushing everything from essential iPhone carrying cases for your teen to ballet flats for first graders. So how do you reign in the costs while still buying what you need for little Johnny or Jane so they remain too cool for school and you stay in the black? Here are some tips to guide you:

1. Take a Walk Around Your House
Grab a bag and "shop" around your house, looking into the areas where you store old pens, pencils, crayons and markers. Then make a list of what you really need to buy. It's surprising what you can find in a junk drawer when you actually take the time to clean it out.


2. Make a Budget, Allowing for One Extra Expense
Shopping with your kids often ends up with them asking you for a lot more than they really need. Create your budget and allow room for one item they can each choose (within a certain amount). That way, you can get through the big shop without hearing the call to buy every shiny gadget in the store. And the kids will be distracted and excited looking for one fun item rather than whining about ten.

3. Shop in Bulk
Armed with your list and budget, start your shopping at the big warehouse stores where you can buy pencils, pens, binders, markers and crayons in bulk. Remember, it's a time of year when the stores are competing for big business so there are bound to be sales. Check out club stores like Costco or large supply stores like Staples where you can get your basics for less. Aim for a mix between good pricing and good quality so you're not coming back later in the year to replace a broken binder.

4. Look for Online Deals
For some, back to school shopping is a family event that marks the beginning of a new school year. But if the crowds and mall parking are something you'd rather avoid, do your shopping online. It's easier to comparison shop and you can often find good shipping deals. The prices may even be better than in the store.

5. Hit an Outlet Mall
Kids like to start school feeling fresh and au courant, and that usually means wearing brand new outfits they feel good in. For budget clothes shopping there is no better place than an outlet mall or a factory store for new backpacks, shirts, dresses and shoes. If you're short on time, you could always wait until school has started when you're likely to get even better deals with fall sales. For uniform shopping, outlet malls often have several stores that offer basics at discount prices. Be sure to do a bit of research before you go to make sure you'll get what you need.