How to Save on Back-to-School Shopping with Coupons

Back-to-school shopping can put a strain on any budget, but with strategic couponing, you can equip your kids for the school year without breaking the bank. Here’s a comprehensive guide to saving on supplies, clothing, and electronics:

1. Create a Detailed Shopping List:

• Check School Supply Lists: Start by obtaining the official school supply lists from your children’s schools.
• Inventory What You Already Have: Before buying anything, take inventory of what you already have at home. You may be surprised at how many supplies you can reuse from the previous year.
• Organize Your List by Category: Organize your list into categories like paper, writing utensils, notebooks, and electronics to make it easier to find coupons and compare prices.

2. Where to Find Back-to-School Coupons:

• Sunday Newspaper Inserts: Sunday newspaper inserts often contain coupons for school supplies from major brands like Crayola, Paper Mate, and Sharpie.
• Printable Coupon Websites: Websites like Coupons.com, [invalid URL removed], and Save.com offer printable coupons for various school supplies.
• Store Websites and Apps: Check the websites and apps of stores like Target, Walmart, and Staples for digital coupons and back-to-school promotions.
• Manufacturer Websites: Visit the websites of school supply manufacturers for exclusive coupons and offers.
• Retailer Back-to-School Catalogs: Many retailers release back-to-school catalogs that include coupons and special offers.

3. Combine Coupons with Sales and Promotions:

• Shop During Back-to-School Sales: Most stores offer significant discounts on school supplies during the back-to-school season (typically July and August).
• Stack Coupons: Combine manufacturer coupons with store coupons and loyalty program discounts for maximum savings.
• Take Advantage of Price Matching: Some stores offer price matching, allowing you to get the lowest price on items by matching a competitor’s advertised price.

4. Saving on Specific Categories:

• School Supplies:
  • Prioritize essential supplies like paper, pencils, and notebooks.
  • Look for bulk deals and multipacks to save money.
  • Use coupons for name-brand items that you prefer.
• Clothing:
  • Shop for basics like t-shirts, jeans, and sneakers during back-to-school sales.
  • Use coupons for clothing retailers or department stores.
  • Consider shopping at thrift stores or consignment shops for gently used clothing.
• Electronics:
  • Look for deals on laptops, tablets, and calculators during back-to-school sales.
  • Use coupons for electronics retailers or online marketplaces.
  • Consider buying refurbished electronics to save money.

5. Utilize Loyalty Programs and Cashback Apps:

• Sign Up for Store Loyalty Programs: Many stores offer loyalty programs that provide exclusive discounts and rewards.
• Use Cashback Apps: Apps like Ibotta, Fetch, and Rakuten offer cashback on purchases made at participating retailers.

6. Other Money-Saving Tips:

• Shop Early: Start your back-to-school shopping early to avoid crowds and ensure you get the best selection.
• Shop Online: Compare prices online and take advantage of free shipping offers.
• Consider Tax-Free Weekends: Many states offer tax-free weekends for back-to-school shopping. Check your state’s regulations for specific dates and eligible items.

By following these strategies, you can effectively save money on back-to-school shopping and prepare your children for the school year without overspending. Remember to be organized, patient, and persistent in your search for deals and coupons.