Whether you’re shopping for first-day outfits, tackling the ever-growing classroom supply list, or just trying to stay sane, here are some of my favorite mom-tested, wallet-friendly tips to help make the season a little smoother.
Tip #1: Shop Smarter, Not Harder
Take Inventory Before You Shop
Before you hit the store (or checkout on Amazon), take a few minutes to go through last year’s stuff—school supplies, shoes, clothes. Do the scissors still cut? Can the backpack survive one more year? Will those sneakers hang on for a few more weeks until the next growth spurt?
I personally love to buy ahead when things go on sale, but let’s be real—I forget what I’ve stashed away. Doing a quick inventory helps me avoid buying duplicates and saves real money.
Create a Master List
Make a list of what you already have and what your kids actually need. I use digital lists on Amazon or Walmart.com—because wandering store aisles usually leads to impulse buys (like a 6-pack of scented highlighters we definitely didn’t need). Bonus: You’ll often get alerts when something on your list drops in price!
Split Needs Now vs. Needs Later
Here’s some secret sauce: not everything needs to be purchased before Day One. That $40 backpack? Give it a few weeks—it’ll probably drop to $15 in September. Any money you save? Add it to your holiday fund—or start buying ahead for next year. Just don’t forget where you hide the stash!
Tip #2: Clothing on a Budget
Host a Clothing Swap
Team up with other parents or neighbors to trade gently used clothes. Your friend’s kid might have outgrown something that still looks brand new. Make it fun—host a “Sip & Swap,” or post about it in your school’s Facebook group.
Thrift, Consign, and Clearance First
Before you head to full-price stores, check your local thrift shops and outlet stores. I’ve found great deals thanks to everyone’s summer closet purge. Clearance racks at Old Navy, JC Penney, or Marshalls often have hidden gems for 70% off.
Let the Kids Help Set the Budget
Give each child a set amount—whether it’s a gift card or an envelope—and let them choose how to spend it. This is a great way to teach budgeting, prioritizing, and the art of trade-offs.
Tip #3: Use Deals, Discounts & Rewards Wisely
Stack Your Savings
Use cashback and coupon apps like Rakuten, Ibotta, Fetch, or Honey. You’re already shopping—why not earn money or points while you’re at it?
Sign up for store promo emails (yes, even if you delete 90% of them). Sometimes, you can stack store and manufacturer coupons—always worth a quick check!
Shop During Tax-Free Weekend (if your state offers it)
In Texas, tax-free weekend was August 8–10 this year—perfect for grabbing big-ticket items like laptops, shoes, and backpacks.
Pro Tip: Load a prepaid gift card and use it to help keep your spending in check.
Open a Back-to-School Savings Account (Yes, Really!)
We know this happens every year, so why not prep for it? Add up what you spent this time around, then aim to save that amount plus 2–5% for inflation.
Example: If you spent $300 per child, try saving $315 for next year—that’s just $26.25/month.
Open a high-yield savings account, automate the transfers, and by next August, you’ll be ready.
Tip #4: It’s About Mindset, Not Just Money
Focus on Value, Not Volume
Remind your kids (and maybe yourself): not everything needs to be brand new. It’s not about how much you have—it’s how well you use it. And just because something’s “on sale” doesn’t mean it’s a smart buy.
Let Kids Earn Toward Extras
If your child must have those name-brand shoes or that designer backpack, consider letting them earn it. A simple chore chart can go a long way. You’ll be building budgeting skills, teaching delayed gratification, and reinforcing appreciation—all at once.
Final Thoughts + Call to Action
Back-to-school season doesn’t have to be overwhelming—or expensive. With a little planning, smart shopping, and a shift in mindset, you can save money, reduce stress, and teach your kids a few important life skills along the way.
Try One This Week:
Pick just one of the tips above and put it into action:
- Take inventory of what you already have
- Create a list of what you need
- Open that savings account for next year.
Bonus Challenge:
Share your favorite tip with another parent – and be sure to contact us with your favorite tip as well. Let’s help each other head into this school year a little more prepared—and a lot less stressed.
You’ve got this!
