Save big this season with our handy list of back-to-school shopping hacks:
Plan to shop five times
To take full advantage of sales and clearance events throughout the summer, plan on making five shopping trips this season, or shop multiple locations to get the best prices when they are offered.
Stock up
While prices are low, buy enough school supplies to last through the first half of the year or more. You’ll save a ton and not have the hassle of buying more later.
Take advantage of loss leaders
Every week this season, retailers sell one product at a super-low price. This is their loss leader: an item priced so cheaply that retailers actually lose money on sales. Make sure you catch those deals.
Shop the dollar store
Before you hit the regular stores, shop for real bargains at dollar stores.
Buy designer backpacks online
Check out online sites for fantastic deals on designer backpacks. Make sure to allow enough time for delivery.
Use manufacturer coupons
Check out circulars and coupon sites for manufacturer coupons from supply companies.
Decode price tags
Here’s how these popular stores mark their lowest prices:
Shop through a cash back or rewards site
Do all your online shopping through cash-back sites and get 2-4% of every purchase back.
Use the online apps
Have your phone handy when shopping so you can comparison-shop when buying your supplies. If an item is cheaper on online, why buy it at a store?
Sign up for promotional mail
Many sites offer promotional discounts for signing up for their email list or text alerts.
Take advantage of price-matching
Lots of stores offer to match any competitor’s price. Make sure to bring competitor circulars with you when you shop.
Shop early in the week
Weekly sales go live on Sundays and the best deals get grabbed first. Shop Sundays and Mondays and never miss out on a great deal again.