Back-to-School Savings Hacks: Expert Tips for K-12 and College Students

Smart Shopping Strategies

• 🏠 Start your shopping at home by checking for unused supplies like binders and folders from the previous year.
• 💡 Repurpose items like notebooks by ripping out old pages to save money before buying new ones.
• 💰 The National Retail Federation estimates families spend an average of $858 per child for K-12 back-to-school shopping.

Utilizing Shopping Apps and Guarantees

• 📱 Use apps like Shop Savvy to scan barcodes and compare prices across different retailers in real-time.
• 🛒 Add items to price tracking apps such as Honey's Drop List or Karma to get alerts when they go on sale.
• ✅ Choose brands that offer a guarantee on products like backpacks and clothing, allowing for free replacements for damage or normal wear and tear with a receipt.

Saving on Electronics and Textbooks

• 🔌 For electronics, consider buying refurbished models from reputable retailers, which can save up to 60% and come with a money-back guarantee.
• 📚 For college students, borrow textbooks from peers and photocopy necessary chapters, or explore textbook rental options.

Leveraging Rewards and Discounts

• 🧾 Scan receipts using apps like Fetch, Ibotta, or Receipt Hog to earn points redeemable for gift cards.
• 🎓 Inquire about student discounts at stores; verification may require uploading a tuition bill or fall schedule, but can lead to significant savings.
• 🗣️ Don't hesitate to ask for discounts at stores like the Container Store, IKEA, Marshalls, and TJ Maxx, as they may offer them even if not advertised.