Hey there, momma! As those summer days start to fade, the buzz of a new school year is in the air. But let’s be real—it can also bring a bit of financial stress for us SAHMs.
Balancing the costs of school supplies and clothes for multiple children can feel overwhelming, especially when it all hits at once. I totally get it—watching your budget stretch thinner with every item on that shopping list is tough!
That’s why I put together these back to school money saving tips. With a few smart strategies and a little resourcefulness, you can save big while still making sure your kids step into the classroom ready to shine.
Let’s dive in—I’ll show you how to lighten the financial load and make back-to-school shopping a whole lot easier. You’ve got this, momma!
Quick Start: Back to School Money Saving Tips
Short on time? Here are the best ways to save money on back-to-school shopping:
- Set a budget: Know how much you can spend before shopping.
- Make a list: Stick to the teacher’s list and skip extras.
- Shop sales early: Take advantage of discounts before supplies run out.
- Reuse what you have: Check last year’s supplies and clothes first.
- Try thrift stores: Great for clothes, shoes, and backpacks.
- Buy generic: Store brands save money without losing quality.
- Swap with other parents: Exchange extra supplies or hand-me-downs.
- Space it out: Buy slowly over the summer instead of all at once.
👉 For a quick win, grab my Back-to-School Budget Template in the Free Printable Hub.
How to Create a Back to School Shopping Budget
Creating a back-to-school budget doesn’t have to be stressful! A simple plan will help you stay organized, avoid overspending, and make sure your kids have everything they need.
1. Figure Out How Much You Have to Spend
Before you shop, decide how much money you can put toward back-to-school expenses. Include any savings you’ve set aside and extra income you might have coming in. Once you know your total, you can divide it into categories like supplies, clothing, and activities.
2. List All Anticipated Expenses
If your school provides a supply list, start there. If not, jot down what your kids will need—like notebooks, pencils, backpacks, clothes, and even extracurricular costs (sports fees, tech fees, classroom parties, etc.).
3. Allocate Money to Each Category
Now decide how much to spend in each category. If you splurge a little on a durable backpack, you may need to scale back on extras like fancy markers or trendy lunch boxes. Keep your kids in the loop so they learn about budgeting too.
4. Use a Budget Template
A printable budget sheet can make the whole process easier by keeping everything in one place. You’ll see your spending at a glance and know exactly where your money is going.
👉 Grab my Back-to-School Budget Template in the Free Printable Hub to get started.
Back to School Money Saving Tips for School Supplies
Once your budget is ready, it’s time to shop for supplies. Here are some simple ways to cut costs without sacrificing quality.
1. Shop Sales
Back-to-school sales can save you a lot. Check flyers, apps, and store websites before you shop.
2. Buy on Clearance
Look for clearance aisles all year long. Stock up at the end of the season and save for next year.
3. Buy in Bulk
Bulk items like paper, pencils, and notebooks are cheaper in the long run. This is especially helpful with multiple kids.
4. Buy Generic
Generic brands are often just as good as name brands. The only exception in my house is crayons—Crayola always wins.
5. Reuse Last Year’s Supplies
Check your closets and drawers before buying new. Kids can easily reuse scissors, rulers, pencil boxes, or backpacks.
6. Host a School Supply Swap
Get together with friends and swap extra supplies. It’s a fun way to trade what you don’t need for what you do.
7. Consider the School Supply Box
Some schools offer supply boxes for a flat fee. They aren’t always the cheapest, but they save you time, gas, and extra spending.
8. Stick to the List
Only buy what’s on the teacher’s list. Extras add up quickly and usually aren’t needed.
9. Price Check Before You Buy
Compare prices at different stores or online. Google Shopping makes this quick and easy.
10. Order Online
Shopping online can save time and money. Use cash-back apps and extensions to stack even more savings.
11. Try Dollar Stores
Dollar stores are a gold mine for basics like notebooks, pencils, and folders. You’ll save a ton on the small stuff.
👉 Want help keeping the whole season organized? Be sure to grab my Back-to-School Routine Kit below.
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How to Save Money on Back to School Clothes and Shoes
When it comes to back-to-school clothes and shoes, I’ve definitely learned a few tricks along the way. As a mom of six boys, I’ve had plenty of practice stretching our clothing budget while still making sure everyone is ready for the first day.
Clothing and shoes are often the biggest back-to-school expenses. Here are some practical ways to save without sacrificing style or quality.
1. Go Through What You Already Have
Check your kids’ closets before shopping. You might be surprised how many items still fit or can be reused.
2. Use Hand Me Downs
Hand-me-downs are a budget lifesaver. Sort through storage bins or totes before buying anything new.
3. Shop Sales and Clearance
Take advantage of sales and end-of-season clearance racks. If your budget allows, buy ahead for next year while prices are low.
4. Try Thrift Stores
Thrift stores are full of affordable finds. Shops like Once Upon a Child or Plato’s Closet often have gently used clothing at great prices.
5. Browse Marketplace Sites
Check Facebook Marketplace or similar sites for secondhand deals. You can often find name-brand items for a fraction of the cost.
6. Watch for Tax-Free Shopping Days (and State Rules)
Many states hold tax-free weekends for school supplies and clothing, which can save you quite a bit. And if you live near a state border, it pays to know the rules—where I live on the Minnesota/North Dakota line, it’s always cheaper to shop in Minnesota since clothing isn’t taxed, while North Dakota adds a hefty sales tax.
7. Skip the Expensive Name Brands
Kids don’t need pricey logos to feel confident. Focus on quality and comfort instead of paying extra for labels.
Ways to Save Money on Extracurricular Activities
Extracurricular activities are valuable, but they can quickly stretch a family budget. With six boys, I’ve learned how to balance costs while still letting them be involved.
1. Choose Community Programs or Local Teams
Community-based sports and activities usually cost less than private clubs. They’re still fun, skill-building options without the high price tag.
2. Ask About Discounts or Scholarships
Many organizations offer financial aid for sports, music, or art lessons. A quick call or email can open the door to savings.
3. Buy Used or Discounted Equipment
Look for secondhand gear at thrift shops, consignment stores, or resale shops like Play It Again Sports. You’ll get quality equipment for a fraction of the cost.
4. Use Hand-Me-Downs
We save shoes, gloves, helmets, and gear to pass down between kids. If you don’t have multiple children, ask friends or family to share their extras.
5. Consider the Total Cost
Some activities look affordable until you add in uniforms, travel, hotels, and meals. Here in Minnesota, hockey is huge—but the extra expenses made us think twice before signing up.
6. Turn Team Clothing into Gifts
Sports and clubs often sell sweatshirts and fan gear as fundraisers. Instead of buying them every season, we give them as Christmas or birthday gifts.
7. Limit Activities
Overscheduling kids can be stressful and expensive. Focusing on just a few interests keeps costs down and lets kids build deeper skills and friendships.
Extra Back to School Money Saving Tips
Looking for even more ways to save? Here are a few bonus tips I’ve learned over the years that can help stretch your budget even further.
1. Use Cash Back Apps
Apps that give cash back on purchases can add up fast. They’re an easy way to earn while you shop.
2. Shop Online Holidays
Prime Day, Cyber Monday, and other seasonal sales are great times to stock up. Watch for deals on clothing, supplies, and electronics.
3. Invest in Quality Items
Sometimes spending a little more saves money in the long run. I always buy durable backpacks so they last more than one year.
4. Cut Your Kids’ Hair at Home (or Find Student Stylists)
If you’re comfortable with scissors, home haircuts save a ton. Many cosmetology schools also offer student cuts at discounted prices.
5. Look for School Programs and Discounts
Some schools provide free or low-cost supplies. Local businesses may also offer special back-to-school discounts for families.
6. Download Store Apps
Store apps often feature exclusive coupons and deals. They also make it easy to price-check while shopping.
7. Take Advantage of Price Matching
Many stores will honor a competitor’s lower price. All it takes is asking at checkout.
8. Use Coupons
Coupons still work! Print or digital, they’re an easy way to cut costs on supplies and clothes.
9. DIY Supplies
Get creative by decorating notebooks or repurposing last year’s backpacks. It saves money and adds a personal touch.
10. Avoid Using Credit
Stick to cash or debit so you don’t overspend. It feels better knowing your shopping is already paid for.
11. Leave the Kids at Home
Shopping alone helps you stay focused. It also keeps kids from sneaking extras into the cart.
12. Space Out Purchases
Buy supplies slowly over the summer instead of all at once. Smaller trips hurt the budget less than one big shopping spree.
14. Wait Until School Starts
Sometimes the best deals come after the first week of school. Waiting can save you money on leftover stock.
Still wondering how much to budget or where families spend the most? Let’s look at some common back-to-school shopping questions and answers.
FAQs About Back to School Money Saving Tips
Have more questions about budgeting and shopping for the new school year? Here are some quick answers to common back-to-school money saving questions.
How much money should I save for back-to-school shopping?
It depends on your family size and what your kids need. A good range is $100 to $300 per child for supplies, clothes, and activities.
What is a reasonable budget for back to school shopping?
Most families spend between $200 and $400 per child. This usually covers supplies, clothing, shoes, and a little extra for tech or activities.
What are back-to-school shoppers spending the most money on?
Clothing and shoes are often the biggest expense. Tech items like calculators, laptops, or tablets are also common costs for older kids.
What are the best back to school money saving tips?
Start with a clear budget, reuse what you already have, and shop sales early. Thrift stores, bulk buying, and price matching also make a big difference.
How much are families spending on back-to-school in 2025?
The National Retail Federation (NRF) reports that families with school-aged kids plan to spend about $858.07 on back-to-school items—covering clothing, shoes, school supplies, and electronics—a slight drop from $874.68 in 2024 .
At the End of the Day…
At the end of the day, back-to-school shopping isn’t just about supplies and expenses—it’s about helping your child feel ready and excited for a new year. The costs can add up, but with a few smart back to school money saving tips, you can stick to your budget and still get everything your kids need.
Focus on the essentials, make it fun, and look for little ways to save along the way. You can grab my Back-to-School Budget Template anytime in the Free Printable Hub, and if you’d like extra support, sign up below to get the Back-to-School Routine Kit.
Claim Your Free Back to School Routine Kit!
Make mornings easier and evenings calmer with this simple printable pack for moms & kids.
No spam, just helpful tips + your free printables.
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