It’s almost time to go back to school! This month our GreenPath partners have shared with us a list of tips to help us get ready and not break the bank. Read on for more!

8 Tips to Put on the Back-to-School Shopping List

While the dust has barely settled on Independence Day festivities, the store shelves are already packed with back-to school supplies and clothes. The sales are underway online and in-store. So, while we still may be thinking sunscreen and summer fun, now is the time to think about saving money on the upcoming school year!

Whether you shop online or in the stores, a little planning can help you save a lot of money. Here’s some tips:

  1. Start your shopping early! Doing your homework early can often help you spend less and choose from a better selection of supplies.
  2. Shop by looking at circulars and online sales. Plan your trip around the best deals throughout the rest of the summer until school starts.
  3. Take inventory of what your child has now and what can be reused during the new school year.
  4. See if your child’s school website has a shopping list for each individual grade. That way you can identify things that they need right now and what can wait.
  5. Don’t buy all your supplies from one store. Shop around! Certain stores will price match or have better prices.
  6. Talk to your children and identify needs versus wants. You can set expectations and limits on things like shoes, clothes or sports gear. (Visit www.greenpath.com/gfw-webinars to sign-up for our “Kids and Money” Webinar Wednesday on Aug. 10!)
  7. Avoid cartoon characters. Usually, themed back-toschool supplies can cost 20-30 percent more than their generic counterparts. A great way to still give them style and personalization is to buy stickers and let them decorate their supplies.
  8. Consider shopping solo. You’ll stay focused and avoid unnecessary purchases. Your child may want a newbackpack, when last year’s will do just fine!