Managing Tough Times: Back To School Savings

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As long as kids keep growing, back to school shopping will be a yearly event. Families are expected to spend nearly $300 this fall on clothing and shoes for school, making it a good time to learn a few money-saving tricks. “With the current economic situation, many parents are forced to change their school shopping habits and are looking for ways to cut spending and save dollars,” says Brenda Schmitt, ISU Extension Family Resource Management Program Specialist.
Whether you're shopping for school supplies or clothing, the first step is to start at home and inventory what you have on hand, make a list of the things you need and know how much money you have to spend. Sticking to your list will cut down on impulse and unnecessary purchases.
There’s no point buying things your teen won’t wear or the school won’t allow, so familiarize yourself with the school dress code and look through a clothing catalog together for ideas.
Check out newspapers, sales fliers and retailer websites for on-site and online promotions. Look for online coupons and specials to save up to 25% off. If you combine an online promotional code with a free shipping offer, it may pay to stay home.

If your child has any outgrown clothing in good condition (no rips or stains, reasonably fashionable), gather it and head to your nearest consignment shop. Parents can get cash on the spot for clothes that their kids grow out of, as well as buy gently used clothes at a fraction of the original price. Yard sales and resale shops often have great buys at bargain prices. Shop early because back to school can be a busy time and shop carefully, since most garage sales and consignment shops won't take returns.

One thing you’ll want to buy new are basics like socks and underwear. There’s no point paying top dollar for items that barely show, so hit the retail stores.

An outlet might be worth the drive and time. The merchandise at outlets in generally first quality and the savings range from 25% to 65%. Outlets stock everything from overstocks to last year’s leftovers at a discount.

Don’t shop in haste, and keep your receipts until the clothes are actually worn. For more information contact your local ISU Extension office and ask for PM 848 -Shopping for Children’s Clothes and Shoes.

For more information on dealing with tough economic times, visit your local extension office or check out ISU Extensions Managing in Tough Times website- www.extension.iastate.edu/toughtimes or www.eXtension.org websites 24 hours a day 7 days a week. The Iowa Concern Hotline offers 24 hour confidential assistance for those dealing with stress, financial concerns, and legal questions. They can be reached by calling 1-800-447-1985.

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