BBB Offers Back to School Shopping Tips According to the National Retail Federation, nearly a quarter of families start shopping for school supplies two months before school starts. That means retail stores are putting their best foot forward all summer long. Better Business Bureau has tips for consumers to take advantage of as many savings as possible.
BBB Offers Back to School Shopping Tips
Aug 19, 2015
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BBB Offers Back to School Shopping Tips
According to the National Retail Federation, nearly a quarter of families start shopping for school supplies two months before school starts. That means retail stores are putting
their best foot forward all summer long. Better Business Bureau has tips for consumers to take advantage of as many savings as possible.
A budget will help shape your shopping list and help limit purchases to only items you need. Knowing
your budget will also allow you to put money towards larger items or a special purchase.
Create a Budget
Create a Shopping List
Make a list by child or by store to avoid multiple trips. Clearpoint Credit
Counseling Solutions suggests starting by “shopping at home” for items you may have left over from last year.
Research Major Purchases
When shopping for laptops, calculators, dorm refrigerators and other large purchases, do your homework. Research the brands you’re
looking for to see what meets your expectations.
Check for Educational Discounts
Some computer and software companies offer discounts to
students and teachers with .edu email addresses. Some of these
can be quite substantial, so check around.
Shop Tax-Free
Some states offer a tax-free holiday specifically for the back-to-school shopping rush. To find out if your state participates, check out 2015
Sales Tax Holidays from the Federation of Tax Administrators.
Don’t Miss Sales
Compare prices between different retail stores, save coupons and be sure to redeem cash-back or rebate
offers. Sign-up for email alerts and download shopping apps for your favorite stores (RetailMeNot
is one popular coupon and discount app).
Buy in Bulk
Some schools ask parents to buy items that will be used by the entire class (tissues, hand sanitizer, etc.). Collaborate with other parents to shop in bulk. Parents of college students can also buy in bulk for
snacks, toiletries and other items for future “care packages.”
Save Your Receipts
You’ll need them if you want to make an exchange or
return an item. Remember some items are non-
refundable or have a 30-day return period.
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