Back-to-School on a Budget
Sharpen Your Pencils- School is Approaching!
Shopping for school supplies and new clothes can be expensive, especially with multiple children. Capital One Shopping forecasted the average K-12 household should plan to spend an average of $918 on items like binders, calculators, and clothes, while college student households typically spend around $1,400 on back-to-college shopping. Though the cost can seem quite high, there are several ways you can save.
Take Advantage of Your State’s Tax-Free Weekend
If your state has a sales tax and schedules a tax-free weekend, plan a day to go out and save. Select clothing, footwear, and accessories priced at $100 or less per item are eligible for this discount. Essential school supplies with a value of $50 or less per item, personal computers valued at $1,500 or less, and related equipment are all exempt from sales tax. For more information check your state’s Department of Revenue to see if your state participates; check Florida, Alabama, and Georgia here.
Now, if your state does not already impose a state-level sales tax, like Alaska, consider the next few tips.
Visit Your Local Walmart
Walmart is widely known for providing affordable goods to all. From markers, folders, backpacks, and electronics, to clothing and more, Walmart is your one-stop shop. This year, starting Thursday, July 11, “Walmart Deals” is being introduced. Shop thousands of deals including their hot back-to-school goods and more. Consider saving on back-to-school shopping and check out your local Walmart.
Shop Target’s Back-to-School Bargains
Target ensures this school year's essentials are filled with value. From school supplies to dorm essentials, Target ensures deals are available. Summit Ridge kids’ backpacks are selling for $5, the lowest-priced backpack they have offered in more than 10 years. Moreover, their must-have-school supplies list contains 20 items for less than $20.
In addition, Target is offering a special discount for teachers and college students who sign up for their free Target Circle savings and loyalty programs which offer exclusive discounts including a back-to-school discount. Teachers are eligible for a one-time 20% discount on their entire purchase made between July 14 and August 24. College students are also eligible for 20% off their entire purchase between July 14 and September 28.
Introduced in 2024, Target Circle 360 subscription service offers free same-day delivery on Target orders of more than $35. Between July 14 and August 24, parents can get a discount on a Target Circle 360 subscription for their students who might be away from home for the upcoming year. Cost for verified students: $4.99 per month (a discount over the $10.99 monthly price for all consumers). During that same time window, teachers can get a Target Circle360 subscription for $49 for the first year (regularly $99).
Shop Smarter
If you are trying to get the best deal this school year, try doing some research on where to get the best deal on your supplies, clothes, and electronics before making a quick purchase. Many big-box retailers like Best Buy and Target have a price match guarantee; to ensure you shop for the best price be sure to ask for the price match.
Other retailers offer online, and in-store deals between certain periods as well. Consider checking out if the retailer has an app that offers special offerings for teachers and students. Want to save on trendy clothing? Students can receive 10-15% off Nike and Adidas through their exclusive student discounts and free shipping. Students are eligible to use the discount once a month for an unlimited amount of time.
Need help with back-to-school? Gulf Winds is here for you.