Back-to-school season has a way of sneaking up on us. One minute we’re watching Fourth of July fireworks and stocking up on sunscreen, and the next we’re helping our kids try on sneakers and hunting down the perfect folders.
“It always feels like once July hits, we turn the corner toward back-to-school season,” says Sarah Baughman, an Akron mom of three. “It’s hard because I want my kids to enjoy summer, but if we wait too long, it becomes a mad dash at the end of August.”
The good news? With a little planning, smart shopping, and a few creative tricks, you can check everything off the list without blowing your budget or your sanity.
Shop Your House First
Before heading to the store, spend 15 minutes shopping your own house. You might be surprised by what you already have tucked away in drawers, closets or last year’s backpacks.
“My girls do a lot of art projects, so I know we always have things like unopened glue bottles or extra packs of crayons,” Baughman says. “There are usually scissors we can reuse, and even things like last year’s headphones.”
It’s tempting to buy everything brand new, but many school supplies are built to last. A backpack that’s still in good condition can get a fresh look with a fun keychain, patch, or zipper pull. Pencil cases, lunch containers, rulers, scissors, water bottles, binders, and even partially unused notebooks often have plenty of life left after a quick cleaning.
Reusing what you already own reduces waste and saves money.
Time Your Shopping
Ohio’s Sales Tax Holiday returns Aug. 7-9, making it a great opportunity to save on eligible school supplies, clothing and shoes. If you miss it, don’t worry. Retailers such as Target, Walmart, Staples, Office Depot and Meijer often offer some of their biggest back-to-school promotions during the final weeks before classes begin. While the selection may be smaller, the discounts can be even better.
Before checking out, browse store apps and digital coupons. Programs like Target Circle, Walmart+ and other loyalty rewards can often stack additional savings on top of sale prices.
Plan Ahead for Next Year
“I just pulled out a stack of notebooks that I bought last year after school started,” Baughman says. “They were marked down like crazy, and I knew they’d be on the list again, so I bought a bunch and stashed them away.”
She does offer one warning: “Just make sure you remember what you bought — and where you put it!”
Know Where the Bargains Are
Big-box retailers aren’t the only places to score great deals. Local favorites like Marc’s and Discount Drug Mart often have excellent prices on basic school supplies. Since their inventory changes frequently, it’s worth stopping in whenever you’re nearby.
Dollar stores are another hidden gem for index cards, poster boards, pencil pouches, locker accessories, and classroom supplies that don’t need a designer price tag. Five Below is also a great stop for middle and high school students looking to personalize lockers or backpacks.
Save in Bulk
Warehouse clubs like Sam’s Club and Costco can be surprisingly budget-friendly if you shop strategically.
“My best friend’s kids go to a different school, but we compare supply lists and figure out what we can buy at Costco and split,” Baughman says. “My kids don’t need a 24-pack of highlighters, but we can divide them up. It’s also great for things like Clorox wipes, paper towels and tissues. If there are leftovers, we save them for when supplies inevitably get lost or run out.”
Compare Before You Buy
Take a few minutes to compare prices online before heading out. One retailer may have the best deal on backpacks, while another offers the lowest prices on notebooks, markers or calculators.
“We always have good luck looking at stores like TJ Maxx for water bottles and backpacks,” Baughman suggests.
Get Creative
For many middle schoolers, decorating a locker is practically a rite of passage — but it doesn’t have to cost a fortune.
“We’re planning to hit up Michael’s for craft supplies to make locker magnets,” Baughman says. “I also picked up some mirrors and puffy paint from Dollar Tree to customize.”
Kids can try making magnets from polymer clay or bottle caps decorated with magazine cutouts. Scrapbook paper, washi tape, patterned duct tape, or even paper grocery bags can become durable, personalized book covers.
Stick to the List
Retailers know exactly how to tempt shoppers with trendy gadgets, novelty pens, and colorful accessories that somehow find their way into the cart.
Before checking out, ask yourself whether each item is required or simply a fun extra. Setting a budget ahead of time and sticking to the supply list can help keep impulse purchases from turning a $50 shopping trip into a $150 splurge.
Tech That Makes the Grade
Today’s school supply list often includes more than notebooks and pencils. Technology has become an essential part of learning, especially for middle school, high school and college students.
Many schools now provide Chromebooks or tablets, so check with your district before making a major purchase. If you do need to buy a laptop, look for student discounts, bundle deals, or tax-free weekend savings. Retailers like Best Buy also sell refurbished and open-box models that can save families hundreds of dollars while still delivering excellent performance.
A few other tech essentials are worth considering. Noise-canceling headphones can help students focus during study sessions or online classes, while a portable charger can be a lifesaver when a phone or tablet battery starts running low.
The key is to prioritize technology that’s durable, practical and likely to last beyond the first day of school.
The Bottom Line
Back-to-school shopping doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive. By shopping your home first, taking advantage of seasonal sales, buying strategically, and getting a little creative, you can send your student back to school feeling prepared, confident and excited for the year ahead.