Five Back-to-School Shopping Tips

Now is the time for the arguments to begin and choose over brand names or no name products when choosing your school supplies such as clothing and bags.

If you are a parent buying for your grade school children you've been learning the ropes for a few years. However, if your child is new to school or you're doing your own school shopping for the first time, you can benefit from a heads up on how, what and where to shop.

Five simple tips will save you money and keep you from going crazy.

DON'T DELAY

The best things go fast at the discount stores, so don't delay. Start your shopping early in order to find the best deals.

Dollar stores will be a good place to start for your pens, paper and other items. All of the goods you need will be available from August.

If you've waited too long already your best bet is stationary or office supply stores. While they may not always be the cheapest they're more likely to keep their supplies in stock. You'll also save yourself running around since they're sure to have everything you need.

CHECK OUT BIG BOX STORES

Bulk stores and membership clubs should be considered if you know some other people who also to pick up some supplies.

You may not be able to get everything you need but essentials like paper, pens and the like can be loaded up and split among everyone saving you money.

YOUR SCHOOL MAY HAVE WHAT YOU NEED

Parents or classmates may be able to arrange for their school to purchase discounted supplies in bulk, sharing the reduced costs with everyone.

Not only will this mean great savings - it also saves you all the hassle of finding supplies, shopping around or dealing with complaints about brands or colors.

SEASONAL SALES

Now's the time to stock up on summer and sport related clothing. If your child will be taking part in after school activities like swimming or gymnastics you can get a great deal on their gear with end-of-season sales.

Keep your eyes open for clothing which has multi-season possibilities. A summer tank top can go under a winter sweater, cropped pants can be worn with boots and skirts can be matched with warm, comfy tights. With a little creativity, you can be both frugal and trendy as you transform warm weather styles into fashionable cool weather clothes.

Before buying the kids clothing check to see what dress codes are in operation at your school. Short skirts and bare shoulders is one rule to look out for.

FINDING THE RIGHT BAG

Backpacks are important! You don't want to buy one that is too heavy or too big because it could lead to headaches and sore muscles. Backpacks should have a waist strap and shoulder padding for support and shouldn't sit any lower than the waist.

Fashion conscious students may prefer hobo bags and slouchy purses but these are not suitable for heavy books. If you prefer this type of bag then make sure that you get one with a strap that crosses the body spreading the weight. Heavy books should be carried in a backpack making sure that it is worn properly and not slung over one shoulder.

Every new year at school is ripe with exciting possibilities. Instead of stressing out while shopping for your back-to-school items, be sure to have fun!

Donna Brancheau has been tutoring & teaching in San Diego for 30 years. For awesome tutoring advice, visit her tutoring web site. Also, you can get unique copies of this article or other great education articles to use on your web site!