Hey there, savvy parents and guardians! Ready (or not) — it’s time to gear up for the 2025 back-to-school season, and yes, the costs this year are turning heads.
- According to the National Retail Federation (NRF), families are projected to spend an average of $858.07 on K–12 back-to-school shopping this year—that’s slightly lower than 2024’s $874.68, but still a hefty chunk of change!
- Savings.com puts per-child spending around $628, with high schoolers shouldering more, up to $800.
- Inflation and tariffs are playing their part too: school supplies are up 30% compared to five years ago, and many parents are getting deals early to dodge future hikes, according to Axios.
- Apparel and essential items like backpacks have seen noticeable upticks, partially because of tariffs and supply chain pressures
But don’t worry—we’ve got your back with practical, budget-friendly moves.
Start with a Realistic Budget & Inventory
The best way to start saving money this back-to-school season is by creating a realistic budget before you set foot in a store or open a shopping app. Think of it as your financial blueprint: break your spending into categories like school supplies, clothing, technology, lunches, and extracurricular fees. When you know exactly how much you can spend in each area, it’s easier to avoid those little “just one more thing” purchases that add up fast.
Once you’ve set those limits, take inventory of what you already own. You might be surprised at how many items from last year are still perfectly usable. Maybe your child’s backpack only needs a quick wash, or those leftover notebooks at the back of the closet have plenty of blank pages left.
Even gently worn clothes can be repurposed—especially basics like jeans, jackets, and gym shoes. Every item you can cross off your list now means more room in the budget for the things you truly need.
It also helps to look at your own spending history. Pull up your receipts or bank statements from last July, August, or September to see what you actually spent during last year’s back-to-school rush. This will give you a realistic baseline for what this season might cost. Maybe you overspent in one area last time, or maybe you underestimated how pricey tech purchases can get. Either way, reflecting on past habits can help you avoid repeating mistakes and keep your 2025 budget firmly on track.
Time Your Shopping & Shop Smart
When you shop can be just as important as where you shop. More families are beginning their back-to-school shopping in July, long before the first day of classes. Retailers like Target and Walmart have responded with “early bird” promotions to encourage parents to shop before tariffs or supply shortages raise prices even further. If you wait until late August, you may find that not only are prices higher, but many of the most affordable items are already picked over.
Tax-free weekends are another big opportunity to save. States like Connecticut, for example, are running week-long events in mid-August where clothing, shoes, and certain supplies are exempt from sales tax.
If you live in a state that offers these breaks, planning your bigger purchases around those dates can translate into significant savings. And don’t forget digital tools: browser extensions like Honey or Rakuten, as well as store loyalty apps, can help you score hidden discounts or earn cashback with very little effort.
Embrace Second-Hand, Swaps & DIY
One of the biggest shifts in 2025 is the growing acceptance of second-hand and swapped items. More parents are turning to consignment shops, thrift stores, and community swap groups to stretch their dollars.
From uniforms to sports gear, many essentials can be found gently used at a fraction of the cost. Surveys show that nearly 40 percent of families now feel comfortable buying pre-owned back-to-school items, a number that continues to climb as inflation pinches household budgets.
Swapping has also become a community effort. Parents are trading hand-me-down clothes, backpacks, and even calculators within school and neighborhood networks. Every reused item not only saves money but also reduces waste—a win for both your wallet and the environment.
Make Tech Work for Your Budget
Electronics remain one of the most expensive categories for back-to-school spending, averaging nearly $300 per household. But that doesn’t mean you need to shell out for the latest laptop or tablet every year. Refurbished and certified open-box devices are widely available and can deliver the same performance as brand-new models at a steep discount.
Unless your child’s school requires specific software or hardware, most older devices will still meet classroom needs. Before rushing into a major tech purchase, check with teachers to confirm exactly what’s necessary. Sometimes, a family can delay a big expense by another year or repurpose an older device for schoolwork.
Teach Kids to Shop With You
Back-to-school shopping is also an opportunity to build financial literacy in your children. Consider involving them in the process by setting a budget for extras, like trendy sneakers or accessories, and letting them decide how to spend it. This not only helps kids distinguish between wants and needs but also gives them a sense of ownership in the back-to-school preparations.
By showing them how to compare prices, weigh trade-offs, and prioritize essentials, you’re teaching lessons that go far beyond the classroom.
Plan for the Year Ahead
It’s important to remember that back-to-school expenses don’t end when the bell rings on the first day. Sports fees, field trips, extracurricular activities, and seasonal clothing will all pop up throughout the school year.
To stay ahead, many parents set up a “school sinking fund”—a small monthly amount tucked aside specifically for these surprises. Even saving just $25 or $50 per month can prevent those mid-year costs from blowing up your budget.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 back-to-school season may feel daunting, but families have more tools than ever to stretch their dollars. By starting with a solid budget, shopping early, embracing second-hand finds, and making technology purchases carefully, you can cover all the essentials without overspending. Along the way, you’ll not only save money but also model smart financial habits for your kids—a lesson that’s every bit as valuable as the supplies in their backpacks.
By Admin –