Hard to believe that in just a few short weeks, school will be starting again.  Every year growing up my parents did “back to school” shopping for all 4 of us kids.  I can’t imagine the money they spent.   Some kids have to spend their own money on clothes paid for by a part-time or summer job.  So, here are some tips for you and/or your parents on saving money on back to school shopping.

Set a Budget
Know how much you want to spend and don’t spend any more than that.  If you must, get cash out so you know exactly how much you have.  My favorite method of shopping, thanks to some of my shopping friends, is to go to each store and put items on hold.  Then after you’ve gone everywhere you want to go, go back and pay for the items you really want and can afford.

Sale Racks
Don’t necessarily avoid stores because you think they are too expensive.  Just bypass the regular priced items and head straight for the sale rack.  You’d be surprised how much they mark down items at some stores.

Coupons
Sign up for reward coupons and newsletters online or in the store to receive discounts, and wait until you have a % off coupon before shopping.

Shop Online
If you don’t mind buying clothes without trying them on, I think the best way to shop is to buy online.  If you have items in a shopping cart, you can see exactly how much you are spending and take your time selecting them.  You can also find great deals online.

What is your must have item for back to school?

Don't forget to include your Aware Teens Username when you respond so you can be entered to win the monthly points for commenting on the blog!