Back-to-School Deals: Save During Tax-Free Weekend

K-12 Parents Plan to Spend Less on School Supplies This Year

As the new school year approaches, many K-12 parents are adjusting their budgets and planning to spend less on school supplies compared to last year. This shift comes amid ongoing economic concerns, with many families looking for ways to stretch their dollars further. According to a recent survey conducted by Deloitte Houston, local parents expect to spend an average of $808 per child this year, which is a decrease of $90 from the previous year.

Take Advantage of Tax-Free Weekend

One of the best opportunities to save money on back-to-school shopping is during the tax-free weekend. This event allows shoppers to purchase a variety of items without paying state or local sales taxes. For example, in Texas, the tax-free weekend typically occurs in August, offering significant savings on essential school supplies.

During this period, clothing, shoes, school supplies, and backpacks are all tax-free, with a maximum price limit of $100 per item. This means that for every $100 spent, families can save approximately $8 on taxes. However, it’s important to note that electronics such as laptops and tablets are not included in the tax-free offer.

Rising Prices and Inflation Impact

Despite the tax-free weekend, overall prices for school-related items have increased significantly. The US Producer Price Index reports that prices for backpacks, pencils, tablets, and art supplies have risen by 25% to 30% this year. These increases are partly due to global supply chain issues and tariffs affecting manufacturing costs.

Tips for Saving During School Shopping

To make the most of their budgets, experts recommend several strategies for saving on school supplies. Andrea Woroch, a well-known shopping expert, suggests starting with a thorough inventory of what your children already have. This includes checking if there are enough pencils, crayons, or even the first few pages of a used notebook that can be repurposed.

For new purchases, buying in bulk with other families can help reduce costs. Many retailers offer school supply sales throughout the month, and opting for generic brands can also lead to substantial savings. For instance, a notebook from a generic brand may cost significantly less than a name-brand alternative.

Explore Secondhand Options

Another effective way to save is by shopping secondhand. Consignment stores and online marketplaces like Poshmark, eBay, and The RealReal offer a wide range of gently used school supplies and clothing at a fraction of the retail price. Some retailers have even introduced secondhand sections on their websites, making it easier for families to access these deals.

Woroch also recommends trading out outgrown or unwanted clothing with other families through platforms like The Swoondle Society. This service allows families to exchange clothes for credit, helping them save money while keeping their children’s wardrobes up-to-date.

Tech Purchases: Refurbished Options Are a Smart Choice

When it comes to technology, such as laptops and tablets, purchasing refurbished devices from reputable sellers can offer significant savings. Companies like Best Buy, Apple, and Amazon provide certified refurbished products that are often priced up to 60% lower than new models. These items come with warranties and return policies, ensuring quality and reliability.

Use Apps to Maximize Savings

In addition to traditional shopping methods, using digital tools can help families find the best deals. Apps like Shopsavvy allow users to compare prices across different retailers, while Karma sends alerts about price drops. The Fetch Rewards app lets users turn receipts into gift cards, providing additional savings over time.

By combining these strategies, families can effectively manage their school supply budgets and still provide their children with everything they need for the upcoming school year.