Back-to-school shopping can be exciting, but it often stretches family budgets thin. With smart timing and strategic choices, it’s possible to save money without sacrificing quality. According to shopping expert, brand strategist and lifestyle journalist Trae Bodge, this time of year is ideal for purchasing school supplies and summer apparel, but less so for fall clothing.
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“Deep discounts on fall clothing are unlikely right now,” Bodge explained. “I recommend reserving part of the clothing budget until after school starts, when kids can see what others are wearing and request a few items.” She added that essentials such as school supplies and basic stationery should be purchased early to lock in the best deals.
Here are Bodge’s top back-to-school recommendations and strategies to save.
Etsy: Personalized Engraving on Stanley IceFlow Cup
- Price: $45 (regularly $60)
The Stanley IceFlow is a spacious and durable water bottle that can be engraved with a child’s name, initials or handwriting. Practical for back-to-school, it keeps students hydrated while making their bottle easy to identify. Blending style, functionality and personalization, this engraved tumbler is a smart choice for lunch boxes, classroom use or everyday hydration.
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Amazon: Satechi FindAll Keychain
- Price: $29.99
This vegan leather keychain works with Apple’s Find My network, sending alerts if keys, student IDs or other essentials are left behind. It helps students — and parents — stay organized, saving time during hectic mornings. A practical back-to-school accessory, this tracker blends style, convenience and peace of mind for the whole family.
Amazon: Skullcandy Method 360 ANC Earbuds
- Price: $88.19 (regularly $129.99)
Designed for everyday use, these Skullcandy earbuds come with a charging case that clips onto backpacks or belt loops. They deliver reliable sound and long-lasting performance, making them a solid back-to-school tech pick at a discounted price.
Amazon: Samsung S25 with Two Years of Service
- Price: $30 a month
Parents looking for an affordable phone option can skip adding kids to family plans. Mint Mobile’s deal pairs a Samsung S25 with two years of service for $800 off, just $30 per month. A smart choice that keeps students connected while staying budget-conscious.
Best Buy: Refurbished MacBook Air
- Price: $449.99
Buying used or refurbished laptops with school-specified specs can dramatically reduce costs. Many refurbished devices come with warranties, allowing families to save money without compromising quality or performance. The refurbished 13.3-inch MacBook offers a reliable, budget-friendly option with the performance needed for schoolwork.
Sun Bum: Sun Bum Kids SPF 50 Stick
- Price: $12.49
A portable sunscreen stick that fits easily into backpacks or lunch bags. It’s simple to apply before recess or outdoor activities and is a practical, often-overlooked addition to school shopping lists.
GiftCardGranny: Discounted Gift Cards
- Price: Varies
Gift cards from stores like Old Navy, JCPenney, Barnes & Noble and Office Depot can be purchased at a discount, stretching budgets further. Bodge suggested giving teens gift cards directly so they learn to shop more thoughtfully. “They’ll be much more mindful of what they buy with ‘their’ money versus yours,” she added.
Money-Saving Strategies To Use
Beyond specific products, Bodge also recommended several strategies: shop sales and tax-free weekends, look at secondhand or lower-cost retailers, buy in bulk for multiple children and use deal sites for coupons and cashback. Common mistakes include waiting until the last minute, skipping an inventory check and opting for cheap items that wear out quickly.
Some purchases, such as backpacks, lunch bags and shoes, are worth the investment because they last longer. Multi-purpose items, like refillable grooming products, save money over time while reducing waste. Bodge also noted that more kids are open to secondhand items, which is both budget-friendly and sustainable.
“Families are blending online and in-store shopping, tracking price drops and focusing on value and durability instead of just trends,” Bodge said. With the right approach, back-to-school shopping can balance affordability with quality and even support more eco-conscious choices along the way.
Editor’s note: Pricing and availability may vary.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: Shopping Expert Shares Their 7 Best Back-to-School Deals and Budget-Friendly Picks
