If you are successful in talking them into the generic items, let them personalize those items themselves.
As usual, the school supply lists are huge this year. Anything you do to save some money can make a difference. Here are some great strategies.
Get out the bin
Get out a plastic bin or box. Put it in the middle of the house and throw anything in there that could be classified as a school supply. Crosscheck the contents of the box with the supply list.
Use cash
Cash makes it easier to stick to a budget.
Rewards credit card
The only exception would be if you can receive great rewards from your credit card. Check your card’s website. They might have a deal with retailers for added benefits.
Sales tax holiday
Many states now have a sales tax holiday on clothes and supplies. You don’t even have to battle the crowds; office supply websites also have to follow the rules of the tax holiday.
Join the email lists
Speaking of supply websites, go ahead and sign up for their email lists. They often send out coupons and sale notices before making them available to the general public.
Facebook and Twitter
Those same supply websites will often post those deals on their Facebook pages and Twitter feeds. Like and follow them.
Buy in bulk
Notebook paper will be the same next year as this year. If you have the space in your house, buy those kinds of items in bulk and keep them around as long as possible.
Rebate websites
Sites like ebates and Ibotta will be offering rebates on things you’ll have to buy anyway. Might as well sign up.
Make shopping a learning experience
That cool Minecraft backpack is expensive. Take this opportunity to show your child the meaning of budgets and marketing by showing them the difference between the name brand items and the plain goods.
Let them decorate
If you are successful in talking them into the generic items, let them personalize those items themselves. What you’ll pay in puffy paint and buttons, you’ll more than save on avoiding hot and trendy swag.