As you already know it’s back to school time, and we have been focusing some of our time on getting ready for it. Well, whether you are in high school, college, or university back to school shopping can get a bit pricier then expected and you need to save as much money as you can for wings and beer.  Frugal Dad, along with his wife, have been kind enough to post some tips for back to school shopping. Combined with some of my own personal tips, it’s sure to be a dollar saver!
1. Shop consignment stores in your area- Think of it as shopping for a used car, that someone else paid most of the depreciation. There are places like Value Village, Salvation Army, and other more local stores that might be in your area. Also, don’t be afraid to check out Winners or Designer Depot, they are bit more expensive than the consignment stores but they are still fairly cheap compared to the retail value.
2. Buy articles of clothing that go with (almost) anything- Instead of buying coordinating shorts, pants, and shoes, opt for versatile articles of clothing that work well each other. You will be able to mix and match your clothes and create an all-new outfit. Being a guy, I am a big fan of black and white because it seems to be able to go with everything, but I am definitely not a fashion expert.
3. Shop for off-season, clearance items- Either buy your winter back to school clothes during the summer (which I would suggest ASAP) or even buy your spring/summer outfits for second semester now.
4. Sales and Coupons- Most stores run sales from Thursday through Sunday and most people save shopping for the weekend. Going to shop on a Thursday will allow you to get the biggest selection at the sale price. This is important because I hate it when something is on sale and they have nothing left of it.
5. Watch the Sunday paper for store sales and coupons.-This is a no brainer. Keep in mind, if you have two coupons saving you X amount of dollars and are limit to one coupon per customer, you could always split the transaction with a friend. My friend and I recently split a deal on buying two sweaters for $60.
6. Buy school supplies in 3’s-When you find a great deal on paper, pencils, pens, binders etc.. it’s a good idea to have a few for replenishing throughout the school year because they will not be that price for ever.
7. Start a “Back To School” fund- Figure out what you spend each year on back to school shopping and divide that by 12. Put a little bit of your paycheck away each month, the same you do with other mandatory and important things. You will always be prepared.
These 7 tips can help you get the most for your dollar everyday. There is a way to shop around without having to go in any store and backtrack your way through stores to get the right deal. Tools like the internet are often quite accurate and helpful. The Toronto Star has a website which compares the prices of what you’re looking for, among retailers. HERE are comparisons for back to school items and suggest you check it out. Listen to me guys, and shop wisely you’re going to want that extra cash for beer or those Vodka Red Bull stuff once school starts, assuming you’re of age obviously.
Just kidding, but seriously
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Tags: Back to School, Frugal Dad, Recession, Screw You Recession, Thaddeus Bolton, Toronto Star
