Prepare for Back to School: Budgeting Tips and Early Shopping Strategies

Back to school shopping can sneak up fast — and it’s not cheap. 

Between school supplies, new clothes, tech gear, and extracurricular expenses, the costs add up quickly. But with a little planning and some smart tactics, you can keep your spending under control and avoid that last-minute stress.

Here’s how to budget effectively and shop strategically so you’re ready for the school year without draining your wallet.

Know What You Actually Need

Before you buy anything, take inventory. What’s still in good condition from last year? What fits? What can be reused?

Schools often provide supply lists by grade or course. Use this as your foundation, then:

• Check closets, drawers, and storage bins before heading to the store
• Involve your kids in sorting supplies — it helps them understand budgeting too
• Cross off anything you already have

This simple step can shave a surprising amount off your final total.

PRO TIP: If you don't know what you need, contact your school directly. Staff will be back in the office during the last week of August.

Build a Realistic Back to School Budget

Once you know what you need, assign a dollar amount to each category:

• Supplies: pens, paper, notebooks, binders
• Clothing: school clothes, shoes, outerwear
• Technology: laptops, calculators, headphones
• Extras: lunch gear, sports equipment, bus passes

Use previous years as a guide, and don’t forget hidden costs like student fees, field trips, or locker rentals.

If you're shopping for more than one child, break down the budget per student so nothing gets overlooked.

Shop Early — But Not All at Once

Starting early gives you time to find deals — and avoid panic buying.

Spread purchases over a few weeks to take advantage of multiple sales and reduce the sting on your wallet. Late July through mid-August is typically when most stores roll out their biggest back to school promotions.

Tip: Hold off on non-urgent purchases (like fall clothing or backup supplies) until after school starts, when clearance deals are even better. 

Compare Prices & Use Rewards Wisely

With online and in-store options, it pays to compare. Use apps and websites to check prices before heading out. 

Look for:

• Student discounts at tech retailers like Apple, Dell, and Lenovo
• Price-matching policies at big-box stores
• Cashback or loyalty points through store apps or credit card programs

Also, take advantage of tax-free weekends if they’re available in your province.

Thrift, Swap, or Buy Used

Not everything has to be brand new. Consider:

• Thrift stores for gently-used backpacks, clothes, or shoes
• Facebook Marketplace, Kijiji, or local buy-nothing groups for supplies and gear
• Swapping with friends or family — especially if you have kids of different ages

And if you're tech shopping, refurbished devices from reputable retailers can offer major savings with warranties still intact.

Stick to Your Plan

It’s easy to get sidetracked by flashy sales or your child’s sudden desire for a themed pencil case that costs $12.

Set spending limits and talk openly with your kids about the budget. If they want something extra, consider having them contribute from their allowance or part-time job. (This doubles as a great learning opportunity for kids who are just getting started with budgeting.)

Some families find it helpful to use a prepaid card for school shopping, especially for new outfits and non-essentials. That way when the money’s gone, it’s gone.

Get a Head Start on the School Year

Back to school doesn’t just mean buying things. Start easing into a school-year routine — sleep schedules, meal planning, and organizing your home workspace. Having those systems in place makes the transition smoother for everyone.

And if you do your shopping early, you'll have time left to enjoy the final days of summer — stress-free.

Set Yourself Up for a Smoother September

Budgeting and early shopping aren’t just about saving money — they’re about taking control. With a clear plan, a bit of research, and some smart timing, back to school can feel less like chaos and more like a fresh start.

Because let’s be honest: September is busy enough. Why not make it easier on yourself now?