Experts share strategies to stretch your dollar as families gear up for the new school year
NEW YORK — With the new school year underway, families across the country are feeling the pressure of back-to-school shopping — and rising prices due to tariffs are making it even harder to stay on budget. NBC's shopping expert shares her top tips and tricks to help parents and students get everything they need without breaking the bank.
Make a List and Stick to It Before heading to the store or clicking "add to cart," inventory what you already have at home. Reusing last year's backpack, lunchbox, or binders can save significant money right from the start.
Shop Sales and Compare Prices Major retailers like Target, Walmart, Amazon, and Staples run back-to-school promotions throughout August. Use price-comparison apps and browser extensions to ensure you're getting the best deal before purchasing.
Buy Generic When Possible Brand-name notebooks, folders, and pens are rarely better than store-brand equivalents. Opting for generic supplies can cut your total bill by 20–30%.
Take Advantage of Tax-Free Weekends Many states offer tax-free shopping weekends on school supplies and clothing. Check your state's schedule and plan your shopping trip accordingly.
Shop Secondhand for Clothing Kids grow fast. Thrift stores, Facebook Marketplace, and apps like ThredUp or Poshmark are great options for gently used clothing at a fraction of the retail price.
Wait on Non-Essentials Avoid buying everything at once. Wait to see what teachers actually require before purchasing specialty items.
