5 Back to School Shopping Tips

Buying school supplies for your children to go back to school can be a stressful, anxious and costly task. Children want the latest gadgets and fads their friends have so they don't feel left out and because many can't say no to the peer pressure from their friends. Due to the recession, many stores are having great back to school sales. Take advantage of tax free days in your state to buy school supplies and school clothes for your children. My friend has two children and stated that she would only buy her children a few new outfits for school. Her children would have to suck it up and wear the clothes they wore last year.

Don't let your children pressure you into buying the latest fads or things they don't really need. Stick to your guns and only buy things that they absolutely need for school. This will also save you money. Talk with your children before going school shopping and set expectations. Let them know about your finances and what you are going to buy.

Have your children create a list of supplies that they are mandatory for school. Do an inventory to see if you have any school supplies left over from last year. Determine what clothes your children can still fit comfortably and make a list of things they need. Prioritize the list in three categories: Need Now, Need in 2-4 months, Need in 5-7 months, Need When School Ends. This will also help budget your money and help you find other ways to get supplies for school if you don't have the cash to get everything you need.

Here are 5 tips to save money when shopping for back to school supplies and clothing.

1. Sales: Go to yard sales and dollar stores during to find bargains on school supplies. Shop at wholesale stores like Costo, Walmart, Target, Walgreens or Sam's Club to get great discounts on school supplies.

2. Clothes. You can buy clothes from a thrift store, consignment shop or discount store such as Walmart or Target. Kids grow quickly and their clothes generally don't last or fit them throughout the entire school year. This will save you money and you kids will still remain fashionable. Buy clothes and shoes if possible at least one size too big so your kids can get more wear out of them.

3. Network: Mention to family, friends, co-workers and neighbors that you are going school shopping. They may be able to provide money savings tips for buying school supplies or may have extra supplies they can give to you for free.

4. Comparison Shop: Search the internet for reputable website that sell school supplies at a discount price and purchase items before school starts to get the best deals. Every few minutes of comparison shopping can save you $1-$9. Also shop at stores that honor competitor prices and coupons.

5. Budget: Create a budget for necessary school supplies (pens, paper, pencils, erasers, notebooks, composition notebooks, rulers, compass, etc.) and save some additional money for unexpected school expenses that may pop-up after school starts such as additional supplies need for classes, school trips, additional school supplies, etc.