It is hard to believe that we are already talking about the kids going back to school. I feel like this summer just began. With school on the horizon and Prime Day and Tax Free Week coming, it is time set a budget and get prepped for back to school shopping. With 4 kids under my belt, I have nailed down some practical back-to-school shopping tips for moms with multiple kids in school.
1. Assess what you have.
Assess what you currently have and can re-use before shopping. I like to buy a few extra every year so that when it comes time for back-to-school shopping, I get a little surprise by already having some stuff on hand. ????
I always go through their clothes too so that I can toss, keep, and hand down before I go shopping. It helps to know what we have and what we need ahead of time.
2. Budget in advance.
Create a budget based on the number of kids you have in school and what you currently have on hand. Plus, most school supply lists are out by now, making it even easier to know exactly what you need and don’t need.
I have figured out now that it is about $100 per kid for supplies (including backpack and lunch box).
3. Compare prices.
I have to admit, this part drives me crazy. I just want to get it over with, but now that most places have apps, I can compare Walmart, Target, and Amazon before heading out the door/ordering online. Publix is also known for doing BOGO on school supplies, so I like to see what they have too.
4. Take advantage of Prime Days and Tax-Free Week.
Huge savings opportunities are available with both Prime Days and Tax-Free Week (which, by the way, will be permanently from Aug 1 – 31 from now on!). By planning ahead and comparing prices (and of course, with that budget), you’ll be able to knock out your supply list in one fell swoop.
5. Don’t buy for appearances.
This is a hard one, especially in those tween and teen years, but making a purchase based on the item being practical and functional will beat “fashion” and popularity any day of the week.
That Minecraft lunchbox wasn’t “cool” anymore after the first 2 months of school, so the boys are getting plain black lunch boxes moving forward. No more nonsense there. Plus, I want to get something that will last all school year.
6. Shop Second-Hand.
Once Upon a Child, Goodwill, and Plato’s Closet are all great places to get good deals on clothes, shoes, and back-to-school accessories. They often have brand-new items as well as gently used ones. With the rate that these kids grow out of clothes, it is a win-win.
Plus, if you have a tween or teen girl, they can get all of the latest “fashion” at a fraction of the price!
If you have some more back-to-school shopping tips, I’d love to hear them! Drop me a note in the comments!
Originally published on July 8, 2024. Updated on July 6, 2025.
