Ah, back-to-school season. That magical time when you realize your child has outgrown everything, your inbox is full of supply lists, and your wallet is bracing for impact. Pencils, notebooks, new shoes, backpacks, lunchboxes—how do tiny humans need so much stuff?
According to a 2024 study by the National Retail Federation, families with children in elementary through high school planned to spend an average of $890 during the back-to-school season. That’s a big number—but here's the good news: families who create a detailed budget and stick to a list save an average of 20–25% on seasonal shopping. That’s over $175 back in your pocket (or toward a celebratory coffee).
Before you hit the store, dig through those drawers. Do you really need 12 new folders? Or did you just forget about last year’s rainbow-colored stash hiding under the couch? Inventory first, shop later. Bonus: it’s oddly satisfying.
Figure out how much you can realistically spend—per child or in total. Break it down by categories: supplies, clothes, electronics. Having a number in mind prevents last-minute splurges and keeps expectations in check (for both you andyour kids).
This is gold. Use back-to-school shopping as a chance to teach your child basic budgeting. Give them a set amount for supplies or clothes and let them help make choices. It builds math skills, decision-making, and an early appreciation for money. \ Want to sneak in a life lesson? Say something like: “You’ve got $40—do you want the sparkly backpack or a bunch of cool supplies? You can’t have both, but you can make the call.”
Shopping around pays off. Many major retailers compete heavily this season with price-match guarantees and flash sales. Shopping online lets you compare easily, and stacking discounts with gift cards from Card Cookie? That’s the cherry on top.
It’s tempting to grab everything cute in the back-to-school aisle, but focus on must-haves first. Once the basics are covered, you can revisit the “fun stuff.” Frugal doesn't mean joyless—it just means intentional.
Here’s what budgeting for back-to-school really gives you: a chance to plant the seeds of financial literacy early on.
Letting your child watch you budget, compare prices, and prioritize teaches them essential life skills. Studies show that kids who are involved in household budgeting:
In short, when they see you making thoughtful money choices, they learn to do the same. You’re not just shopping—you’re shaping their financial future.
The back-to-school season doesn’t have to wreck your budget—or your sanity. With a plan in place, a few smart strategies, and a willingness to bring your kids into the conversation, it can become something more than just a seasonal spend-fest.
You’ll save money. You’ll save stress. And you might even raise the next budgeting wizard in the process.
Need a shortcut to savings? Start with a discounted gift card from Card Cookie. Because going back to school is expensive enough—why not give your budget an A+?