How to Budget for Back-to-School Season

It’s no secret that this season can sneakily turn into a financial rollercoaster. But with a little planning (and maybe a discounted gift card or two), you can turn the chaos into something way more manageable—and even meaningful.

Published on 2025-08-05

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?

Why budget for back-to-school? Because it works.

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).

Practical steps to budget like a pro

1. Take inventory before you shop

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.

2. Set a spending limit (and make it known)

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).

3. Get your kids involved

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.”

4. Compare prices—and don’t sleep on sales

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.

5. Prioritize needs over wants (at least at first)

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.

The hidden benefit: raising money-smart kids

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:

  • Are more likely to save money as adults
  • Have better spending habits in college
  • Feel less anxiety around money later in life

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.

Wrap-up: Shop smart, teach smart

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+?

Looking to learn more smart ways to save money? Read all about it here. Or better yet