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Five Back-to-School Shopping Tips Every Student Should Follow!

It is that time of year again to start buying your school supplies. Is it brand name or no name products? Time to make your decisions and decide on which clothing and bags to buy.

If your children are at grade school then you already have some idea of the items they need. However, if this is the first time you are buying your childrens school clothing etc, a few tips on what and where to buy would be helpful.

Save money and your sanity by following these five tips.

BUY EARLY

Wait too long and you're sure to find the shelves empty at all your favorite discount stores. If your biggest concern is getting a good deal, shop early.

You will be able to buy your goods in August, not forgetting that the dollar stores will be good for pens, paper and other important accessories.

If you are running out of time then try a stationary or office supplies store. They will likely have all of the products in stock and save you time but be warned that it is unlikely they will be the cheapest.

BUY AT BIG BOX STORES

If you have a few friends that need supplies for their kids (or college buddies) consider buying in bulk at membership stores or other bulk stores.

Pool your group's resources. Even if you can't find all you need, you'll save money on pens, paper and similar items by buying bulk and splitting the supplies among yourselves.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF SCHOOL PROGRAMS

Parents or classmates may be able to arrange for their school to purchase discounted supplies in bulk, sharing the reduced costs with everyone.

This will save you the hassle of shopping and dealing with complaints about color and brands as well as saving you money.

END OF SEASON BARGAINS

End-of-seasons sales are on now, offering great deals on clothes for summer and sports. If you have a child active in school sports, now's the time to stock up on their gear.

Look for double-duty clothes that can be worked into fall and winter wardrobes as well. Skirts worn with thick tights, tank tops worn layered under long sleeve shirts and sweaters or cropped pants tucked into tall boots are all trends that move summer staples into trendy fall and winter wardrobes.

Before buying the kids clothing check to see what dress codes are in operation at your school. Short skirts and bare shoulders is one rule to look out for.

FINDING THE RIGHT BAG

Be careful to buy the right bag! Heavy backpacks or ones that are too large can cause headaches or muscle soreness. Make sure that the bag you choose has good support, with padding in the shoulder straps and a strap to go around the waist, and that it doesn't sit below the waist.

Teens and college bound students may prefer the look of hobo bags and slouchy purses, but heavy books are best carried in a backpack that is properly worn. Carrying a backpack on one shoulder is just as damaging as a purse. If you still prefer a sac or bag find one that has a strap that crosses over the body to spread the weight.

Enjoy your back-to-school shopping and try not to get stressed. Look ahead to the excitement and possibilities a new school year brings.

Donna Brancheau has been tutoring & teaching in San Diego for over 30 years. For great tutoring advice, visit her tutoring web site, Horizon Bound. Also, be sure to get unique copies of this article or other wonderful education articles to use on your web site!