While there are many articles detailing standard ways to spend less on school-related expenses like hitting retail stores at the right times, here are some unique and innovative strategies to spend less money on clothing and other back-to-school expenses.
1. Purchase used clothing for a higher cause.
While many people flock to their favorite retail stores to get the best deals on new clothes, some families are taking advantage of buying used clothes to raise money for their schools. If you don’t mind used clothing, you can buy clothes for your children this school year with brand names at a reduced price using Schoola.com. It sells used kids’ clothing for less.
Both shopper and schools benefit when a portion of the funds raised goes to the school of the donor’s choice. Schoola.com currently has over 13,000 schools participating in drives. Some schools have been able to raise up to $35,000 to meet financial goals for their schools’ wish lists. Some schools are now able to have programs for fitness, art, music and more. This is an innovative way to raise money with ever shrinking school budgets that leave little left over for these types of programs.
2. Invest in tech savvy friends to get bargains on technology.
Tech items can take a bite out of your budget. Using a computer for assignments is standard for all ages. If a new laptop, other electronic device or computer-related equipment isn’t in the budget, consider using refurbished ones. Talk to tech savvy friends to get the scoop on where the best deals and values are. If they happen to be an early adopter that just has to have the latest device, perhaps, you can purchase an older model that they might be looking to offload. They might even be able to help you when things go wrong with whatever device you own. Having a good buddy to help you troubleshoot can save you time and money.
3. Consider getting basic supplies even if you don’t have an official list yet.
According to the National Retail Federation, online shopping has grown by 15 percent. Many retailers such as Target, Bed, Bath and Beyond and Walmart are creating online checklists to make back-to-school shopping easier for those who like to shop online.
As students gets older, needed supply lists from schools aren’t always readily available before school starts. They might have to wait for the first day of school in middle school and high school. This last minute approach can make it harder for parents to get items on sale for their children, leaving you and your wallet in limbo. If this is the case, stock up on basic items like loose leaf notebook paper, binders, folders, pencils and pens when you see a good price. Many of these items are sold as loss leaders. Who wants to pay more when you don’t have to? This way, if the items you purchase end up on the list, you can readily use them. Make sure to keep your receipt so you can return anything that they won’t use and purchase other needed items at the same time. If you’re lucky, some of the supplies might even be on clearance.
4. Get around for less.
Taking the bus or school shuttle is a frugal way for a college student to get around, though it’s not always ideal in some situations. It can be frustrating to deal with the confines of bus schedules, though, especially while you’re carrying groceries, books or other important materials. Enterprise CarShare offers another cost effective solution for transportation on college campuses that can work around the student’s schedule and free them from carrying anything. Many campuses are embracing this new car share program.
Now students, staff and faculty are able to rent out cars for a low hourly rate. Members have access to a variety of makes and models. This approach is perfect for those who would like the option of using a car once in awhile. It can also serve as the ultimate test drive for those looking to buy cars down the road. There is even a no haggling program for students who are getting ready to graduate.
5. Benefit from membership
Take advantage of student rates on Amazon Prime. When you register as a member, you can get a discount. Not only will you spend less for membership, but you can find cheaper prices for textbooks, too. Having them shipped to you can free up time to get other things done, such as setting up your room or reuniting with old buddies.
It can be challenging to cover many school-related costs. You can use these tips mentioned to spend less money or get more financial bang for your buck.
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5 Creative Ways to Trim School-Related Costs originally appeared on usnews.com
