Make the grade with your wallet this school year. Whether you're a parent prepping for the first day or a student heading off to campus, these tips will help you shop smart, stretch your dollars, and keep your budget on the honor roll.
5 ways to save
1. Start with what you already have
Before heading to the store, take inventory. Dig through drawers, closets, and backpacks to uncover forgotten supplies: pens, folders, half-used notebooks.
Numerica tip: Repurposing what you already own is the easiest way to save money. Less clutter, less spending, and more room in your budget for what really matters.
2. Shop to save, not to splurge
Back-to-school shopping doesn’t have to mean breaking the bank. It's tempting to go all-in on the latest gear, but smart spending starts with asking: Do we actually need this?
Skip the top-shelf tech or brand-name trends unless they truly meet a need. A solid, affordable backpack or laptop can go just as far, maybe even longer. Focus on value, not flash. Saving today sets you up for stronger financial wellness tomorrow.
3. Build a back-to-school budget (and a safety net)
From surprise field trips to growth-spurt-induced shoe emergencies, back-to-school costs can add up fast. That’s where an emergency fund shines.
Set aside small amounts throughout the year. Numerica’s Round Up to Savings feature makes this easy by automatically rounding your purchases and saving the change. Park those funds in a Bonus Saver high-yield account to earn more while you prepare for the unexpected.
Need help building a budget? Our Budgeting 101 guide is packed with free tools and simple steps.
4. Get smart about clothing
Sure, a fresh outfit can boost confidence for the 1st day. But don’t rush to stock up on an entire wardrobe. Styles shift as school starts and the seasons change. Let your student settle in before you fill out their closet.
Stretch your clothing dollars further by shopping secondhand. Local thrift stores across Spokane, N. Idaho, and Central Washington are full of affordable finds from like-new jeans to name brand shoes at a fraction of the cost. You can also join a “Buy Nothing” group online or look for local clothing swaps. Many items are new or gently worn, and sometimes even free.
Numerica tip: Buying less, and more intentionally, is a win for your budget, the planet and your style.
5. Shop clearance (September is gold)
Timing is everything. Once the school year kicks off, retailers shift gears for fall and holiday sales, which means deep discounts on school supplies, backpacks, and even laptops.
Hold off on non-essentials until mid or late September. You could score the same items for a fraction of the price.
Need a hand with budgeting?
Numerica partners with GreenPath Financial Wellness to offer free, personalized support from certified financial counselors. Whether you're budgeting for school or setting long-term financial goals, GreenPath is here to help.
Final bell: Smart back-to-school shopping isn't just about what you buy, it's how you plan, save, and prioritize. Numerica is here to help you make the grade with your finances all year long.
Updated July 2025
Reviewed by Numerica’s Financial Engagement Manager
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