Back to school shopping – it’s that time of year again when parents and kids flock to stores in search of the perfect supplies and trendy outfits. While the thought of navigating crowded aisles and endless options might make you break out in a sweat, fear not! With a little planning and savvy shopping, you can conquer this annual mission with ease. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the process of making a shopping list, understanding what your child needs, managing your budget, and snagging the best deals. So, let’s dive in and make back to school shopping an adventure to remember!

Making a list and identifying your child’s needs

To kickstart your back to school shopping journey, start by making a comprehensive list of everything your child will need for the upcoming school year (scroll down to see a list of everything you might need). Involve your child in the process to make it more engaging and get their input. From pencils and notebooks to backpacks and lunchboxes, gather all the essentials. Don’t forget to check if there are any specific items required by your child’s school, like uniforms or specific art supplies. This list will be your holy grail throughout the shopping adventure, ensuring you don’t miss a thing and saving you from those dreadful mid-shopping panic moments.

Budgeting wisely

Now that you have your shopping list ready, it’s time to tackle the budget monster. Back to school shopping can quickly become a black hole for your finances if you’re not careful. Start by setting a realistic budget and try to stick to it. Remember, your child doesn’t need a brand-new wardrobe or a year’s supply of glitter pens on the first day. Prioritize the essentials and allocate funds accordingly. If you’re dealing with multiple kids, involve them in the budgeting process to teach them valuable lessons about money management.

Snagging the best deals

Who doesn’t love a good bargain? When it comes to back to school shopping, the deals are out there—you just need to know where to look. Keep an eye on local stores’ flyers, check for online promotions, and sign up for newsletters to get exclusive discounts. Comparison shopping is your best friend, so don’t be afraid to explore different stores or websites for the same item. Remember to take advantage of tax-free shopping days if your region offers them. Additionally, don’t underestimate the power of secondhand options. Thrift stores, consignment shops, and online marketplaces can be treasure troves for gently used items at a fraction of the cost.

Injecting fun and style

Back to school shopping isn’t just about ticking off items on a list; it’s also an opportunity to let your child’s personality shine through. Encourage them to express themselves by choosing items that reflect their interests and style. Whether it’s a funky backpack, a quirky pencil case, or a favorite character lunchbox, adding personal touches can make the whole experience more exciting. Plus, when your child loves their supplies, they’ll be more motivated to embrace the new school year with enthusiasm.

Our back-to-school shopping list

To ensure you don’t miss any essential items during your back to school shopping spree, here’s a handy checklist to get you started:

  • Writing Supplies:
    • Pencils
    • Pens (blue, black, and red)
    • Highlighters
    • Erasers
    • Sharpener
    • Ruler
    • Glue sticks
    • Scissors
    • Markers
    • Colored pencils
    • Sticky notes
  • Notebooks and Paper:
    • Spiral-bound notebooks
    • Composition books
    • Loose-leaf paper
    • Graph paper
    • Index cards
  • Backpack and Lunchbox:
    • Sturdy backpack with padded straps
    • Insulated lunchbox or bag
    • Reusable water bottle
  • Clothing and Accessories:
    • Uniforms (if required by the school)
    • T-shirts
    • Pants/jeans/skirts
    • Sweaters/sweatshirts
    • Socks
    • Underwear
    • Shoes
    • Jacket/coat (depending on the climate)
  • Classroom Essentials:
    • Calculator
    • Geometry set
    • Protractor
    • Compass
    • Scientific calculator (for higher grades)
    • USB flash drive
  • Organization and Storage:
    • Binders
    • Subject dividers
    • Folders
    • Pencil case or pouch
    • Locker accessories (magnets, whiteboard, etc.)
    • Desk organizer
  • Technology:
    • Laptop or tablet (if required by the school)
    • Earphones or headphones
  • Miscellaneous:
    • Backpack charms/keychains (for personalization)
    • Hand sanitizer
    • Facial tissues
    • Backpack rain cover (if needed)
    • Art supplies (if your child enjoys art classes)

Remember, this list can vary based on your child’s grade level and school requirements. Be sure to consult any specific supply lists provided by the school to ensure you cover all the necessary items.

Need help covering back-to-school expenses?

With Brigit, you can get $50–$250* to cover your child’s needs. The best part? No interest, no late fees, and you can be approved in minutes. 

*Subject to Brigit’s approval and policies. Not all members are approved for advances and the amount varies per customer. Advances range from $50 – $250. Log into the Brigit app to learn more. No credit checks or interest, ever. Additional fees may apply for instant delivery of funds.