Back-to-school budgeting can be challenging with the long list of supplies needed each year. From new backpacks to textbooks, costs can quickly add up—especially when unexpected items may be needed after the semester starts.
While these costs may increase quickly and be expensive, we want to make sure you have enough money set aside for the entire year, not just the beginning of the semester.

How Much Do Back-To-School Supplies Really Cost?

Budgeting for back-to-school requires you to account for all costs, including supplies, tuition, extracurricular activities, transportation, and more. Consider these average expenses for parents and guardians:

$874.68 – Average household back-to-school spending

$586 – Average cost of back-to-school supplies for one child in K–12

$1,364.75 – Average cost of back-to-school supplies for college students

Whether your child is in public or private school, education costs may be far from cheap. These yearly expenses can add up quickly and be overwhelming without proper planning, budgeting, and strategy.

What Should I Include in My Back-To-School Budget?

One of the most important strategies in your back-to-school budget is knowing the difference between needs and wants. While having the latest MacBook Pro or top-of-the-line Nikes may be nice, they may not be essential purchases and could take money away from the items you actually need.

If you’re not sure what counts as a need versus a want, here is an example spreadsheet to help you think through your expenses:

Looking through these examples, some items may not be as essential as you first thought. It may be helpful to write down exactly what you want, which could help you decide if you need to budget for those things now or wait and purchase them later after saving more money.

Ask yourself:

1. What will happen if I don’t have this?
2. Can I borrow or reuse this item, or does it have to be brand new?
3. Is there a cheaper or simpler version that works just as well?
4. Is it required for a specific class?
5. Will I use this every day?

Answering these questions honestly can help you determine what is absolutely necessary to include in your back-to-school budget and how much you may need to spend this year or save for next year.

Where are the Best Places to Shop for Back-To-School Supplies?

Now that you have built your back-to-school budget and know your spending limits, it’s time to go shopping! Here’s a list of some great, cost-effective places to look:

1. Walmart

From low prices to price matching, Walmart could be a great first stop for school supplies year-round. Their prices are reported to be 47% below average, and they offer a variety of needs—from backpacks to lunch foods.

2. Sam's Club

If you have multiple school-aged children, buying in bulk at Sam’s Club may be a better option for you in the long run. Bulk purchases could help you save money compared to buying individual items.

3. Target

Target is another great shopping location where you can find sales and deals to help with a variety of back-to-school items.

4. Dollar General

While they may not have as many options as Walmart, Dollar General often offers cheaper basics such as rulers, notebooks, and backpacks.

5. Thrift Stores

For back-to-school clothes, consider shopping at Goodwill or another local thrift store. These may provide cheaper deals on clothing and accessories.

When is the Best Time to Go Back-To-School Shopping?

There’s no bad time to shop—great deals can pop up year-round. However, knowing when the best sales and discounts occur could save you the most money.

Mid-July to Early August

This is the peak time for families preparing for the new school year, so many stores will have promotional sales and deals on supplies. While it’s the most common time to buy, it’s not the only time to find good deals.

A key factor during this time is tax-free weekend, depending on your state. For example, Tennessee holds a tax-free weekend around the last weekend of July each year. This may be a great opportunity to purchase more expensive items and save money on sales tax.

Clearance Sales in June and September

Just because the school year has started doesn’t mean the deals are over. Check for clearance items in early fall or spring—you may be surprised by what you find!

Holiday Sales

Back-to-school shopping might not be top of mind during the holidays, but it’s a great time to find discounted school supplies while shopping for other items. Keep an eye out for deals on these holidays:

• Labor Day Weekend
• Christmas
• Year-End Clearances

FAQs about Budgeting to Back-To-School Supplies

Q: How much do families typically spend on back-to-school supplies? 

A: Families spend close to $900 per child on average.

Q: How do I decide what to include in my back-to-school budget?

A: Know the difference between needs and wants. Ask yourself questions like: Is this required for class? Will I use it every day?

Q: Where are some of the best places to shop for affordable back-to-school supplies?

A: Walmart, Sam’s Club, Target, Dollar General, and thrift stores are good places to save money for back-to-school supplies.

Q: Can buying in bulk save money on school supplies?

A: Absolutely! Shopping at warehouse stores like Sam’s Club and Costco can be helpful if you have multiple school-aged children.

Budgeting Well = Saving Money

Now you know some tips and tricks for how to implement your budget for the school year! Be sure to keep track of your budget with a spreadsheet or use the money management tool on the Leaders Credit Union mobile app.

Wanting to learn more budgeting tips? Read our blog, “Budgeting Basics: How to Establish a Personal Budget" or check out our free resource: Cut the Cost Challenge: 7-Day Guide to Summer Savings.

Leaders is federally insured by the NCUA.