Back-to-school season always seems to sneak up, and wow, it adds up fast. This year, many families began school shopping earlier than usual, concerned that tariffs might drive prices higher. According to the 2025 National Retail Federation’s annual survey, families with K–12 students are expected to spend an average of $858.07 per child on back-to-school expenses, including clothing, shoes, school supplies, and electronics. Believe it or not, that’s slightly less than last year!
I know most Crabby Housewife readers are already savvy bargain hunters when it comes to clothes, shoes, and tech. You know how to stretch your budget and score those deals. But what about the school supply list packed with name-brand requests and 24 glue sticks? That’s where these frugal hacks come in.
With a little planning and a few conversations with teachers about product flexibility, you can keep your cool and your costs down. Let’s dig in and make this the most budget-friendly back-to-school season yet.
10 Frugal Back-to-School Supply Hacks
With school supply lists growing longer, prices creeping up, and expectations set on name brands only, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed before you even hit the store. But here’s the good news: You don’t have to overspend to get your kids ready for a successful year. With a little planning and creativity, you can save on back-to-school essentials with these 10 frugal hacks to help you stock up without stressing out.
1. Shop Your Home First
Before buying anything, take stock of what you already have. Go through drawers, your craft cabinet, last year’s backpacks, and that bin in the closet. You’ll likely find forgotten pencils, unused notebooks, and even packs of crayons still in the wrapper. It’s surprising how much you can cross off your list without spending a dime.
2. Take Inventory and Make a List
Once you are aware of what you have on hand, compare it to your school’s supply list and make a plan. Having a list of exactly what you need will help avoid impulse buys and duplicates, plus shopping will take less time.
3. Set and Stick to a Budget
Decide how much you’re willing to spend before you start shopping. If you’re concerned about going over budget, consider using a prepaid gift card or a cash envelope system to stay accountable. I’ve had times where I had to put something back because I only brought cash and didn’t have enough, and honestly, that was a good thing. Setting limits not only saves money but also helps you stay intentional with every purchase.
4. Time Your Purchases
Don’t feel like you have to buy everything all at once (unless you’re shopping last minute). Many stores release their best deals in stages, so keep an eye on sales. Stock up early on high-demand items (like glue sticks), but hold off on extras and trendy items until they hit clearance.
5. Use Price-Tracking Tools
Apps and browser extensions like Honey, Rakuten, Flipp, or Capital One Shopping can help you find the best deals:
- Find price drops
- Apply coupons
- Compare prices across stores
It’s like having a digital frugal friend in your pocket that works automatically.
6. Visit Dollar Stores for Basics
Don’t underestimate the power of your local dollar store. You can score everything from pens and highlighters to scissors and rulers at a fraction of big-box prices. Just make sure to compare quality because some items (like binders) may not hold up as well, but other items are total steals.
7. Take Advantage of Tax-Free Weekends
Many states offer tax-free shopping days on school supplies, clothing, and even electronics. Mark your calendar and plan your shopping trip around it, and you could save anywhere from 5% to 10%, depending on your state’s tax rate.
8. Buy in Bulk and Split with Friends
Items like pencils, glue sticks, and tissues often come in large packs. Buying in bulk from warehouse stores or online retailers like Amazon can be more cost-effective, especially if you have multiple children to buy for, or you split the cost with another family. It’s a win-win.
9. Skip the Licensed Characters
Sure, your kid may want the Paw Patrol folder or the Mario backpack, but branded supplies usually cost more. Opt for plain versions and personalize them at home with stickers, patches, or washi tape. It adds personality without the price tag.
10. Check for Freebies and Swap Events
Check local Facebook groups, churches, or community centers for annual back-to-school events that help local students start the new school year more prepared. Many organizations host giveaways or offer gently used items for free. You might be surprised by what you can find, no shopping cart required.
Think Ahead, Talk It Out, and Save Big
With a little strategy, you can tackle that supply list without the stress or the sticker shock. And if the list calls for brand-name items, don’t hesitate to reach out to your child’s teacher about using a generic version. Most are completely understanding and happy to allow substitutions, especially if it means your child shows up prepared.
One more frugal tip? Start setting aside a small amount each month for back-to-school. Whether it’s $10, $20, or just spare change, beginning in the spring, you’ll save enough to provide a nice buffer by August, for supplies, shoes, or even unexpected tech needs. The earlier you plan, the easier it is to stick to your budget without feeling the pinch.
