After a year of virtual learning, we’re finally sending our kiddos back to school. With this glorious return to normal, there’s a lot of items that may need to be upgraded. Chances are, your shopping list is starting to stack up. So, what’s the best way to dive back into the fray after a year of learning and working from home? Read below for some key tips and tricks.

Rising Expenses

According to CNBC¹, this back-to-school season is going to be the most expensive yet. Recent studies show that you could pay around 32% more. Why? Rising costs and inflation. However, with the right tools and strategy, you could come out spending way less. Now is the time to start organizing your plan of attack.

Set Your Family Up for Success

Looking to maximize your back-to-school savings? Make a list… Today! That way, you can focus on essential supplies and avoid overspending on unnecessary novelties. This is especially important if your kids tag along during shopping trips. Your list will become the ultimate rule of law. If it’s not on the list, it doesn’t make your cart.

Shop Smart

Before you drop dollars on that expensive laptop, tablet or dorm room furniture, do some research. By taking the time to look online, you can score the best deals in town. Plus, some of the stores you visit may have a price match policy or coupons.

Spread Out Your Spending

Instead of buying everything you need in one day, shop over several weeks. This will help you create breathing room for your budget. Also, many items are less expensive after the school year starts. So, plan to buy only what your kids need those first few weeks.

Get a Back-to-School Bonus

This August, Heights Finance is running our BIG Back-to-School BONUS Sweepstakes. You’ll have the opportunity to win a $500 gift card to cover all of your back-to-school expenses and more. The Sweepstakes will run from August 3rd – 31st, 2021. Entering is easy and only takes a moment. Simply head to our site and enter your information. On September 1st, we’ll announce the (20) lucky winners. That’s right, we will be giving out $10,000 this season. Be sure to check out the official rules before entering.

Enjoy the Experience

So, what are you waiting for? The yellow buses are right around the corner and it’s the perfect time to get ahead of that back-to-school stress. As long as you show up prepared, you’re bound to save money and accomplish your goals. With these tips, we’re confident that you’ll conquer your budget while setting your kids up for the best year yet. After all, why shop hard when you can shop smart?

¹ cnbc.com/2021/06/30/parents-prepare-to-pay-more-for-back-to-school-due-to-inflation-kpmg.html