Back to School Shopping: Save Big and Get Quality Products

"Oh no!" the kids yell. "It's already time to go back to school?" That's right; the summer vacation never lasts forever. It is now time to get things back on track and get those brain juices flowing again. Of course, since your kids are starting a whole new school year, they probably used most of what you got last year and what they already have may be worn out. Shopping for school can be expensive, but if you know where to look, you could end up getting top price stuff for a great price. Here's how:

1. Shop at discount stores such as Wal-Mart and K-Mart. Chances are the prices for many items will be a lot less than at many other stores, particularly ones at the mall. Items such as pencils, erasers, rulers, protractors, and calculators run really cheap.

2. If you choose to get binders, go after the ones that are made from the sturdy parachute-like material because they last longer. When I was in middle school, I made one last for two full years. Even though these higher quality binders are a little more expensive, you will save a lot in the future because you will not have to purchase new binders throughout the year or the year after.

3. If you prefer to get some of the school stuff at the mall (backpacks, clothes, etc), look out for sales in fliers. On many occasions, even malls can have big mark downs on quality backpacks and clothes, but you have to get there as early as possible. When my sister and I got some of our school stuff at the mall, we would go about two weeks or so before school started. We would get our clothes and backpacks for 50, 60, or even 70% off the list price. JC Penny is known for having some really good sales a couple of weeks before school starts. One time, my sister got a backpack that was originally $50 for just $22! Not to mention, their backpacks are of great quality and may last for several years.

4. If your kid is lucky enough to get his/her list a couple of weeks before school starts, go down the list and search websites such as EBay. Elementary schools and middle schools typically give students a list of items in advance of the start of the school year.Chances are that you will find certain items for really cheap. You can get top brand shoes and clothes for dirt cheap. I knew someone who sold a thirty dollar outfit that was in perfect condition for just five dollars!

5. If you have a kid who lives within a mile or less from school and is not able to take a bus, a bike may be in order. There are many stores where bikes can be sold for discounted prices. Again, Wal-Mart and K-Mart are good choices. Bike shop prices tend to run higher, but some will have sales once in a while. Visit various bike shops around town and compare prices.

6. Clip coupons if you can. Also, many stores offer club cards that give discounts on a number of products. They really do make a big difference.

7. Look around the house for any items that can be salvaged from the previous school year. Chances are there are pens, pencils, calculators, rulers, and various other items that your child can still put to good use. This can save you several dollars right off the bat.

8. Attend Back to School Fairs at various locations in your area. This can include malls, shopping centers, and other areas. For the last several years, a number of mall locations in Las Vegas, Nevada and other areas around the state have held Back to School Fairs and have given many free items away.

9. Many states offer Back to School Health Fairs. This gives parents the opportunity to get their kids free immunizations so that everyone can get off to a healthy start for the new school year. As a matter of fact, many areas in Nevada are offering these fairs during the month of August.

10. Buy paper in bulk. There are some stores that will sell a huge amount of paper for really cheap. Some options may include Staples, Target, and even Costco. Staples sells a 150 pack of college ruled and wide ruled paper for just $1.99. Dollardays.com is a website that sells many items for discounted prices you'll find nowhere else. They even sell a number of school supplies including glue, #2 pencils, portfolio folders, tape, and pens for just forty nine cents or less!

Hopefully these suggestions will make your school shopping experience easier and more affordable. Have a wonderful and successful year.