Filed under: Personal Finance, Coupons, Budget
But parents are not off the hook yet. If the early sunsets and chilly nights haven't been enough of a hint, I'll be the bearer of bad news: It's fall. Cool weather means more shopping for the kiddies as the temperature continues to go down, but have no fear. The lower temperatures coming don't mean you have to burn a hole in your bank account to compensate. Here are 10 tips on how you can spend less on back to school fall shopping for your lovable Mini-Mes.
1. Layaway - The recession has caused a resurgence in this oldie but goodie. Layaway allows a consumer to place selected items on hold -- for a small fee -- with a retailer while they make payments in installments. Instead of balling out at the mall with a credit card, place your must-haves on layaway and purchase everything you need in cash (usually within 30-60 days).
2. Online Coupons - Clipping coupons isn't the only way to rack up on retailer discounts. Use your favorite search engine to look through sites such as www.couponcabin.com for discount codes for your top shops.
3. Shop Sales - Being a savvy shopper means you don't just use coupons - you know sales cycles. Does your favorite store offer extra savings if you shop on Wednesdays or are willing to comb their aisles at 7am on a Saturday? Find out.
4. Buy in Bulk - Some stores offer discounts if you buy more than one of the same or similar item. Jotting down a list of what you need more of allows you to maximize on savings without having excess. You can even slip a large purchase of goods with a friend.
5. Store Cards - Credit cards are like well-trained animals: As long as you know how to control them they rarely turn on you. That said, getting the store card of retailers where you'll likely do the lion's share of your shopping can be an asset if you manage the credit line properly -- which means pay the bill in full at the end of the month.
6. Thrift Stores - Second hand doesn't mean second class. There are tons of thrift stores that sell slightly - even never - worn items at great rates. Check your city paper and the local papers of posh neighborhoods to find out where to go.
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7. Ditch the Designer Labels - Everyone wants their kids to be fresh to death... but the mortgage needs to come first. If designer labels are killing your pockets, go for comparable quality sans the expensive tag. In the end, your kids will appreciate a roof over their head.
8. Shop Outlet/Discount Retailers - Outlet and discount retailers are great ways to save money -- but expect to work for it. Designate an afternoon to peruse racks and find the best of what they offer.
9. Your Closets - Many families are so used to shopping that they never take inventory of what they have. Look in your closets and bins to see what fits and what is needed -- not wanted. You may find some great things you forgot about or hand-me-downs that don't look down and out!
10. Make Them Earn It!! - There was a time when kids - especially tweens -- worked for things they wanted. They shoveled snow, picked leaves, mowed lawns, etc.... If your kids want a certain item, challenge them to meet you half way. The experience will help them understand the value of a dollar.
A trained life coach, S. Tia Brown has spent the last 10 years following her passion for journalism as an editor, writer and TV correspondent. Brown has worked for CNN, E!, MSNBC, the New York Daily News, Essence and Black Enterprise. Most recently she served as senior editor for In Touch Weekly magazine. Check out her advice column Do Better, Be Better at www.tiabrown.com.