Tips on Going Back to School on a Budget

It’s time to start thinking about getting back to school, which means you need to get prepared. As much as you need to be prepared financially, you and your kids need to be ready for the new routines and expectations that come with every new school year. One consumer survey estimates that each back-to-school shopper will spend over $500 this year for back to school clothes, shoes, and supplies. Almost half of back-to-school shopping is done in August, though you may be part of the 30% that has already started. Not surprisingly, more parents than ever plan to shop online to take advantage of the many discounts, coupons, and free-shipping deals. To help you with your back-to-school shopping, here are a few items that are trending: Lunchbox With the government’s recent ban on BPAs, some manufacturers are making thermal containers and water bottles out of stainless steel. The downside is that the initial cost is higher. The upside is that these products last longer, don't hold odors, don’t stain, are reusable, and don't leak toxins into your child's lunch. School Supplies This year, superheroes are in with the younger set thanks to movies like "The Avengers." Other must-haves for elementary school kids are notebooks, lunch boxes, and backpacks featuring Angry Birds. For older kids, look for school supplies with “glitz” or animal prints in an assortment of colors. The Tech-Savvy Kids of all ages want tablet computers and smartphones, but those going off to college will benefit the most from access to these devices. For example, a tablet computer can serve as your entertainment center by allowing you to stream movies and TV shows, play music and games, and read eBooks via several free apps. They also serve as a learning aid for taking notes, recording lectures, and for carrying around digital versions of textbooks. Clothing For girls, skinny jeans and ballerina flats are popular. For students who wear school uniforms, flowered headbands are a hit, thanks to shows like "Gossip Girl." Also look for floral prints and tribal themes this season. For guys, retailers are stocking bright colors and classic prints -- think wide horizontal stripes and argyle. To help ease the stress of heading back back-to-school, here are the latest offers to help you save some money: Land’s End 20% OFF kids apparel & school uniforms with code (expires 8/1/12) Free Shipping on $50+ orders Levi’s 25% OFF Straight Fit Jeans with code (expires 8/6/12) Free Shipping on $100+ orders Target $5 OFF $50 purchases $10 OFF 2 Jansport backpacks with codes (expires 8/5/12) Apple Free $100 Back to School Gift Card when you buy a Mac (expires 9/22/12) Free $50 Back to School Gift Card when you buy an iPad (expires 9/22/12)