10 Ways to SAVE on Back to School Clothes

How to Save Money on Back to School Clothes

If you’re worried about how much back to school shopping is going to cost this year – don’t stress! 

While it may feel like summer is just starting, before long, back to school sales will be in full swing before we know it.  No matter if you’re buying jeans, tops, shoes, school uniforms, or backpacks – here are 10 smart money saving tips so you don’t spend more than you need on back to school. 

10 Ways to Save Money on Back To School Clothes Shopping

1. Have a Try-On Day

   Have your kids try on EVERYTHING in their closets so you know exactly what you need — and what can go! Donate extra items or things they’ve outgrown to Goodwill or take to a consignment shop.

2. Sell Used Clothes at Consignment Stores

   Earn cash or store credit by cleaning out gently used items. Then use those earnings toward new clothes. Several years ago I was able to make $70 in 2 Hours cleaning out my youngest’s closet!

3. Shop Your Local Thrift Store

   Thrift stores can be gold mines when it comes to back to school shopping. I’ve picked up brands like Ralph Lauren, Abercrombie, and Banana Republic all for under $4. AND keep an eye out—many stores have half-price tag days too!

4. Tax Free Weekends

   Make sure you do the bulk of your store shopping during your state’s Tax Free Weekend if available! You could save up to 10% extra on clothing, shoes, and even computers. Just double check your state’s rules before heading out.

5. Don’t Miss Old Navy Sales

   Old Navy is SUCH a good place to shop for kids’ school clothes. They frequently offer sales and coupons you can stack for even better deals. Sign up for Old Navy emails to stay in the loop!

   Pro Tip: Don’t miss our 10 Secrets to Saving at Old Navy!

6. Swing By an Outlet Mall

   Outlet malls can help you knock out all your back to school shopping in one trip. But not all outlet deals are great—start by checking the store’s site for sales and coupons. Set a budget before you go!

   Also note: some stores sell “factory versions” of their regular clothing, which can be lower quality (e.g., thinner fabric, no lining).

   Bonus Tip: Big brands like Nike, Under Armour, and Adidas often give you a discount or free shipping just for signing up for their email lists.

7. Don’t Forget About TJ Maxx, Ross, and Marshall’s

   I LOVE shopping for name-brand clothes at T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshall’s—usually 50% off mall prices or more. It’s also a great place for name-brand athletic shoes!

   Check out our tips for shopping T.J.Maxx here (Tip #1 is my favorite!).

8. Shop The Children’s Place Online

   The Children’s Place offers free shipping with no minimum, which is rare these days! Sign up for their emails to get alerts on sales and stock up on colorful basics and jeans at great prices.

9. Have a Clothing Swap with Friends

   If you have friends with kids close in age, set a time to swap outgrown clothes. And don’t be shy about accepting hand-me-downs from friends with older kiddos!

10. Check Local Consignment Events

    Consignment sales can be seasonal goldmines! They may not always align with back-to-school, but you can score huge savings year-round.

How do YOU save money on back to school clothes shopping?
Please share in the comments – We’d love to feature your ideas in a future post!

Check out more of our Back to School Sales:

• 👟 Affordable Kids’ Shoes – Try FabKids Shoes!
• 👓 Need Glasses or Contacts? Save at Warby Parker
• 🎒 Best Backpack Sales – See what’s in stock now
• 👟 Adidas Shoes Under $30? Yes, please.