How to Save Money on Back to School Clothes

Last Updated Aug 3, 2020

Remember the first day of school when you were a kid? Walking up with a new backpack, pristine sneakers, and a crisp new outfit was part of the fun. Seeing what kind of new duds your friends had scored at the mall was fun, too.

Back To School 2020 might look a little different, but that doesn’t mean you should completely skip out on buying new clothes for your kiddos. After all, they can’t wear their shorts and tank tops forever, and if your kids are anything like mine, they’ve probably outgrown every single pair of jeans they own anyway.

Also, this is prime time to save on clothing. There are many great deals available this time of year, so even if your family will be learning from home, it’s actually an optimal time to get new stuff.

Here are some of our favorite tips and tricks to save money buying back to school clothes.

Don’t Skip The Clearance

Instead of starting your shopping trip at the front of the store, head right on back to the clearance rack. You can buy last season’s clothes at deeply discounted prices.

Here are some stores where you can almost always find a great deal on clearance.

Save Time and Money Shopping Online

It’s tempting to go shopping at your favorite local store so you can try things on immediately, but that’s not always the best way to save.

When you shop online, you can find savings galore. With coupon codes, free shipping and free returns, and email / text alerts when the things you love go on sale, online shopping might be your best bet to save big.

Check out these deals at some of our favorite online retailers.

Wait Until Labor Day

If you don’t need clothes or accessories right away, you can always wait until Labor Day weekend. So many stores have huge Labor Day sales - if you want it, chances are good it will be on sale then!

Even better, the fall clothing will be on sale then, too, so if you’re not in a warm climate, you’re in luck. You can stock up on sweaters, hoodies, jeans, and all the other cool weather essentials your family needs.

Click here to check out the hottest Labor Day Sales and Deals.

Go All In On Tax Free Weekend

If you’re in a state with tax free weekend, you can save on clothing and school supplies without lifting a finger. The amount you save depends on where you live, but it’s usually between 4% and 7%. Those might seem like small numbers, but every penny adds up!

Click here to see the dates for your state’s tax free weekend.

Take Advantage of Your Status

Did you know that students can get discounts for back to school just by proving their student status? Teachers can, too. Check out this site for student discounts and this site for teacher discounts. You’ll be surprised at how many retailers offer discounts of 10%, 15%, or even more - and all you have to do is sign up!

With all of these discounts, you and your family should be able to score some great new stuff for Back to School 2020. Stock up and enjoy that “new school year = new me" feeling!