Back-to-school season is here, and for parents, that often means watching the bills stack up. From new clothes and classroom supplies to tech gear and activity fees, the costs can quickly add up. But with a little planning and some smart budgeting, you can stay on track and avoid unnecessary financial stress.
Here are some helpful strategies to manage your back-to-school spending this year, plus some checklists to help organize your back-to-school shopping list.
Before you rush to the store or start filling your online cart, do a supply sweep at home. You might be surprised at how many perfectly good items are tucked away in drawers, closets, and last year’s backpacks.
Make it a family activity, have your kids help gather what they already have. It’ll make them feel involved and reduce the chances of duplicate purchases.
Here are starter checklists to help you assess what you already have vs. what you still need to buy:
Take notes on what you already have and what’s still needed. This alone can save you a big chunk of change.
Once you’ve taken inventory, it's time to budget. Back-to-school costs can vary widely depending on your child's grade level and whether they need electronics or uniforms—but having a clear budget helps avoid overspending.
Here’s how to break it down:
Assign a dollar amount to each category and do your best to stay within it. Pro tip: Use a prepaid debit card or cash envelopes to keep spending in check while shopping.
If you're on a tight budget, prioritize the must-haves and plan to purchase nice-to-haves like new outfits or extra gear after school starts.
This one’s a major money-saver. South Carolina’s Tax-Free Weekend happens this year from Friday, August 1, to Sunday, August 3, 2025. During this time, you can buy school supplies, clothing, shoes, and computers without paying sales tax.
Here’s what’s included:
The average savings can be anywhere from 6% to 9%, depending on what you're buying. Make a shopping plan ahead of time so you can take full advantage during the tax holiday weekend.
Don’t wait until the week before school starts when prices are up and shelves are empty. July is the sweet spot for deals and better selection.
Here’s how to save big:
If you have multiple kids, consider bulk buying basic items like glue sticks, tissues, or pencils. Then divide and conquer.
Many local organizations and nonprofits host back-to-school supply drives and giveaways in July and early August.
Places to check:
Even if you only get a backpack or a few essentials, every bit helps lighten the load.
Even the best budget can’t always cover the total cost, especially if you’re sending multiple kids back to school or need to replace tech devices. A personal installment loan can help you cover necessary expenses without putting everything on a high-interest credit card.
This option can give your family breathing room, so your kids start the year with confidence, and you stay in control of your finances.
Back-to-school shopping doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. By planning ahead, shopping smart, and tapping into helpful financial tools like personal loans, you can give your child everything they need to succeed, without putting your budget under pressure.
Apply for a personal installment loan today or visit your nearest Sunset Finance office. We’re here to support your family, this season and beyond.