When the fall hits, that’s a good sign that school is about to begin.  Our children are now going back to school, and the shopping needs to get done.  Not only do they need school supplies, and to get ready for school, but they also need a new wardrobe since they tend to grow so much in so little time.

School shopping can be a time to dread not only because our children are picky when it comes to clothes, but also because the clothes they like are always the most expensive ones in the store.  If you’re strapped for cash like most of America is right now, there are tips on how to help you save money.

School shopping doesn’t have to be dreadful anymore if you consider a few of these tips below.

Hand me downs – First of all, if they have older siblings of the same gender, you can simply use hand me downs.  The clothes are still in nice condition probably, and they most likely will wear the same type of clothing.  If you can send the clothes down the line, you will save a load of money, even if it’s just a few shirts.

Salvation Army - Your child may instantly say no way, but really have they even checked one out before?  If you’re looking for clothes that are dirt cheap, this is the best route to go.  You can find name brand clothes, clothes for a buck, and clothes that still have price tags on them!

The mall – Try going to the mall so that all the stores they like are in one place.  Then shop each store to see which ones have the best deals.  Try going around and comparing prices before you even buy anything.  Then give them a limit as to what they can spend, and see where the money takes them.

Plan ahead – You should never wait until the week of to do all the school shopping.  Try to get a few things each week that way you’re not really that strapped for cash, and so that you can see what greats are happening during that time.

School shopping is something that no mom or dad looks forward to.  Although, if you get the good deals, you can start talking about how good your trips were instead of how much they drained your wallet.