Back to School Shouldn’t Break the Bank
When tax dollars start tingling your wallet more than usual, it’s time for strategic savvy. Here’s how parents can stretch their supply dollars while the Trump administration’s tariffs and higher prices bite into back-to-school budgets:
- Shop Early & Buy in Advance
Why it matters:
Many families are rushing to buy supplies early to lock in pre‑tariff prices. Retailers stocked up before new tariffs hit—so now’s the time to take advantage before prices climb further. Survey data reveals families are starting their shopping earlier than ever, and about half point to tariff concerns as the reason.
Actionable tips:
Stockpile essentials: Think like quantity: stock up on paper, binders, pencils, and glue sticks before prices adjust— retailers may keep prices flat temporarily—but that window is narrowing.
Use retailer price holds and early discounts: Some major chains are freezing prices on popular back-to-school items or offering early-season deals to draw shoppers in.
- Shop Smart — Alternative Brands, Used Options, and Bundles
Why it matters:
Trump Tariffs are inflating costs across categories: clothing, electronics, even textbooks are getting pricier (e.g., textbooks +10%, apparel +37%, electronics +17%, wood‑based school supplies like pencils +7%). Favoring affordable alternatives helps dodge sticker shock.
Actionable tips:
Go store-brand or generic: Store-brand clothing and supplies often cost 30–70% less than national labels and typically aren’t subject to tariff-related markups.
Consider refurbished electronics: Approved certified refurb items—like laptops and calculators—can save significantly compared to new, full-price counterparts.
Explore used goods markets: Platforms like Facebook Marketplace and Offer Up can turn up lightly used backpacks, uniforms, and shoes for well under retail—a smart, sustainable choice.
Use bundled kits wisely: Prepackaged back-to-school kits can save money but compare their contents and prices with buying individual items—you might find better deals by building your own set.
- Budget & Teach Financial Responsibility
Why it matters:
With rising back-to-school expenditures—averaging $858 per family in 2025 and totaling $39.4 billion nationally—budgeting is more crucial than ever. Parents are even trimming expenses elsewhere just to afford essentials.
Actionable tips:
Give kids a spending limit: Let your child handle a fixed amount of cash for their supplies. It teaches budgeting, decision-making, and the value of money when trade-offs become real.
Make a prioritized shopping list: Focus on must-haves—like notebooks and pencils—before impulse purchases. Limit first-day outfit splurges or extras unless prioritized.
Bonus Tip: Follow the Court Battle—But Don’t Count on Refunds
Litigation is underway. On May 28, 2025, the U.S. Court of International Trade (CIT) ruled Trump’s IEEPA-based tariffs illegal and permanently enjoined them—meaning they were declared unlawful. However, the Federal Circuit Court quickly issued a stay, keeping the tariffs in force as appeals proceed. If overturned fully, the refund likely goes only to named plaintiffs—not to everyday consumers—so it’s unlikely parents will receive compensation.
References
Here’s what Trump’s tariffs mean for back-to-school shopping in Connecticut
Shopping for school supplies becomes a summer activity as families juggle technology and tariffs
Your back-to-school essentials are about to get 20% more expensive – but Target and Walmart have a workaround
https://www.the-sun.com/money/14938963/back-to-school-essentials-tariffs-walmart-target/
The U.S. Court of International Trade Struck Down President Trump’s IEEPA Tariffs – What Happens Now?
Parents Concerned About Higher Back-To-School Costs Are Pulling Back On Spending
https://www.investopedia.com/parents-are-concerned-about-higher-back-to-school-supply-costs-11770155