Keeping the back-to-school list within the budget

Before you start back-to-school shopping, find ways to cut down on the number of supplies you have to buy. Here’s how.

KEEP THE LIST IN YOUR HANDS

In 2017, some 65 percent of back-to-school shoppers said half or more of their purchases are a direct result of their children’s influence, according to a National Retail Federation survey. So leave the kids at home.

OR, LET YOUR KIDS HELP OUT

If you’d rather take your kids with you, teach them about budgeting and prioritization, recommends Jill Fopiano, CEO and president of O’brien Wealth Partners LLC in Boston.

CROSS OUT THINGS YOU DON’T NEED

Follow the supply list from your child’s teach- er. And even then, exercise discretion. To counter the extra cost, remove, reduce or swap out some items. For example, just because the list calls for large quantities doesn’t mean you need them all right away. Remember, you have room within categories as well. A digital planner app could substitute for a paperbound planner.

GRADUALLY CHECK OFF ITEMS

For those things you do have to buy, don’t feel compelled to purchase everything at once. There are deals throughout the summer. For instance, Amazon’s Prime Day sale begins on Monday, and other retailers offer deals at the same time. Another money-saving strategy? Subscribe to monthly supply deliveries during the school year. — Nerdwallet