Back to school

supplies, find out which purchases you can skip while remote learning takes place. Pens and pencils will come in handy at home, but a new backpack or lunchbox probably won’t get much use.

“Once you get that list from your teacher, ask them, ‘What are the necessary items and what are those nice-to-haves?’” says consumer savings expert Andrea Woroch.

Before you shop for necessities, take inventory of what you already have, Woroch says. You could save money by scrounging up leftover office supplies from last school year.

“Things like half-filled notebooks can still be used. Pull out the pages that have already been written on and save the rest,” Woroch says. “See what you can make do with, even if you’re just making do for the next two to three months.”

Tap into resources

Next, research ways to get help acquiring the items you don’t have. This

can reduce or eliminate additional expenses from your budget.

Some schools will lend devices like laptops and mobile hotspots to students without adequate internet access. If that isn’t the case at your school, Woroch recommends checking out organizations that connect people to low-cost internet and computers. Examples include EveryoneOn and PCs for People.

Many local libraries provide free education resources such as books, tutoring services and testprep materials. You can also use social media groups or other online forums to find

free or affordable clothing and supplies from families in your community.

Shop smart

Ultimately, you’ll likely have to purchase several items this back-to-school season. Strategic shopping can stretch your dollars further.

Establishing a digital relationship with retailers can help you navigate the process, especially if you’re unable to physically shop in stores or aren’t comfortable doing so. Follow retailers on social media or subscribe to their emails to receive news and sale information.

“Many brands and retailers are trying to be very upfront with what’s in stock, what to expect if you do decide to go to the store and what you can order online,” Cullen says.

Make sure to compare prices from different sellers. Do a quick internet search and use a pricecomparison tool, such as the browser extension InvisibleHand, to track down the best deals.

“Retailers are constantly fluctuating prices, and with so many people shopping online right now, they’re really trying to maximize their profits,” Woroch says.

Another savings tip?

Look for open-box or refurbished tech (ideally with a warranty) instead of buying new.

Give standard shopping advice a try, too: Ask about retailer price matching and price adjustment policies, seek out coupons and loyalty program discounts, and maximize your credit card rewards.