Inflation and supply chain issues are making shopping a headache and parents are bracing for more sticker shock ahead of the annual back-to-school rush.
A story in Fortune cited a 2022 survey from financial services firm Deloitte found that parents expect to spend $661 per child on average in the lead-up to the start of school. The report found that the cost of supplies is up 8% from last year and 21% from 2019.
With that in mind, the Better Business Bureau is trying to help parents with tips and resources to save, especially regarding big-ticket items like laptops.
"Whether your student is learning in person or online, when you're buying that new equipment, check with your student's school to learn about the technical requirements," said Atlanta BBB Spokeswoman Simone Williams. "Research the brand's warranties, customer reviews and prices at various stores to ensure you're getting the best deal."
The BBB also urges parents to ask for discounts. Some stores and software companies offer deals geared toward students, whether it means inputting a student email or presenting a student ID.
Williams explains that it's also a good idea to sign up for marketing and promotional items if you get some savings on your purchase.
When it comes to items that the whole class will share, you should consider buying in bulk and maybe partnering with other parents and dividing up the list.
"Start that village and break up that cost amongst a group of families, so you're not taking that cost solely on yourself," Williams said.
Where there's a market, there will be scammers looking to take advantage, but Williams says you can protect yourself simply by doing your research. They are seeing scammers creating fake websites and selling school supplies for meager prices.
"Don't just believe that if you're going to buy something, you're going to receive the product," Williams said.
The Bureau also advises you to avoid making person-to-person purchases using popular cash apps like Zell or Venmo because getting your money back is harder.
You can find more resources and tips at the BBB Back to School HQ.
