Don’t tell the kids, but it’s not too early to think about school – specifically, back-to-school shopping. This can be one of the most expensive and time-consuming events for families: navigating long classroom supply lists, updated tech needs, and wardrobe changes for fast-growing kids eats up both time and money. Starting your shopping this month can help you save significantly and reduce stress. Here’s how to get ahead and make the most of your budget.

July Is Not Too Early

If you think July is too early to start your back-to-school shopping, think again. According to the National Retail Federation, by early July last year, more than half of back-to-school and college shoppers had already begun checking items off their lists – some even started in June.

Many retailers begin rolling out deals right after the Fourth of July so families can beat the last-minute rush and enjoy the rest of their summer break without worrying about dwindling inventory. Shopping early means better selection, less pressure, and access to the first wave of discounts – especially important for big-ticket items like laptops, tablets, and calculators, which tend to sell out quickly.

There’s also a practical financial benefit: spreading out purchases over several weeks eases the burden on your wallet. Buying a little at a time gives you the opportunity to comparison shop instead of grabbing the first “deal” you see or settling for leftovers on the shelf. And shopping earlier can help you avoid unwelcome price hikes later.

Deals Worth a Look

Look for discounts on school essentials like:

• Clothing & Shoes: Look for buy-one-get-one (BOGO) deals and clearance sales on summer clothing that can still be worn into early fall, particularly if you live in a warm climate region.
• Tech Devices: Many major retailers host mid-summer sales on laptops, tablets, and headphones. And don’t forget to check out the Transocean Discount Marketplace for great tech deals.
• Supplies: Look for crayons, markers, glue sticks, folders, and notebooks in heavily discounted bulk packs.

Online vs. In-Store Shopping

So, where can you find the best deals – online or in stores? The answer is both, depending on what you're shopping for. Online retailers often offer broader selections, flash sales, and exclusive online-only discounts, especially on electronics and bulk items. However, brick-and-mortar stores frequently offer in-person-only promotions and clearance racks, particularly for clothing and school supplies. Smart shoppers often combine both approaches: browsing online for price comparisons and heading in-store to scoop up unadvertised deals. And of course, online shopping offers families the convenience of at-home shopping.

Tax-Free Weekends

Many states will offer tax-free shopping between late July and mid-August. These events allow you to buy qualifying school items without paying sales tax – and in some states, the savings also apply to clothing and electronics up to a certain amount. Even without retailer discounts, tax-free weekends are a no-hassle way to save money and stretch your budget. To see if and when your state is participating, check out this roundup of 2025 tax-free weekends for dates and details.

What’s Best in Bulk?

Certain supplies are worth buying in bulk now to last all year or share among siblings:

• Notebooks, folders, pens, and pencils: Often cheaper per unit in multi-packs.
• Tissues, hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes: Commonly requested by teachers and easy to store.
• Craft supplies: This includes things like glue, permanent or washable markers, and poster board.
• Snacks and lunchbox staples: Stock up on non-perishables when grocery stores run school-themed promotions.

Don’t forget to check your office supply stores for deals on many of these items.

Final Tips to Save More

• Reuse what you can: Check last year’s supply stash before you begin buying for this year.
• Price match: Some stores will match competitors' prices with proof of the competing price.
• Digital coupons: Check your retail store apps for added discounts, as well as shopping browser extensions that might offer deals, coupons, discount codes, or cash back on purchases.

By planning ahead in July, you can beat the financial heat that often accompanies back-to-school purchases. Plus, you’ll have more time to hunt for bargains, avoid crowds, and make sure your child or college student is fully prepared for the upcoming school year.