Back to School Shopping Survival Tips

According to a recent article in the L.A. Times, the average family has completed less than half their back-to-school shopping. If you've been putting off getting ready for the new school season--well, we can hardly blame you. Everyone wants to sell you something and shopping with and for the kids can be undeniably daunting.

But hang in there, we're here to help! Follow this game plan and earn and A+ on your back to school shopping trip.

Get Your Game Face On

No back to school shopper should enter the war zone without a good list. Gather all those wonderful teacher to parent handouts and get your kid involved. Most schools will give out a list of required supplies so you should have a good idea where to fill in the blanks for your child's needs.

Take Stock

Last year's glue sticks may never have even been opened. Check out what supplies you may have at home before you venture with the mobs to the stores.

Shop Before The Rush Hits

Many merchants are posting great back to school deals now. We've got pages of Back to School coupons--so get the deals while they're hot.

Promotions are Everywhere

Back to school is big business and to get you in the back to school mode, promotions are undeniably everywhere. That said, some of them are pretty great deals. Don't be afraid to present competitor coupons wherever you shop. Signing on also pays. Many merchants run special limited time offers online just for back to school and you may find you can save more money by shopping at home.

Shop Off-Season Clearance

Most merchants are offering big deals on summer items, or fall preview items. If you plan for the year ahead and shop off-season you can reap big savings.

Shop Online

Does the thought of venturing out into crowded stores with unruly mobs of children running about have you cowering in fear behind your sofa? (That would be OTHER people's children--we know YOURS are models of good behavior!) Thank goodness for the internet and promo codes to save you money. We've got you covered from head-to-toe, starting with Lids coupons right down to some great Shoes.com promo codes.

Time to stop procrastinating and finish getting ready for the upcoming school season. After all, the biggest thing to look forward to when you're finished with the back to school shopping is your kids going back to school!