What are some of the things that you need to purchase as you get ready for the back-to-school rush? I know my kids need new backpacks, along with general school supplies.
In addition, this is the time of year when I start to think about winter coats and boots. I know that's a bit over the top, but it puts my mind at ease to know that I'll have what I need, on hand, before the first snow falls.
So what are the things that you need? Before you run out to buy them, consider looking for them online, at sites like Freecycle.org, Craigslist.com, and eBay.com.
Both Freecyle and Craiglist will allow you to search for free items that you can pick up locally from someone who just wanted to pass it on to another person, rather than continue storing the item in a basement or garage, or just throwing them away. In addition, on eBay, you can usually find gently used items for a good price, if you know what you're looking for.
So before you spend money on big-ticket items--especially if you're sending a youngster off to college this year--make sure you try these cost-saving avenues first.
Related Resources: Save on Back-to-School Shopping | School Readiness Checklist
Read More Thrifty Thursday Blog Posts on the About.com Parenting Channel:
- Single Parents' Thrifty Thursday Blog Archive
- Get Free Chocolate
- Greeting Cards as Cheap Therapy
- Save Money by Working at Home
- Become a Haggler
- Useful Immigrant Savings Habits
- Saving Money When Packing a Bag for Labor & Delivery
- Avoid Overspending on School Supplies
- Savings Strategies for Fathers and Families
I have plenty I can get rid of on these sites too. Thanks for the idea, Jennifer!
Recession combat:
1) Free food at various Sikh Temples: Anyone can eat for free.
2) Give used DVD’s etc for Christmas presents. Save your money and give away stuff that you don’t need as Christmas presents.