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As much as we might like to deny it, summer is ending. For parents, this means that the time has come to get the kids ready to go back to school. Here at Tio Rico, we know that you work hard, but summer is expensive, and when it’s over there’s not always a lot left to spend on necessary things like back to school clothes, supplies, haircuts and everything else the kids need before they hop on the yellow bus for another year of education. Luckily, it’s easier than you might think to get everything you need while sticking to a tight budget.
Thrift is Terrific
As we all know, kids don’t make much of an effort to keep their clothes nice; and even when they do try, grass, juice, and art supply stains are nearly impossible to get out. Why not purchase lightly used clothes from your local thrift store? These stores are a great place to save money on kids clothes, and a fun place to shop with kids without worrying about them picking out something too pricey. The average kid’s shirt at a regular retail store is about $15, but at a thrift store, it will cost only $3-$5. You’ll get more clothes for your money, your kids can pick what they want, and you won’t have to worry if they stain or outgrow them in a month!
Dollar Store Diva
You’re not the only one in shock about how expensive things are these days! Remember when a pack of pencils cost less than a dollar, and we covered our textbooks with re-used paper grocery bags? If you choose to shop at a big retail mart, you’ll end up spending hundreds on school supplies, but there’s a much simpler option! Most towns and cities have a nearby dollar store. These stores are great because everything they sell is just a dollar, so you can get several packs of pencils and pens, plenty of book covers, erasers, notebooks, paper, and whatever else is on your kids’ back-to-school list. On average, shopping at a dollar store compared to a retail mart saves you between 50% and 75%! That’s a great deal and your kids will have everything they need!
Brown Bag It
The cost of school lunches can really add up, and unfortunately, many schools don’t offer healthy options to keep your kids full and energized through the day. Brown bag lunches packed at home are a great way to save money and keep your kids healthy through the school year. The first thing to have ready to pack is fruit. Fruit is a healthy carbohydrate that gives kids energy to think and play at recess or in P.E. Purchasing plenty of bananas, apples, and oranges give your kids an option each day and add a little sweet treat to their lunch. Next, purchase bulk packages or wheat tortillas or bread to make sandwiches and wraps. Fill them with plenty of vegetables, and don’t forget a healthy protein like rice and beans, canned tuna, or hard-boiled eggs. If your kids like to have a snack during the day, include a healthy granola bar or a package of almonds to give them an extra boost of energy when they need it.
Shop Smart, Save Big
By following these easy tips for back to school shopping, you can save money while preparing your kids for their busy school year. If you still don’t have enough to make ends meet, there are lots of loans in Arizona that can give you a quick sum of cash when you need it, allowing you to budget more effectively and make the most of what’s in your wallet. Getting a loan is easier than you think, and you don’t need to have perfect credit to apply. We know how busy you are, and that’s why our helpful representatives will guide you through the process so you’ll know if you’re approved in less than a half hour! Contact Tio Rico today to get started.
