Back to School is an exciting moment, but sometimes it gets a bit too pricey. The trick here is having a strategy, being methodical. Don't rush to the store, first read these 5 tips for saving money on this Back to School and see if they are in line with what you want to do.

1. Inventory

We often find ourselves buying the things our kids need for the school year without first checking what we already have at home, and that's how we end up buying a bunch of things we didn't really need. Make a sweep, gather all the office / school related items in your home and compare it with what you know your kids will need for school.

2. Make a List

Of course you'll be missing some items. Make a list of these items that you don't have. This step might seem too obvious, but we cannot stress this enough. It's a common mistake. Lists help us get organized and being organized leads to more efficient and just plain better buying decisions on our part.

3. No New Backpack

A lot of people buy new backpacks every year for their kids. That's definitely overkill. Backpacks can last a lot longer than a year, even if your little angel is a bit of a mischief specialist. So think about it. Look at your kids backpacks and wonder if they're good for another go. Ultimately, this is a personal decision and, for you and your family, buying a new backpack every year can be seen as some kind of tradition. If that's the case and you wish to keep it that way then, by all means, do so, but also think about how cool it is to have the same backpack with you for many years. It acquires something... character. Like a pair of jeans or a nice jacket.

4. Stick to Your Plan

So you have your list and you have your budget, now stick to that. Go the store or shop online (sometimes shopping online can save you a bunch, do consider it), but don't let advertisement steer you off, stick to your plan, don't buy things that aren't on your list. This sounds pretty easy, but it's not. We're confident in your abilities though.

5. Home Cooked Meals

You can save a ton of money throughout the year if, instead of sending your kids to eat at the school cafeteria, you send them home cooked meals. It can also be a healthier decision. We actually got you covered on this. Our airtight sealed containers make for amazing lunchboxes that will protect your kid's food and their backpack. You really can send any kind of food, even liquids, with Popit! there's be no mess. Check out our Back to School Spill Test!