When does back-to-school shopping start?

If you’re wondering when to start back-to-school shopping, you’re not alone. Each summer, parents everywhere ask the same question, usually while staring at a school supply list that seems longer every year.

So, when does the back-to-school shopping season start? Retailers tend to launch deals in early July, but the best time for your family might depend on your goals: snagging the biggest savings, beating the rush, or just getting it all done before the first bell rings.

When back-to-school shopping starts

Back-to-school shopping typically starts in July. While school start dates vary, most major retailers kick off their back-to-school promotions right after the Fourth of July. According to Reuters, stores like Target and Walmart now launch early deals in July to catch shoppers before vacation season ramps up.

Some families shop early to spread out expenses, while others wait for state tax-free holidays in late July or early August.

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Key dates to know:

• Early July: National chains begin advertising school supplies, backpacks and electronics

• Mid-to-late July: Prime Day and competing sales events ramp up the discounts

• Late July to early August: Tax-free holidays in many states offer added savings

• Mid-August: Clearance events begin as stores prep for fall merchandise

How shopping habits are shifting

For many families, back-to-school shopping has turned into a more intentional process. Instead of knocking it all out in one trip, parents are spreading purchases across several weeks, starting with the essentials and holding off on the rest until closer to the first day of school.

This staggered approach can give families more breathing room, especially when it comes to budgeting. Stocking up on core supplies early, like notebooks, glue sticks, and everyday clothing, makes it easier to take advantage of rolling sales and avoid the stress of buying everything at once. Then, as class lists and teacher notes roll in, parents can fill in the gaps with the rest of what’s needed.

This can be a practical way to stay flexible and make smarter financial decisions.

Tips to shop smarter this school season

If you're hoping to stay on budget and avoid the last-minute scramble, here are some parent-approved strategies:

1. Take inventory before you shop

Grab what you already have at home—half-used notebooks, perfectly good backpacks, forgotten art supplies. You might be surprised how much you can cross off the list right away.

2. Use store apps and tools

Many retailers let you upload your child’s school list directly into their app or site. Some even sync with local schools so you can buy exactly what’s required, giving you one less thing to worry about.

3. Compare prices across retailers

Deals may vary by item. You could find better prices on crayons at one store and laptops at another. Price-matching policies can also help, especially during competitive sale periods like Amazon Prime Day.

4. Time your big-ticket purchases

Need headphones, calculators or a new laptop? Wait for tech-specific sales in late July or early August. This is often when stores offer bundle deals or markdowns ahead of college move-in season.

5. Loop in your kids (within reason)

Getting kids involved can help them feel more ownership over the process and their school year. Try setting a budget for extras like character folders or new lunch gear. It can even be a hands-on lesson in smart spending. 

Develop a plan that works for your family

Back-to-school shopping doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With a little planning, you can get it done wisely without taking over the end of your summer. Whether you’re all-in on early bird deals or saving it for the weekend before school, the key is finding what works for your family.

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This blog post is provided "as is" and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional advice. Some content in this post may have been created using artificial intelligence; however, every blog post is reviewed by at least two human editors.