Americans Expected to Spend $128 Billion on Back-to-School Shopping—Here’s How to Save

COLORADO SPRINGS — Americans are gearing up for a record-breaking back-to-school shopping season, with spending projected to hit $128 billion, according to the National Retail Federation. But with prices on the rise and household budgets tightening, many families are looking for ways to cut costs—starting with secondhand shopping.

Local thrift stores are seeing more families turn to them for affordable alternatives on everything from clothing and backpacks to lunch boxes and sports gear.

“When I don’t have a job, it’s really good to get really good deals,” said Katherine Shannon, an incoming 8th grader at The Classical Academy in Colorado Springs. “Sometimes you can find better stuff at thrift stores than you can at Target or Walmart.”

Thrift shopper Linda Cohrs was out browsing racks for her granddaughter’s first day of school. “You want to find the best value,” she said. “I think a lot of people go to thrift stores now because you can buy name brands for a lot less.”

According to NRF data, families with students in grades K-12 are expected to spend an average of $858.07 on clothing, shoes, supplies, and electronics this year.

Big-box retailers are also offering seasonal savings to help families offset the cost:

• Target is offering a 20% discount for teachers.
• Walmart has slashed prices on school supplies—some by nearly half.
• Amazon features a dedicated back-to-school section with items starting at just $4.

Whether it’s shopping secondhand or taking advantage of early deals, budget-conscious families are finding creative ways to prepare for the school year without breaking the bank.
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