Amy Wright’s back-to-school shopping tips

A couple of years ago I passed along a few basic tips for back to school shopping. Here's an update for 2014.

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It's hard to believe, in a few weeks the kids will be back in school, and yes, it's time to do some shopping. Unfortunately Labor Day comes very early this year, September first.

Back to school is the second biggest shopping season of the year. Parents will shell out about $600 for supplies and clothes.

So here are my tips:

Before you start shopping, get organized. Sit down and make a list of items that you really need. Lot's of school districts in New Jersey make it easier by providing a list of specific supplies to have on hand when the "school bell rings." Once you have your list, stick to it.
Now that you have your list, compare prices. Today is a great day to compare. Buy a Sunday newspaper. Check the circulars and ads for specials and coupons.
Take advantage of the 21st century and go online. Just Google "back to school savings." Hundreds of on-line retailers will appear including Amazon.
And finally, think about buying certain items in bulk. Sometimes you'll get a better deal if you buy in quantity. You may not need 60 pens right now. Pens, paper, and binders don't spoil. So, what you don't use this year can be saved for next year.

I'm sure lot's of you have some fantastic ideas for back to school shopping. Please comment and let us know.