Back to School sales seem to start almost as soon as your children leave school for the holidays. For parents, these sales are one of the best ways to save money and save big. Let’s take a look at some the ways for you to realize savings as you prepare to send your children off to school.

1. Sales. Yes, Back to School sales are still real bargains for parents. National retail chains all run sales. There are different group of stores at great places and different local locations to shop for clothing and book bags while other groups will feature cut rate school supplies.

2. Discount Stores. Almost every town in the UK has discount stores where everything is, you guessed it, sold for one pound or no more than five pounds. Many of these stores are hit or miss as far as what they carry or what they have available. Some items, even at a pound, are much more expensive than those found “on sale” at regular retailers.

3. Clearance Outlets. Your kids may protest, but the close out stores will carry items your family can use. Sure, the clothing may be way out of style, but lunchboxes, pens, stationary, bookbags, and the like generally are not.

4. Hand Me Downs. Big bro or big sis may have articles of clothing or items they no longer use. If they are gently worn/used consider passing these things on to your younger children.

5. Garage, Boots and Yard Sales. Your child’s lunchbox or calculator may be found at your neighbor’s or boots sale instead of at a retailer. Expect prices to be 50-90% less than full retail.

6. Charity Shops. Did someone say, charity shop? Okay, this is a bit of a stretch. Your child will probably scream if you take them to a charity shop, so you can go instead. More than likely what you buy will be for your personal use. Use the money saved to purchase the Nike shoes for your child in college.

7. Tax Free Shopping. If you live in an area of tax free or low tax shopping you can go there to save on purchases. In some cases this type of shopping can be done on holidays out of the country and on returning back into your home country. Savings on back to school items can be huge.

There are other ways for you to save money on school supplies including shopping online or by buying in bulk. Back to School shouldn’t mean back in debt provided you shop carefully and wisely.