MADISON (WKOW) -
It's a lot to manage: the list, the kids, the budget.
"I was thinking we would probably spend around 50 dollars for school supplies," said Mom Sarah Johnson of Portage.
Johnson is only shopping for one: little Haakon, heading to kindergarten. But the National Retail Federation expects most parents to spend $600 on back to school shopping! If you're looking to limit what you spend, here's what consumer experts say to do:
First, make that list. Next, try not to bring along the kids.
"Probably a disadvantage to bring my child along honestly," said Johnson. "I could have bought the fifty cent scissors instead of the camouflage ones."
Also, remember to compare prices online. It might save you some time on the road.
"I will probably go to 3 or 4 stores and see who has the best buy," said Shopper Pamela Cain.
Also, don't forget, retailers are fighting for your money. The back to school shopping season is worth 69 billion dollars to them. So you may be able to strike a deal.
"We do ad matching as long as the guest brings in a full ad with them," said Target Manager Aaron Denneau.
If you separate 'wants' from 'needs' and take an inventory of what you already have...
"He got a backpack last year and we are trying to use it again this year," said Michelle Keller, a mom from Richland Center.
You may be able to make that list, and budget, a bit easier to manage.
