As the back-to-school season approaches, many parents and students are looking for ways to save on essential supplies. Here are seven tips to help you make the most of your budget:

1. Create a Budget and Stick to It: Before you start shopping, determine how much you can afford to spend. Make a list of necessary items and prioritize them. This will help you avoid impulse purchases and stay within your budget.
2. Shop Sales and Use Coupons: Keep an eye out for sales, discounts, and coupons. Many stores offer significant savings during the back-to-school season. Combine sales with coupons for even greater discounts.
3. Buy in Bulk: For items like notebooks, pens, and pencils, consider buying in bulk. This can often be cheaper in the long run, especially if you have multiple children or can share supplies with other families.
4. Take Advantage of Tax-Free Weekends: Many states offer tax-free weekends during the back-to-school season. Plan your shopping around these dates to save on sales tax.
5. Use Credit Card Rewards: If you have a credit card that offers rewards, use it for your back-to-school shopping. You can earn points, cash back, or other rewards that can help offset the cost of supplies.
   1. Apply for a VISA Rewards Platinum credit card with Peoples Bank and Trust. As you shop for back-to-school supplies, get rewards points you can redeem on merchandise and travel. Enjoy fraud monitoring and zero fraud liability! Learn about the VISA Rewards Platinum today.
6. Shop Online: Online retailers often offer competitive prices and exclusive deals. Plus, you can easily compare prices across different websites to find the best deals.
7. Open a Savings Account: Consider opening a savings account specifically for back-to-school expenses. By setting aside a small amount each month, you can build up a fund to cover these costs without straining your budget.

By following these tips, you can make back-to-school shopping more affordable and stress-free. Happy shopping!