7 ways to save on back-to-school shopping

'Tis the second-biggest season for spending.

For some retailers Christmas comes twice a year, and it’s going on now in shopping centers across the country, where parents and children are gearing up for back-to-school. The average family is expected to purchase more than $560 in clothing, electronics and school supplies, making the back-to-school season second only to the holidays in terms of per-shopper spending, according to the National Retail Federation. So you need to plan for it the same way you would for holiday gift buying, lest you end up with little left over come December. Here are seven ways to make sure you don’t amass holiday-sized debt this fall:

1. Shop around before leaving the house
Check advertising circulars from grocery stores, drug stores, office-supply stores and other retailers to find the lowest prices on the items you need. Then take the circulars to the closest store that will match their competitors’ lowest price. Bonus tip: Some stores don’t advertise their price-matching policies, but will match if you ask.

2. Computers: Buy recycled
Buying a refurbished computer, rather than a new one, can save you hundreds. You’ll want to be sure to buy one that is certified by the manufacturer or a reputable dealer, however.

3. Clothing can wait
It’s fun to have one spiffy new outfit for the first day of school, but much clothes shopping can be put off until several weeks after school begins, when the discounts – and the real autumn weather -- kick in.

4. Look online
Shopping online can be a wonderful way to save on gas and get rock-bottom prices. Just make sure your savings aren’t cancelled out by shipping costs, and you order at least two weeks before you’ll need the items.

5. Pair up for shoe buying
Many retailers offer buy-one-get-one-half-off specials this time of year. If you’ve only got one child, see if you can find a friend that needs shoes, and share the savings.

6. Buy in a bunch
The buddy system also applies to school-supply shopping. Buy in bulk at discount stores and online retailers, then split the savings with a friend.

7. Budgeting 101
Start the economics lessons early by buying prepaid debit cards, with which older children can purchase nonessential items. This way they can decide whether they really need that new backpack to replace last year’s barely used model, or if those designer shoes can wait until the real holiday season – in December.