Did you recently move into the area for the start of the school year? If so, welcome!
Save some time with ideas for unpacking into the new school year:
Create a Plan:
Create a list before heading out. Check for items around the house before leaving! Try to create a separate list or take a picture with a phone to avoid bringing the original paper. It is easy to lose the syllabus or teacher’s list when shopping.
Some items to remember: anything missing on the school list, commonly used items (paper, pens, etc.), groceries, dorm supplies, flash drive, and book protectors. Don’t forget to stock up on items that are used during the entire year that are more affordable right now. Paper, pens, folders, flash cards, and other items run out or become damaged and having extra can be helpful.
Finding Supplies on Short Notice:
Having trouble finding missing textbooks, unique supplies, or common items that are in short supply? Most textbooks can be found at the school store, online, or in local area book stores. Sometimes for less common textbooks or other items, overnight shipping online may an option if they are difficult to find.
Some store may be willing to hold an item, search online and call stores to see if they have books or larger items. If nearby stores are out of stock, driving to nearby stores or close-by towns might have harder to find items. Also, a store is out of a certain item but it is more common, ask if they have a truck coming. Sometimes stores are able to restock items that are high in demand for the school year.
Avoiding the Lines:
Avoid the lines at back to school time by shopping early or at less peak times. For stores that are open 24 hours, the early morning is usually the best time to visit to avoid large checkout times and crowded parking lots.
Looking for Items:
Try some of these locations an item is sold out:
– dollar stores
– local bookstores
– online
– smaller stores like CVS, Walgreens
– grocery stores (they get a good about of school supplies in stock)
– office supply stores
– craft supply stores (Michael’s, Hobby Lobby, Jo-Ann’s)
Food and Snacks:
Make sure to consider shopping for your favorite meals and snack items for the new school year. Having some meals ready can help things go easier when it is busier. Cooking on the weekend for the week can be a great idea if you have some extra time.
