Back-to-School Costs: Navigating Tariffs and Inflation

Ever stared at a pile of school supplies and felt your wallet whimper? As a parent, I’ve been there, standing in the aisle, calculator in hand, trying to make sense of why a simple backpack costs more than my weekly grocery bill. With the 2025 back-to-school season in full swing, parents across the country are grappling with a new financial hurdle: rising costs driven by inflation and the looming threat of tariffs. It’s not just about buying pencils and notebooks anymore—it’s about navigating a tricky economic landscape to keep your kids ready for school without breaking the bank.

Why Back-to-School Shopping Feels Like a Budget Battle

The back-to-school season has always been a pricey time of year, but 2025 is hitting parents harder than usual. A recent survey found that 20% of parents feel their budgets are stretched thin just to cover essentials like backpacks and binders. Meanwhile, another study revealed that 39% of parents say they flat-out can’t afford school supplies this year. What’s driving this financial squeeze? Two words: inflation and tariffs.

Inflation has been creeping up, pushing the prices of everyday items like notebooks and sneakers higher than last year. Add to that the uncertainty around new tariff policies, and you’ve got a recipe for parental stress. These tariffs, set to kick in soon, could make imported goods—think backpacks, electronics, and even clothing—significantly more expensive. It’s enough to make any parent wonder: how do I make this work?

Parents are feeling the pinch as costs rise, and the threat of tariffs is only adding to the anxiety.

– Consumer finance expert

The Inflation Sting: What’s More Expensive in 2025?

Let’s break it down. The producer price index, a key measure of what it costs to make goods, shows that school essentials are pricier this year. Backpacks, for example, have seen a noticeable price hike since 2019. Other items like notebooks, pens, and even gym shoes aren’t far behind. Families with kids in elementary through high school are looking at an average spend of $858.07 on school supplies, according to one major retail survey. That’s down slightly from last year’s $874.68, but don’t let that fool you—prices are still higher across the board.

Why does this matter? Because every dollar counts when you’re juggling rent, groceries, and maybe a kid who insists on the “cool” backpack with the superhero logo. I’ve been that parent, torn between sticking to a budget and wanting my kid to feel confident on the first day of school. It’s a tough balance.

• Backpacks: Up by an average of 8% since last year.
• Notebooks and paper: Costs have risen due to supply chain issues.
• Clothing: Sneakers and uniforms are pricier, with some items up 10%.

Tariffs: The Looming Threat to Your Wallet

Now, let’s talk about tariffs. These are taxes slapped on imported goods, and they’re set to shake things up. Originally planned for April, the new tariff rates were delayed to August 1, 2025. That means we haven’t felt the full impact yet, but it’s coming. The proposed 10% baseline tariff on nearly all countries, with even higher rates for some, could drive up the cost of everything from calculators to gym bags.

Why does this hit parents so hard? A lot of school supplies are imported, and tariffs mean those costs get passed on to us. One retail analyst put it bluntly: “At some point, if tariffs come in, there will be price impacts.” That’s not exactly comforting when you’re already cutting corners to afford school lunches.

Consumers are right to be concerned about tariffs. Prices will likely climb, and families will feel it.

– Retail industry analyst

So, what’s a parent to do? Many are already shifting gears, shopping smarter to dodge the financial hit. But before we dive into those strategies, let’s look at how parents are feeling the pressure—and what it means for their budgets.

The Emotional Toll of Rising Costs

It’s not just about dollars and cents. The stress of back-to-school shopping can weigh heavily on parents. A whopping 44% of parents say they’re planning to take on debt to cover school supplies this year, up from 34% in 2024. That’s a big jump, and it speaks to the growing anxiety around making ends meet.

I’ve talked to friends who feel torn between wanting their kids to have what they need and dreading the credit card bill. Some parents even feel pressure to splurge on trendy items—like that must-have first-day outfit—just so their kids can “fit in.” According to one survey, 46% of parents would go into debt to buy items that help their kids feel included at school. It’s a gut punch to think that financial strain is now part of the back-to-school experience.

Smart Shopping: Strategies to Save in 2025

Here’s the good news: you don’t have to let inflation and tariffs ruin your back-to-school season. Parents are getting creative, and there are plenty of ways to stretch your dollar. From shopping early to hunting for deals, here are some strategies that can make a real difference.

Shop Early to Beat Price Hikes

One smart move? Start shopping before August. A recent report found that 62% of parents plan to get a head start on back-to-school shopping, up from 54% last year. Why? Getting in early lets you snag deals before prices climb higher due to tariffs or demand. Plus, it gives you time to compare prices and avoid last-minute panic buys.

I’ve found that shopping in July often means better selection and lower prices, especially on big-ticket items like laptops. It’s like getting the best seat at a concert—you’ve got to show up early.

Embrace Discount Retailers

Another tactic is switching to more affordable stores. About 65% of parents say they’ll shop at budget-friendly retailers instead of their usual go-to stores. Think discount chains or even thrift stores for gently used items. You’d be surprised how many barely-worn uniforms or backpacks you can find at a fraction of the cost.

One friend of mine swears by thrift stores for her kids’ school clothes. She says it’s not just about saving money—it’s about teaching her kids that “new” doesn’t always mean better. Plus, it’s eco-friendly, which is a nice bonus.

Hunt for Sales and Tax Holidays

Don’t sleep on sales-tax holidays. These typically happen in late July or early August and can save you a chunk of change on big purchases like computers or clothing. Check your state’s schedule and plan your shopping around these dates. Pair that with summer sales, and you could knock a serious dent in your shopping list.

Consumer savings experts also suggest using price-tracking apps or browser extensions to find the best deals. These tools can alert you when prices drop or help you apply coupon codes automatically. It’s like having a personal shopping assistant in your pocket.

1. Check for sales-tax holidays in your state.
2. Use price-tracking tools to monitor deals.
3. Look for coupon codes before checking out.

Go Secondhand for Big Savings

Resale sites are a goldmine for back-to-school shopping. From gently used clothing to certified-refurbished electronics, you can find high-quality items at a steep discount. One consumer expert I spoke with raved about buying refurbished laptops for her kids’ schoolwork—it saved her hundreds without sacrificing quality.

Secondhand doesn’t mean second-rate. I’ve scored some amazing deals on sports gear for my son through local buy-and-sell groups. It’s a win-win: my wallet stays happy, and my kid gets what he needs.

Cut Back on Nonessentials

Here’s a tough but effective tip: skip the nonessentials. About 56% of parents are cutting back on extras like trendy sneakers or fancy pencil cases to save money. It’s not always easy—kids can be persuasive—but focusing on what’s truly necessary can keep your budget in check.

Maybe it’s just me, but I think there’s something empowering about teaching kids to prioritize needs over wants. It’s a life lesson wrapped in a shopping strategy.

How Much Are Parents Spending?

Let’s put some numbers on the table. One major retail survey estimates that back-to-school spending for K-12 students will hit $39.4 billion in 2025. That breaks down to about $570 per child, according to another report. While these figures are slightly lower than last year, the higher prices mean parents are getting less for their money.

These numbers tell a story of families trying to stretch every dollar. But they also show that parents are adapting—whether it’s by shopping smarter or rethinking what’s “essential.”

The Bigger Picture: Planning for the Future

Beyond back-to-school season, the rising costs we’re seeing now are a reminder to plan ahead. Tariffs and inflation aren’t going away anytime soon, so building a solid financial strategy is key. Maybe it’s setting up a dedicated savings account for school expenses or teaching your kids about budgeting early on. Whatever your approach, a little foresight can go a long way.

In my experience, talking openly with kids about money helps them understand why we make certain choices. It’s not just about saving for school supplies—it’s about building habits that last a lifetime.

Financial planning isn’t just for adults. Teaching kids to budget can ease the stress of back-to-school season.

– Parenting coach

Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This

Back-to-school shopping in 2025 might feel like a financial obstacle course, but parents are proving they’re up to the challenge. With inflation pushing prices up and tariffs on the horizon, it’s more important than ever to shop smart. Whether you’re hitting the thrift stores, timing your purchases for tax holidays, or skipping the trendy extras, every small choice adds up.

Perhaps the most interesting aspect is how this season is teaching us resilience. Parents are finding ways to balance budgets, prioritize needs, and still make sure their kids step into the classroom with confidence. It’s not easy, but it’s doable. So, take a deep breath, grab that price-tracking app, and tackle that shopping list—you’ve got this.