LYVLI Hacks: Back-to-School on a Budget

(Real-life tips to help you live better)

Back-to-school doesn’t have to mean breaking the bank. Whether you’re shopping for clothes, supplies, or snacks, here are some LYVLI-approved hacks to keep more money in your pocket and still start the year strong.

LYVLI Hacks for back to school!

1️⃣ 👖 Thrift is In — Trendy finds for a fraction of the cost.

Thrift shopping is officially cool. Check local thrift stores, consignment shops, or even curated secondhand boutiques for trendy clothes at a fraction of the cost.

2️⃣ 🧥 Cash in Your Closet — Sell gently used clothes to consignment stores.

Before you shop, shop your own home. Go through closets and drawers for clothes your family no longer wears. Stores like Plato’s Closet, Uptown Cheapskate, or local consignment shops will buy your gently used items. That’s instant cash for your back-to-school list.

3️⃣ 🍏 Snack Smart — Split bulk snacks from Costco/Sam’s with a friend.

If you have a Costco or Sam’s Club membership, buy snacks in bulk and split them with a friend. You’ll cut the cost in half, and might have enough to last the whole month.

4️⃣ 🛒 AI for the Win — Let ChatGPT be your personal shopper and hunt the best deals for your exact budget.

Skip the endless scrolling. Ask ChatGPT to find the best deals for your exact budget and needs. Example: “I have $80 to spend on my 9-year-old. I need one pair of jeans, three shirts, and a new backpack. Find the best options near me.”

5️⃣ 🎒 $5 Finds — Five Below has backpacks + supplies for under $5.

Stores like Five Below have backpacks for $5, plus notebooks, pencils, and art supplies for a fraction of the cost.

6️⃣ 📓 DIY Kits — Buy bulk supplies + split with 2–3 friends.

Buy school supplies in bulk (think 100 pencils, 50 notebooks) and split them with 2–3 friends. Everyone saves, and you all get exactly what you need without overspending.

7️⃣ 🎁 Community Freebies — Nonprofits & community centers often give away free backpacks/supplies.

Many nonprofits, community centers, and youth organizations host free backpack or supply giveaways — all you have to do is sign up.

Live Better, Live LYVLI and find joy and freedom in the everyday — and that includes how we shop, save, and spend.