How to Prepare for Back-to-School Expenses: From Memphis and the Mid-South to Across the Nation

Back-to-school season means freshly sharpened pencils, new shoes, and a world of possibility—but it can also mean a sharp rise in expenses. Whether you're in Memphis, Collierville, or anywhere in the Mid-South, smart prepping and community support can take the sting out of the season. Let's explore practical strategies, regional resources, and top national trends to help families start the academic year with confidence and savings.

Start Local: Embracing the Memphis and Mid-South Community

The Memphis and Mid-South community provide robust support for families preparing for school. Take advantage of local events, giveaways, and community-driven programs:

•      Back-to-School Bash (July 26, 2025): Enjoy games, food, and free school supply packs at Dalstrom Park in Memphis. Kids must attend to receive supplies.

•      YMCA Backpack Drive (July 10–28): Donate or receive backpacks and supplies at YMCA locations throughout Memphis, Cordova, Olive Branch, and beyond. Supplies gathered help students across the Mid-South.

•      United Way's Stuff the Bus School Supply Drive (Throughout July): Donate or pick up school essentials at collection sites, culminating in a major drop-off day on August 1 at the Memphis Sports and Events Center. This program delivers directly to local students and teachers.

•      Memphis Back to School Craft and Vendor Market (August 2–3, 2025): Find deals on supplies, meet local vendors, and enjoy festivities at Oak Court Mall.

Many Memphis-area events focus on making back-to-school fun, family-friendly, and affordable, often providing supplies to families who need a little extra help. Attending these events can help stretch your budget while connecting with your community.

National Back-to-School Trends for 2025

Across the nation, families are navigating higher prices, economic uncertainty, and evolving shopping habits:

•      National estimates indicate overall spending remains steady, with an average of about $570 per K-12 student in 2025. Parents are focused on buying just the essentials and spreading out purchases over time to stay on budget.

•      Mass merchandisers and online retailers remain top choices for back-to-school shopping, with 83% of parents heading to big-box stores and over two-thirds turning to online options for convenience and deals.

•      Early shopping is trending up, with many families starting before August to lock in deals and avoid price hikes.

Savvy shoppers nationwide—just like in the Mid-South—are using coupons, loyalty programs, price-comparison tools, and community resources to maximize their dollars.

Wise Shopping Habits to Stay on Track (Wherever You Live)

Whether shopping in the Memphis area or online nationally, these strategies will help you manage back-to-school costs:

1. Take Inventory and Prioritize

•      Review last year's supplies before you buy more, especially with younger children who may have leftovers in backpacks or lockers.

•      Make a list and separate must-haves from wish-list items.

2. Set (and Stick to) a Budget

•      List categories: supplies, clothes, tech, fees, and lunch expenses.

•      Use budgeting apps, spreadsheets, or even envelope systems to control spending.

3. Shop Strategically

•      Combine Memphis-area events and national retailer sales to stretch every dollar.

•      Shop during sales tax holidays (check state schedules) and take advantage of bulk-buying co-ops with friends or neighbors.

•      Don't overlook thrift stores or online marketplaces for gently used supplies and clothes.

4. Use Community Resources

•      Access free or discounted supplies through local drives (like United Way, YMCA, or church events).

•      Many Memphis events include food, entertainment, and helpful info for parents, making them ideal for both savings and support.

5. Track and Review

•      Save receipts, check your spending as you go, and compare it to your plan.

•      Involve older kids in the process for a valuable lesson in budgeting and prioritization.

Looking Ahead—The Power of Community and Planning Remember, preparing for back-to-school is easier when you tap into both national trends and local Mid-South community resources. Combining smart shopping habits, free or low-cost regional events, and a focus on budgeting will help your family start the school year strong, without overspending.

Preparing for back-to-school is easier when you tap into both national trends and local Mid-South community resources. Combining smart shopping habits, free or low-cost regional events, and a focus on budgeting will help your family start the school year strong, without overspending.

Disclaimer:

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or legal advice. The information provided is based on publicly available data and is believed to be accurate as of the date of publication. Readers should conduct their research and consult with a qualified professional before making any purchasing or investment decisions. The author and publisher are not responsible for any losses or damages arising from the use of this information. Although this article highlights the impact on Memphis and the Mid-South region, similar effects could be seen in other parts of the country as well. The views shared about Memphis are based on general observations and not supported by specific research data. Please note that this is general information and should not be used to evaluate your particular situation.

Sources

• Memphis Back To School Craft and Vendor Market: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/memphis-back-to-school-craft-and-vendor-market-tickets-1345042130219
• YMCA Backpack Drive - YMCA OF MEMPHIS & THE MID-SOUTH: https://www.ymcamemphis.org/main/ymca-backpack-drive/
• Back To School Bash - Local Memphis: https://www.localmemphis.com/events-calendar/?_evDiscoveryPath=%2Fevent%2F3137335-back-to-school-bash
• Stuff the Bus School Supply Drive | United Way of the Mid South: https://uwmidsouth.org/event/stuff-the-bus-2025/
• Back-to-school | NRF - National Retail Federation: https://nrf.com/research-insights/holiday-data-and-trends/back-to-school
• Walmart Helps Students Get First-Day Fresh With School Supplies Priced Lower Than Last Year: https://corporate.walmart.com/news/2025/07/15/walmart-helps-students-get-first-day-fresh-with-school-supplies-priced-lower-than-last-year
• 2025 Back-to-School Shopping: Ten Need-to-Know Trends: https://www.outfront.com/blog/back-to-school-shopping-ten-need-to-know-trends
• Back-to-School Spending Expected to Stay Flat for 2025: https://www.cpapracticeadvisor.com/2025/07/14/back-to-school-spending-expected-to-stay-flat-for-2025/164863/
• Back-to-School Block Party | Memphis Public Libraries: https://memphis.librarycalendar.com/event/back-school-block-party-24487
• Back-to-School Block Party | MemphisTravel.com: https://www.memphistravel.com/events/festivals/back-school-block-party

Getting ready for the school year is a big job, but with smart planning and a little community help, you’ll be set for an A+ start—right here in the Mid-South and wherever school takes you this fall.

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