Back-to-School Shopping Tips for North Carolina Consumers

By shopping around and buying from stores you trust, you can make your dollar go further

Have you waited until the last minute for back-to-school shopping? Don’t worry, you can still shop smart and maximize savings across North Carolina. Whether you’re stocking up on tech devices, uniforms or classroom supplies, these strategies will help you avoid scams and hidden fees.

"Every dollar counts for families preparing for a new school year," said North Carolina Attorney General Josh Stein. "Comparing prices, understanding return policies and taking advantage of our state’s tax‑free weekend can save parents and teachers hundreds of dollars."

Here are updated tips for North Carolinians:

• Have your shopping list ready in advance. Download your district’s official supply list from its website. Double‑check required quantities, prohibited items (some schools ban wheeled backpacks) and specific brands or models (advanced math may require a TI‑84 calculator).
• Take advantage of North Carolina’s Sales Tax Holiday. Each year the first weekend in August is tax‑free for clothing, school supplies (up to $100 per item) and computers (up to $3,500). Confirm exact dates and eligible items on the NC Department of Revenue website.
• Shop around and price match. Use barcode‑scanning apps or browser extensions to compare in‑store and online prices. Many major retailers will match a lower price from a competitor, even after purchase—if you ask within their window.
• Buy from trusted retailers that give back. Some stores partner with PTA groups or local nonprofits like BackPack Beginnings to donate a portion of proceeds to area schools. Before you buy, check with your school or local PTO.
• Shop safely online. Stick to established sites and look for “https” and lock icons. Avoid public Wi‑Fi when entering payment details. Consider using a virtual credit card number or PayPal for added fraud protection.
• Consider paying by credit card. Credit cards offer built‑in dispute and chargeback rights if orders never arrive or retailers go out of business. Keep records of order confirmations and shipment tracking.
• Learn refund and return policies. Stores are not required by law to accept returns, so ask before you buy. Note restocking fees or deadlines, and decide if you prefer cash refunds, store credit or exchanges.
• Watch rental terms for high‑value items. Check contracts for musical instruments, laptops and uniforms. Compare total cost under rent‑to‑own arrangements with outright purchase prices to avoid overpaying.
• Consider buying used. Local consignment shops, Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace often list gently used backpacks, uniforms and textbooks at steep discounts. Inspect items in person and meet in a public place.
• Check device data‑plan costs. Confirm with your school if mobile devices will need cellular service. Avoid surprise overage charges by reviewing your child’s plan or using Wi‑Fi only where available.
• Verify safety and compliance labels. Look for non‑toxic certification (ASTM D‑4236) on art supplies and ensure sports gear meets applicable safety standards. Expired or unapproved products may pose health risks.
• Use local coupon and rebate programs. Many North Carolina utilities and retailers offer rebates on energy‑efficient electronics and school uniforms. Search the NC Clean Energy Technology Center and your city’s website for current offers.
• Donate unused supplies. After shopping, consider giving unopened extras to local shelters, shelters or school supply drives, South Carolina’s equivalent program, BackPack Beginnings, maintains drop‑off sites statewide.