Expect to Spend More on Back-to-School Gadgets

Expect to pay more for your kids' back-to-school gadgets. The National Retail Federation reported that electronic spending, as well as for other school necessities, would rise from last year likely because of schools insisting on more school supplies and an increased demand for electronics.

Overall, parents are expected to shell out 7 percent more, a total of  $212.35 for electronics, but that number rises as children head to college, where they are likely to spend 20 percent more, up to $243.79,  according to the NRF. While not breaking the bank, that's about $13 and $43 respectively more than last year. Most families are expected to pay around $669 for their children's back-to-school shopping, about a 5 percent rise. Families will be paying $916, or 10 percent more this year, for their college-age children.

Because many stores are trying to entice buyers with discounts and other incentives, it's best to have a game plan when back-to-school shopping, according to the Associated Press. "It’s an important time to keep a handle on your finances because in the frenzy to get organized it’s easy to make bad purchase decisions," Jack Gillis, director of public affairs for the Consumer Federation of America, told the Associated Press.

Mostly parents need to stick to a budget, comparison shop and sometimes wait for a better deal. Other ideas also include on shopping at discounters such as Walmart, Amazon or so-called "dollar stores," MarketWatch reported. Big-box stores, such as Staples and Best Buy for electronics purchases, are also OK because they have a price-match guarantee which will match any deal found online. 

Many elementary and middle school students are already using computer tablets in class, so the demand at home is high, according to reports. ConsumerReports suggests heading to Walmart for a a few options under $100, including the $79 Nextbook 8 and $99 RCA tablet with keyboard.

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