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CALGARY — The Better Business Bureau is urging Alberta families to plan ahead, compare prices and be cautious when shopping online as students prepare to return to the classroom.
The Better Business Bureau serving Alberta and East Kootenay says creating a shopping list before heading to stores can help families stay focused and avoid impulse purchases, while shopping early can provide a better selection and help avoid crowds.
“Back to school is an exciting time for families,” BBB president and CEO Mary O’Sullivan-Andersen said. “Follow these tried and true tips while enjoying some quality time with your children before they head back to the classroom.”
The organization recommends comparing prices between retailers and looking for coupons, cash-back offers and rebates before making purchases. Families should also check return policies, particularly when buying clothing and electronics.
For larger purchases such as laptops, tablets and computer accessories, the BBB recommends doing additional research before spending.
Parents should check with their child’s school for any technical requirements before buying electronics and compare brands, warranties, reviews and prices between retailers.
The BBB says students and families should also ask retailers about student discounts, which may require a student identification card or eligible email address.
Families looking to stretch their back-to-school budgets can consider combining store sales with manufacturer rebates or coupons and using retailer loyalty programs.
Buying some supplies in bulk can also reduce costs. The BBB suggests parents consider teaming up with other families when purchasing commonly requested classroom supplies such as tissues, wipes, paper towels and hand sanitizer.
Families struggling with the cost of school supplies can also check with schools, community centres and non-profit organizations for local school supply drives.
The BBB is also cautioning families to pay particular attention when shopping online.
It says shoppers should be wary of advertisements appearing based on their search history because fraudulent ads can direct consumers to websites impersonating legitimate retailers.
Instead of following an advertisement, shoppers are encouraged to navigate directly to a retailer’s website, check its contact information and privacy policy and make sure the site is secure.
The BBB recommends looking for HTTPS in the website address and using payment methods offering buyer protection, such as credit cards.
O’Sullivan-Andersen says some planning and research can help families get better value while reducing the potential risks associated with back-to-school shopping.
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