How to save on back-to-school shopping in Montreal

Between clothes that no longer fit, shoes worn out from a year of school, and the supply list, back-to-school puts a real dent in the family budget. Here's how to limit the damage.

Take inventory before shopping

Before buying anything, check what can still be used: last year's sweaters that still fit, a backpack in good shape, half-used pencils and notebooks. This avoids duplicate purchases.

Prioritize the items that actually cost the most

Shoes and name-brand clothing are often the most expensive items on a back-to-school list. That's where shopping liquidation makes the biggest difference: clothing and shoes regularly sell at 50-75% below regular price, with arrivals that often include recognized brands.

Buy ahead for growth, but not too far ahead

For fast-growing kids, it can be worth buying a size up — but avoid stocking up too far in advance: liquidation stock changes constantly, so it's better to come back in a few weeks than to buy everything at once hoping to "stock up".

Don't forget supplies and accessories

Lunch boxes, pencil cases, office supplies — these small purchases add up fast. Some seasonal arrivals include this type of item too, often announced in August on our social media.

Plan several visits rather than just one

Since stock turns over fast, one visit doesn't guarantee you'll find everything. Planning 2-3 trips over a few weeks before school starts increases your chances of finding exactly what you need, at a good price.