'Hack To School' tips and tricks on how to shop S.M.A.R.T

"Good Morning America" contributor Lori Bergamotto shares back-to-school hacks.

September 2, 2022, 7:12 AM

Going back to school doesn't just mean putting on an outfit and walking out the door -- there's a lot that goes into it.

There's shopping for school supplies and clothes, organizing your new schedule, finishing up summer reading, preparing lunches, planning after-school activities and much more.

Since the school year is already underway (or about to be!) across the country, we're "GMA" lifestyle contributor Lori Bergamotto is helping you shop for all of the items you need and sharing hacks that will make your back-to-school transition a little smoother.

Check them out below!

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How to shop S.M.A.R.T.:

S - Shop on certain days

Bergamotto suggests Wednesdays are the best days for inventory and sales.

M - Map out markdowns

"Mark your calendars for your favorite store markdowns," Bergamotto added. For example, Old Navy will be offering up to 50% off select kids and baby items starting September 10.

A - Aggregate prices to find the best deals

"There are lots of apps that help you to find the best deals, one of my favorites, and easiest (and free) is Google Shopping -- it aggregates prices for you," Bergamotto said.

R - Rethink shopping

Kidpik

KIDPIK Clothing Subscription Box

KIDPIK is a subscription box service for kids of all ages – featuring its in-house designed clothing brand.

    • Valid: 09/02/2022 to 09/06/2022
    Stitch Fix Kids

    Stitch Fix Kids

    A Kids Fix is filled with 10 curated pieces to try on from the comfort of home, perfect for busy families like yours that don’t have time to take a trip to the mall. Shipping & returns are always free, and there’s no subscription required. 

        T- Take advantage of off-season deals

        "Specifically in the off-season, take advantage of deals," Bergamotto said. "Don’t be afraid to buy clothing that you know your kids will need later on and up in a few sizes."

        More products to shop for "hack-to-school":

        Best overall bento box:

        "If you want to get your kids excited for lunch, get them a bento box! The easy compartments keep food fresh, portion out food properly, and let's face it, make lunch a little bit more fun," Bergamotto said.

        Walmart

        Bentgo Leak-Proof 5-Compartment Bento-Style Lunch Box

        • $19.98
        • Walmart

        Best capacity bento box:

        PBK

        No Kid Hungry All-in-One Bento Box

        • $15 to $22.50
        • Pottery Barn Kids

        Best vaule bento box:

        Bed Bath & Beyond

        Progressive Snaplock 4-Cup Bento-To-Go Container in Grey

        • $8.99
        • Bed Bath & Beyond

        Best bottle for elementary school students:

        "Snacks and fruits are not the only lunchbox items that leak -- it’s also those pesky water bottles! There’s nothing worse than opening up your kids backpack to find their homework completely soaked," Bergamotto said.

        Walmart

        Thermos Kids Stainless Steel Vacuum Insulated bottle

        • $13.48
        • Walmart

        Best bottle for middle and high school students:

        Yeti

        RAMBLER 18 OZ WATER BOTTLE

        • $30
        • Yeti

        Best on-the-go car organizer:

        "Half the battle in the morning is just getting the kids in the car. With this car-seat snack organizer, once they are in, put them to work."

        Bed Bath & Beyond

        Diono stow 'n Go X-Large Backseat Car Organizer in Grey

        • $19.99
        • Bed Bath & Beyond

        Bergamotto suggests playing a song every morning to challenge your kids to complete their morning tasks.

        Best Buy

        Nest Mini (2nd Generation) with Google Assistant - Chalk

        • $29.99
        • Best Buy

        Take the guesswork out of getting dressed by arranging a week's worth of outfits in a hanging organizer, Bergamotto says.

        Amazon

        Household Essentials 3312-1 Cotton Canvas Hanging Closet Sweater Organizer | 6-Shelf

        • $32.52
        • Amazon

        Use a bathroom caddy and a printed checklist to help create a morning bathroom routine for your kids, Bergamotto says.

        Bed Bath & Beyond

        mDesign Plastic Bathroom Storage Organizer Caddy Tote, Small

        • $16.49
        • Bed Bath & Beyond

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