How AAA Members can save on back-to-school
This guide dives into the best strategies for utilizing AAA discounts on everything from school supplies to clothing. Learn how to plan effectively, maximize savings from your favorite retailers and ensure your student is fully prepared for a successful school year all while keeping your family's budget in check.
Check out our full page of back-to-school savings and get the most out of your AAA Membership.
Savings Are In SessionParents know the drill. August arrives, and suddenly you're staring down a mountain of back-to-school shopping lists that seem to grow longer each year. Between new clothes, electronics, supplies and everything else your student needs, the costs can quickly spiral out of control. The National Retail Federation estimates families with children in elementary through high school will spend an average of $875 per family on back-to-school shopping.
But here's some good news: your AAA Membership isn't just for roadside assistance and travel planning. It's your secret weapon for conquering back-to-school shopping without breaking the bank. From clothing and shoes to laptops and supplies, AAA offers exclusive discounts and cash-back opportunities that can significantly reduce your expenses.
Even more savings…
AAA goes beyond roadside assistance. Sign up today for savings on every day purchases throughout the year to get the most out of your membership.
Before diving into those tempting deals, successful back-to-school shopping starts with a solid budget. This step might not be the most exciting part of the process, but it's what separates savvy shoppers from those who find themselves overspending.
What is loud budgeting?
Learn MoreStart by creating a comprehensive list of everything your student needs. Break it down into categories: clothing, shoes, backpacks, school supplies and electronics. Set a realistic spending limit for each category based on your family's financial situation. This approach helps you avoid impulse purchases and keeps you focused on necessities.
Consider involving your student in the budgeting process, especially if they're older. Teaching them about smart spending habits now will serve them well throughout their lives. Plus, they might be more willing to accept "no" on certain items when they understand the financial constraints.
The AAA Dollars Online Mall represents one of the most powerful tools in your money-saving arsenal. This exclusive member benefit provides access to hundreds of retailers offering special discounts and cash-back opportunities specifically for AAA members.
The beauty of the Online Mall lies in its dual savings structure. First, you receive exclusive member discounts at participating retailers. Then, you can earn cash back on your purchases, which accumulates in your AAA Dollars account.
Many major retailers participate in the Online Mall program, including stores you probably shop at regularly, such as Target, Walmart and Khol’s. Before making any back-to-school purchase, check whether the retailer participates in the program. You might be surprised at how many of your regular shopping destinations offer additional savings through this member benefit.
Getting your student ready with a fresh wardrobe doesn't have to drain your savings account. AAA members enjoy exclusive discounts at major online retailers that carry everything from basic school clothes to trendy pieces your teen will actually want to wear.
Major retailers like Walmart, Target and Kohl's offer AAA member discounts that can add up to substantial savings, especially when you're shopping for multiple children. These stores provide one-stop shopping convenience with competitive prices on both basics and brand-name items.
Shoes often represent one of the biggest back-to-school expenses, particularly for growing children who might need multiple pairs for different activities. AAA partnerships with major footwear brands can help ease this financial burden.
Nike, Adidas and Converse offer AAA Member savings on their popular styles when you shop online. Whether your student needs athletic shoes for PE class, casual sneakers for everyday wear or dressier options for special school events, these brand partnerships provide access to quality footwear at reduced prices.
Don't overlook Dunham's Sports, a regional sporting goods retailer which offers AAA Member discounts on regularly priced merchandise. These stores often carry exclusive styles and colorways that appeal to style-conscious students while still providing the durability needed for daily school wear.
A quality backpack is an investment that needs to last the entire school year and beyond. JanSport, known for their lifetime warranty and durable construction, offers AAA Member savings on their extensive backpack collection when you shop online.
When choosing a backpack, consider your student's specific needs. High school students carrying laptops need different features than elementary students with lighter loads. Look for padded straps, multiple compartments and reinforced stitching that can handle daily wear and tear.
Modern education increasingly relies on technology, making electronics a necessary part of back-to-school shopping rather than a luxury. AAA partnerships with major tech companies can help you secure the devices your student needs without paying full retail prices.
HP, Samsung and Dell all offer AAA member discounts on laptops, tablets and accessories. These brands represent different price points and features, allowing you to find the right balance between functionality and budget. Whether your student needs a basic laptop for research and typing or a more powerful machine for advanced coursework, these partnerships provide options.
Consider your student's grade level and course requirements when making technology purchases. An elementary student might benefit more from a tablet for educational apps and light computing, while a high school student probably needs a full laptop for more demanding academic work.
Timing your back-to-school shopping can significantly impact your total savings. While it's tempting to get everything at once, strategic shopping throughout the season often yields better deals.
Early August typically offers the best selection but not necessarily the best prices. Late August and early September often feature deeper discounts as retailers clear inventory, but popular sizes and styles may be limited. Consider buying basics early and waiting for clearance prices on items that aren't immediately needed.
Did you know? AAA Members can use the AAA Discounts extension never to miss a deal while shopping online. Receive AAA savings alerts on over 1,000 partner sites or when searching their products, plus earn cash back. Click the alert to activate the AAA savings. Works with Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Safari and iOS mobile devices!
Add The ExtensionCombine AAA discounts with seasonal sales and manufacturer coupons for maximum savings. Many retailers stack discounts, allowing you to use multiple savings methods on a single purchase. Always read the fine print to ensure discounts can be combined before making major purchases.
Your AAA membership provides year-round value that extends far beyond emergency roadside service.
The back-to-school season offers an excellent opportunity to explore these additional benefits and see real savings on necessary purchases.
Take time to browse the complete list of AAA discounts and partnerships available in your area. Many members don't realize the full scope of savings opportunities available through their membership. From restaurants and entertainment to home services and retail, AAA partnerships can help reduce expenses throughout the year
With careful planning and smart use of your AAA member benefits, back-to-school shopping becomes less stressful and more affordable. Your membership provides the tools needed to keep your family's education expenses under control while ensuring your student has everything needed for academic success.
Exclusive savings for AAA Members
Be ready for the school season with unbeatable discounts on supplies, gear and more. AAA Members enjoy exclusive deals to make back-to-school shopping stress-free and affordable.