RALEIGH, N.C. — It’s hard to believe summer vacation is already coming to and end for thousands of students across the state.

And as they get ready to head back to class, many families are first heading to the store for their back to school shopping.

According to the National Retail Federation, consumers spent $83.6 billion on school supplies last year with the number only expected to increase this year. So how can we make the most out of our spending this year?

Spectrum News anchor Caroline Blair sat down with the President and CEO of the Better Business Bureau of Eastern North Carolina, Mallory Wojciechowski, for a look at ways to save time and money on our back to school shopping. 

Before we do anything, Wojciechowski says we should make a shopping list and pick up good discount items as we see them. But even before that, she suggests trying to shop at home first.  You’ll be surprised at some of the items you already own.

Next she says to create a budget, and do some research online to find the best price. She says to make sure and use coupons and rebates when available. It can also work to buy less expensive items when shopping, but only when you know they will last. 

Wojciechowski says some stores now offer education discounts, especially for big ticket items like computers. Shes says when appropriate, buy in bulk for items used regularly throughout the year like hand sanitizer.

And finally, Wojciechowski says it’s important to always check stores return and exchange policies.