COUPON QUEEN: Five things to thrift for the school year

Back-to-school shopping doesn't have to mean back-to-broke. Whether your child is entering kindergarten or heading off to college, one of the best ways to stretch your dollar this season is by shopping secondhand. Thrift stores are full of school-year must-haves at a fraction of the price of retail. Best of all, the items are brand-new or gently used. Here are five things to thrift for the upcoming school year: Dorm and apartment essentials Whether you've got a college student setting up a dorm or venturing to their first apartment, don't overlook the thrift store for furnishings. You'll find lamps, mini fridges, storage cubes, desks, kitchen items, wall décor and so much more. These are all great items to score at budget-friendly prices. When dropping your kids off at school or settling them into their apartment, make time to check out the local thrift stores. College-town shops are often packed with great finds, thanks to the constant turnover of students moving in and out. If you wait until a sale day, you may be able to make these larger size items at an even bigger discount. For instance, the Volunteers of America thrift store offers 50 percent off storewide on the last Tuesday of the month. This is a great time to buy larger, higher-priced items. Brand-new basics Did you know that many thrift stores carry new, unopened socks, underwear and bras? These are often overstocked items from retailers, and are sealed, sanitary and cheaper than retail prices. It's a great way to stock up. I usually find these toward the front of the store, but be sure to look around or ask if there are any in stock. School and office supplies Thrift stores are gold mines for binders, clipboards, planners and even calculators. I've also seen backpacks, pencil holders and desk organizers. These are perfect for students and teachers, but also parents working from home. Organization doesn't have to be expensive. Clothing for every occasion School uniforms, spirit wear, sports pants, hoodies and everyday outfits are easy thrift finds. Many are brand-name, barely worn, and a fraction of their original price. Keep your eyes peeled for dress clothes, too! Clothes like a sparkly dress or button-up shirt, your teen will need for homecoming, recitals or school presentations. Since many aren't looking for homecoming outfits just yet, you may find the best selection now. Shoes, shoes and more shoes Kids outgrow shoes fast, so why pay full price? Thrift stores often carry a wide selection, from everyday sneakers and uniform shoes to sports cleats and even formal footwear. If your child needs to leave a pair of gym shoes at school, this is a great place to find a backup pair for cheap. Thrifting is a budget-friendly, sustainable way to prepare for the school year. You'll save money, reduce waste and might even have fun treasure-hunting along the way. This week's deal Here are some deals to grab this week at Dollar GeneralMug, Brisk, Crush, Starry or Schweppes 2-liter soda: 5/$5 Rachel Krych is passionate about helping others spend less and save more. In addition to her weekly column, she has a blog, Couponing With Rachel, which earns her compensation from Google for ads it places there, and from entertainment marketers whose promotional codes she touts. She doesn't write about entertainment in her column. Email her at rachelkrych@gmail.com.