Experts with the National Retail Federation in Washington and other groups said the tricks to back-to-school shopping include pre-shopping online.

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Matthew Shay, the federation's chief executive officer, said parents and children should "scour the Internet" for the best deals before visiting stores, USA Today reported Monday.

Wendy Liebmann, chief executive officer of consulting firm WSL Strategic Retail, said another tip for parents is to put off back-to-school shopping until late in the season to get the best deals. Marshal Cohen, chief industry analyst at research specialist NPD Group, said waiting until later also benefits kids who can learn about the latest fashions from classmates before doing their shopping.

Rebecca Lieb, a digital marketing consultant, said parents would do well to bring their smartphones on shopping trips as "a secret comparison-shopping weapon."

She said apps are available to scan bar codes and give product information such as reviews and competitors' prices.

Liebmann said parents can also save money by buying items such as socks and T-shirts at dollar stores and buying in bulk at wholesale clubs.