This Back-To-School Shopping Trap Bleeds Students Dry Before Classes Even Start | Networth & Chill

Should saving money on back-to-school shopping actually be this complicated? This week, Vivian breaks down exactly how to shop smarter this fall, and why the "back-to-school haul" mentality might be quietly draining your bank account. In this episode, Vivian covers: 1. Why tech is the biggest back-to-school money trap, how trade-in programs and refurbished gadgets can save you hundreds, and the student discounts most people forget even exist. 2. The real cost of college essentials, why paying full price for textbooks is basically a scam, the "wait until you get there" rule for dorm shopping, and how 529 accounts and ESAs can make thousands of dollars in expenses tax-free. 3. What's actually changing with federal student loans in 2026, why timing your FAFSA and your borrowing matters more than people think, and the parent-tested hacks, from bulk-buying supplies to secondhand clothes, that cut costs without cutting corners. Follow the podcast on Instagram   / networthandchillpod   and TikTok   / networthandchill   Got a financial question you want answered in a future episode? Email us at podcast@yourrichbff.com About Me Your favorite Personal Finance & Investing Creator. Let’s talk about money, career, & getting rich. Learn more about my background in Finance on www.YourRichBFF.com and follow me for more smart money tips.   / your.richbff     / yourrichbff     / yourrichbff     / networthandchillpod   #money #finance #financemotivation #stockmarket #investing #invest #business #businessgrowth #entrepreneur #entrepreneurship #richmindset #moneymindset #financetips #businesspodcast #financepodcast #school #backtoschool #education #college 00:00 Intro 01:50 Saving on Tech 04:58 Textbook Hacks 07:17 Financial Aid & Loans 09:28 Community College Route 10:10 School Supplies & Clothes 14:22 Student Discounts & Life Hack 15:22 Q&A: Saving Strategies 17:29 Q&A: Is College Worth It? 20:27 Q&A: Worthless Expenses 22:24 Q&A: Young Investor 24:16 Q&A: Going Back to School 25:44 Q&A: Hidden Discounts 26:36 Q&A: Elite College Tuition 28:11 Q&A: Grad School After Layoff 30:00 Q&A: Private vs Public School 32:38 Q&A: Student Loan Strategy