During back-to-school shopping season, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed. From commercials, to coupons, to mailers, there’s an overload of information about where the deals are for all the stuff your kids need this school year.

Even if you are a shopaholic, navigating the mall with your children in tow can be tiring.

“We’re bombarded with too much information to truly process when we’re out shopping, with so many ads, brands and ongoing sales competing for our attention,” says Mort Aaronson, CEO of PlaceWise Media, which provides integrated marketing services to more than 300 shopping malls in 75 markets across North America. “Shopping is easier and more fun when we can eliminate the clutter, to hone-in on just what we want, right where we are.”

Take steps to simplify the experience and avoid those headaches that occur when you realize you’ve forgotten those things your kids need most.

Figure out exactly what you need and want before leaving home. A checklist can help you map out a game plan, stick to a budget and stay organized.

Conduct a little fashion show with the kids at home before heading to the stores, to see what still fits and is in good condition and what’s too small and worn out for the new school year.

Most of us don’t have the means to hire a personal shopper, but new technology can replicate the benefits of this luxury. Zero in on just what you want with an online and mobile “shopping companion” that can deliver personalized, timely and relevant product information and deals based on your interests and location.

When selecting a shopping companion, look for one that safely uses a combination of your location and stated preferences, to determine the most relevant deals, stores and products nearby. From keeping up with trends, to getting directions to stores, a free online and mobile app, such as Shoptopia, can ease the shopping experience from the planning stages to the trip to the mall. Above all, when selecting a shopping companion, don’t just settle for one from a single store or brand — find one that captures your entire shopping universe in a single app. More information can be found at www.shoptopia.com/news.

Remember, you’re not the one who is going to be wearing all those new clothes. And let’s be honest, kids can be picky. So even if that pink flowered skirt seems like a great deal, if your daughter refuses to wear it, you have thrown your time and money down the drain.

Being a good listener and respecting your child’s preferences can help you avoid closet duds. By picking out things together, you can ensure everything is in line with your budget and your child’s taste. 

Don’t shop ‘til you drop. By preparing ahead and using new tools, you can make shopping more pleasant and more effective — from identifying the hot new trends, to finding the stores that carry them and getting the best deals.                  

 — Statepoint