Avoid Spending More Than You Have on School Rentry Shopping, Find The Hot Tips

College students spend more than others on back-to-school electronics, of course, given the requirements of most universities these days. But spending patterns tend to shift year to year, Rist said, because computers and cell phones are not upgraded or replaced on an annual basis. Consumers will pump up sales when a new product comes on the market, like last year's iPhone, which contributed to college students spending an average of $258 on electronics.
Here are six tips for finding good deals on electronics:

*
Shop sales. This is a hot promotional season for electronics sellers and more steamy this year given the tight budgets of many consumers.
*
Comparison shop. Get online and compare which stores are offering what bells and whistles on certain models. Do the same with cell phones and service providers.
*
Use the Internet. Craigslist and eBay are among the sites to search for used, reconditioned and even new electronics. Many electronics retailers offer special deals only online. And there's no shortage of shopping sites that can point you directly to the brand and price range you want.
*
Don't overbuy. Know what you need and stick to it. Other programs and accessories can be added later.
*
Haggle. Don't be afraid to ask sales associates for a deal. Many are authorized to give discounts on the floor.
*
Time the purchase. Many retailers are more willing to give special deals at the end of the month, when sales may be coming up short, than they are at the top of the month when there's still hope of making sales targets.