Americans are expected to spend a total of $39 billion on back-to-school shopping this year, making it the second-highest spending year on record.

According to the National Retail Federation, consumers are becoming more price-conscious due to higher prices and economic slowdown.

However, back-to-school shopping is considered essential spending, and many families are finding ways to cut costs by seeking deals, shopping at secondhand stores, and being resourceful.

The spending habits of Americans during this time could be a critical indicator of the health of the consumer-powered economy.