Back-to-school shopping tricks for students

Key points

• 1

  Ask specific questions in Google Search: When shopping for items like dorm supplies, use detailed queries in Google Search to get tailored recommendations. For example, ask for 'cozy sweaters that feel like a hoodie but look like I tried for less than $80' to find products matching your budget and style. This approach helps you avoid generic results and get practical advice for specific needs, like dorm kettles for matcha. Google’s AI Mode in Search understands your context, so you’ll get relevant product suggestions without having to filter through irrelevant results yourself.

• 2

  Connect apps for personalized shopping: Link your Google apps (like Gmail, Calendar, and Photos) to Google’s Personal Intelligence feature to get shopping recommendations that match your dorm room setup. If you’ve connected Gmail, Google will use your campus housing emails to suggest mattress sizes and style preferences when you search for duvet covers. This saves time by eliminating the need to manually check your room size or style preferences, making it easier to find products that fit your unique situation without extra effort.

• 3

  Use Google Lens for in-store discovery: Snap photos of items in physical stores using Google Lens to identify products, find similar items online, or check colors. For instance, if you see a vintage chair at a dorm store, take a picture to see if Google can suggest matching items or similar styles. This tool helps you explore unique items without leaving your current location, which is especially useful when shopping for dorm decor that might not be available online.

• 4

  Check price history and track discounts: Before buying essentials like coffee makers or vacuums, tap a product listing to compare prices across stores and use the three-dot menu to see a three-month price history. This shows if the current price is high, low, or typical, helping you avoid overpaying. If you want to wait for a discount, click 'Track price' to get alerts when the price drops, ensuring you get the best deal without missing out on savings.

• 5

  Find nearby in-stock items: To pick up items like storage bins or desk organizers after moving into your dorm, type your search with 'near me' or use the 'Nearby' filter to see what’s available locally. This avoids the hassle of shipping or waiting for items to arrive, letting you grab essentials quickly from stores close to your dorm. The 'nearby' label on product listings also helps you identify items that are physically available in your area, which is especially useful for students who need items right away.

• 6

  Try virtual items before purchasing: Use Google’s virtual try-on feature to experiment with fashion trends without buying first. Click an item in Search, then tap 'Try it on' and select or upload a photo to see how the style looks on you. This helps you avoid buying clothes that don’t fit your style or body, saving time and money while letting you experiment with trends without the risk of returns.