3 ways to shop for back to school on Google

Back to school season is here, and shoppers are getting ready to hit the books stores. Thanks to our Shopping Graph, you have access to over 45 billion product listings worldwide in one convenient place. From budget-friendly school supplies to splurge-worthy apparel trends, you can find everything you need to ace the new school year.

While some things about going back to school never change — like wanting to look your best on day one or nail school photos — AI is changing how people shop. Some shoppers like using AI because it’s fun and entertaining, others are embracing new technology to help them find what they want at the lowest price. No matter your motivations, here are a few ways AI is making back to school shopping and saving as easy as A-B-C.

1. Picture your new look with virtual try-on

Need a wardrobe refresh for a new school season? Searches for “baggy tees” have surged in the past month, making them one of the most sought-after school fashion items. Thanks to our virtual try-on feature, you can instantly try out a variety of tops to match your personal style, right on your screen. Powered by generative AI, Google’s virtual try-on lets you see how clothes look on a diverse set of models so you can get a realistic feel for how a top drapes and folds before you buy. To get started, U.S. shoppers can tap products with the “Try On” icon on Search and select the model that resonates most.

2. Shop what you see

Over half of Gen Z shoppers believe that finding something that suits their personal style is the most important factor when shopping for back to school items ¹ . And one of the best ways to express your personal style is through your dorm room. Let’s say you spot a sofa but it’s not quite the color you want for that new college apartment. Luckily, Lens makes it easy to shop the world around you — including sofas that catch your eye. Simply tap the Lens icon in the Search bar and snap a photo of the sofa you love. You’ll instantly see options that better match your vision.

There’s also Circle to Search on select Android devices (like the latest Pixel and Samsung phones) which lets you search for anything you see without switching apps. Simply circle, highlight or tap what you like — maybe it's the fanny pack of your dreams — to get more info, including the price and where to buy. Not using an Android device? Just screenshot and search with Lens.

3. Stick to your budget and score deals

Back to school shopping can be fun, but also expensive. Want to be sure you're getting the best price? Start your search on Google. A search for "shop back to school deals" now shows you sales and discounts from different stores in one convenient spot. Parents - 70% of whom prioritize value above all else when back-to-school shopping - can snag those must-have items at a fraction of the price, across a range of categories like school supplies, backpacks, boys and girls apparel, dorm organization and laptops ² . There’s something for everyone’s needs.

While students and their parents may differ in what they value most in back to school shopping, they have one thing in common: Both groups say they’re more likely to “save” than “splurge” this season ³ . Whatever you’re looking for, Google can help you find it at the best price. Easily view price insights and historical averages for products over the past 90 days to decide if a deal is truly good and if now is the right time to buy. With a simple click, you can also compare prices across retailers, read product reviews, check availability and find delivery information. You can also turn on price alerts so you know when it’s the perfect time to snag those deals. U.S. shoppers can just click the bell icon next to the product they’re interested in and they’ll be notified when it goes on sale anywhere online.

Whether you're a parent seeking the best value for your family, a student looking to splurge on something trendy or simply someone hoping to save on essentials, Google's shopping tools and wide selection of deals help everyone find exactly what they need at a price that fits their budget.