As the summer days start winding down, it’s time to prepare for the back-to-school season. However, for many parents, this time of year can be stressful with the thought of all the expenses that come with it. From school supplies and uniforms to sports equipment and extracurricular activities, the cost of getting your child ready for school can quickly add up.
But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with some budget-friendly back-to-school tips to help you make the most of your money without compromising on quality or your child’s needs. Here’s how you can prepare for the school year without breaking the bank.
1. Create a Back-to-School Budget
The first step in any savings strategy is to set a clear budget. Write down everything you need to buy and estimate the costs. This will help you identify areas where you can cut back, prioritise the essentials, and avoid impulse spending.
- Back-to-school essentials: School uniforms, shoes, backpacks, stationery, etc.
- Extras: Extracurricular fees, lunch boxes, tech gadgets.
Having a rough idea of how much you’re willing to spend will help prevent overspending.
Want more budgeting tips? Visit the Angel Advance Blog for free resources on managing finances and making smarter money choices.
2. Shop Smart: Look for Sales & Discounts
Back-to-school sales are everywhere, from supermarkets to big-box retailers. Plan your shopping to take advantage of sales, especially on items like notebooks, pens, and even uniforms. Check for discounts and promotions in August and September, as many stores slash prices on back-to-school items.
- Tip: Buy in bulk for items you know will be used frequently, such as pens, paper, and folders. These often last for the whole school year.
For more budget-friendly shopping advice, read our guide on saving during peak seasons.
3. Recycle Last Year’s Supplies
Before you start buying new supplies, take a moment to recycle items from last year. You might have a backpack, lunchbox, or pencil case in good condition that just needs a little cleaning. Also, check if your child has leftover stationery items like pens, pencils, and highlighters that can be reused.
Not sure how to handle back-to-school finances? We can help! Check out our Debt Solutions page for advice on managing financial burdens.
4. Shop for Affordable School Uniforms
School uniforms can be one of the priciest items on the back-to-school shopping list, but there are ways to make this cost more manageable. Look for second-hand uniforms at local charity shops or online marketplaces, where you can find high-quality items for a fraction of the cost. Many school uniform suppliers offer discounts for bulk-buying or special deals during the back-to-school period. You can also check if your child’s school has any uniform exchange programs.
If buying new, check out high-street stores or supermarkets, which often provide affordable options that meet uniform guidelines. Also, keep an eye out for local government grants or charitable programs that offer assistance with the cost of school uniforms, especially for families who are struggling financially.
For additional support with school-related costs, you can explore our Debt Solutions to help manage your finances during the back-to-school season.
5. Check for Second-Hand Items
Many parents overlook the option of buying second-hand items for school. Check local charity shops, online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace or Vinted, or community groups. You can often find gently used backpacks, sports uniforms, and even textbooks for a fraction of the price.
- Pro Tip: Textbooks can be expensive, but many are available second-hand. You can also look for online resources or apps that offer free or discounted versions of textbooks.
6. Buy Generic or Store Brands
When shopping for school supplies like notebooks, pens, and folders, store brands usually offer the same quality as name-brand products, but at a much lower price. Don’t be afraid to go generic when you can; those savings can add up over the course of the back-to-school shopping spree.
7. Save on Extracurricular Activities
Extracurricular activities can add up quickly, but there are ways to keep costs down while still supporting your child’s interests. Look for community programs or school-run clubs, which are often cheaper than private lessons or activities. You can also look for group discounts or explore free online classes that your child can join to develop new skills.
- Pro Tip: If your child is interested in multiple activities, see if there are any discounts for signing up for multiple classes or payment plans that can make the cost more manageable.
8. Free School Meals: Are You Eligible?
Did you know that free school meals can be a major saving for families on a budget? If your income is below a certain threshold, your child may be eligible for free school meals. This not only saves money but also ensures your child is receiving a balanced, nutritious meal each day at school.
To apply, visit your local council’s website or contact your child’s school to find out if you qualify and what documents are required. Even if you don’t think you qualify, it’s worth checking, as eligibility criteria can change. Be sure to submit the application well before the start of the term to avoid any delays.
Check out our budgeting page if you need more guidance for your child’s school expenses.
9. Get Your Kids Involved
Involving your kids in the shopping process can be a fun way to make the experience more engaging. Let them help you choose items that fit your budget, and teach them the importance of being smart with money. They’ll feel empowered knowing they helped make the choices, and it will set them up for better financial habits in the future.
10. Use Our Tools to Track Expenses
Managing your back-to-school budget doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At Angel Advance, we offer a wide range of tools to help you stay on top of your finances. Our free budgeting resources can help you organise your spending, set financial goals, and monitor your progress.
By using our budgeting tools, you can make smarter choices and avoid any surprises as you prepare for the school year. Whether you’re tracking school supplies, lunch costs, or extracurricular expenses, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Go Back-to-School with Confidence
Heading back to school doesn’t have to mean overspending. With these practical tips, you can keep your budget in check while ensuring your child has everything they need for a successful year ahead. By planning ahead, shopping smart, and making the most of sales, second-hand items, school uniform deals, and support with free school meals, you can send your child back to school with confidence – and without the financial strain.
Stay organised, prioritise what’s necessary, and remember that being savvy with your back-to-school shopping will set you up for a stress-free and financially sound school year.
