Back to school can be a stressful and financially challenging time for many families. Buying textbooks, school supplies, uniforms, clothing, extracurricular activities and other accessories can significantly increase expenses. However, with proper planning and organisation, it is possible to reduce these costs without compromising the quality of the products or the children's learning.
This year back to school It will be more expensive than the previous one, so we wanted to gather some tips to avoid overspending during this period. From reviewing the above materials to taking advantage of government aid and collaborative consumption, here we offer everything you need to know to successfully face this challenge.
Check materials and clothing from the previous course
Before you start shopping, it's essential to take inventory of what you already have at home. Going through your backpack, pencil case, books, and supplies from the previous school year can help you determine what's in good condition and can be reused for the new school year. partially used notebooks, pens and pencils that still work do not need to be replaced if they perform their function well.
Also, check your children's clothes and shoes. Many items of clothing and shoes that are in good condition will often be useful for a while longer. This includes uniforms, jackets, T-shirts and trainers. At the start of the new school year, there is no need to buy coats that will not be used immediately, as the temperatures are still pleasant.
Plan and create a family budget
One of the keys to controlling spending during the return to school is to establish a clear and detailed budget. To do this, divide expenses into different categories, such as: clothes, books, school supplies and extracurricular activities. Remember to include these expenses in your overall budget to avoid financial imbalances.
The ideal would be Prepare this budget as a family, encouraging children's participation. This will help them understand the value of money and take care of the materials and products they buy, creating a connection between their desires and economic reality.
Avoid impulse buying and analyze the offers
Deals and promotions can be tempting, but they don't always represent real savings. Before making any purchase, make sure you know what you're looking for. compare prices in different physical and online stores. Ask yourself if you really need that product. Buying things that are not essential or redundant can unbalance your budget and generate ant expenses.
If you find a deal that seems attractive, make sure it really will save you money by comparing prices at other stores. Remember that if you buy things on sale that you don't need, you'll be spending more and not saving.
Buy in stages and prioritize the essentials
It's important to remember that you don't need to buy everything at once. Most children won't need all their school supplies or new clothes in the first month of school. Buy the most urgent thing at the beginning and leave the rest for later. Not only will this help spread out the costs, but it will also allow you to take advantage of price drops later on.
Collaborative consumption: exchanges and second hand
Collaborative consumption is an excellent option for saveLook for book or school supplies exchange programs in your community or at your child's school's parent association (AMPA). Many families offer second-hand clothing, uniforms, backpacks, or even technological devices in excellent condition at affordable prices.
Second-hand shops, online marketplaces and platforms specialising in the sale of second-hand goods are also invaluable sources for finding what you need at significantly lower prices. This practice not only helps to save on your wallet, but also promotes sustainability.
Find out about available grants and scholarships
In many autonomous communities there are aid programs for the purchase of textbooks or school supplies. Check the official portals of your community, as well as the Ministry of Education website, for available scholarships and grants. These programs are usually designed for families with limited incomes, but can offer considerable benefits to reduce school costs.
Take advantage of free resources and digital options
Public libraries and some educational portals offer free or low-cost books and school resources. You can also consider using refurbished digital devices to read e-books, which can be a cheaper and more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional textbooks.
By implementing these tips and taking an organized approach, going back to school can be much more manageable financially. Planning ahead, prioritizing the essentials, and taking advantage of grants and collaborative options are key strategies to transform this challenge into a savings opportunity.