8 Ways to Spend Less on Back To School Essentials

According to a study conducted by Nationwide Building Society, the average parent will have to spend £190 per child for new school items each year. While this may not seem like a lot to some, if you are a single parent or on a low income, finding the extra cash can prove difficult.

To save you having to spend a fortune this time round, we’ve put together a list of 8 ways to spend less on back to school essentials. 

1. Go e-shopping

Prices are generally lower on the internet as companies have lower overheads which can be passed onto their customers. Sites like EBay are a great place to find deals on stationery, school bags and even uniforms bits and pieces at much cheaper prices.

2. Finding the funds

If you are short on cash, you might want to think about taking out a short-term loan. You can pay back in instalments without having to find it all in one lump sum. Before you commit to any loan, make sure they are FDA approved and check you are getting the best interest rates possible.

3. Start shopping early

By working through your back-to-school list earlier than January or August, you can avoid the rush and pick up bargains out of season. Outside of those peak periods you’ll find cheaper uniform items available so you can stock up without having to break the bank.

4. Check around the house

Kids will lose their stationery. It’s just a fact of life. However, before rushing out to buy a replacement, check to see what you have at home first. You’ll probably find plenty of pens, pencils and even note books that can be put to use instead of collecting dust on top of the fridge.

5. Check out the pound shop

Pound shops offer fantastic value for money when it comes to find back to school essentials. Rather than pay a fortune at expensive retailers you may be able to find BIC pens, pencils, rulers and more at half the price without having to compromise on quality.

6. Make the PE kit last

Your child’s PE kit will probably be one of the least worn items throughout any school year. If possible, try to make them last for a couple of years. Buying slightly bigger shorts is fine due to the elasticated waist band, and an oversized t-shirt will also give them room to grow into it.

7. Buying plenty of matching socks

Socks get worn out or lost by kids, which can mean having buy replacements far too often. However, if you buy plenty of the same type, when some are lost, you’ll be able to match the remaining socks together and it will also save you a lot of time and energy from having to repair them.

8. Invest in good school shoes

School shoes are one of the most expensive items to pay for, but paying for good quality will mean they will last longer. Understandably, it may seem better to go for a lower cost option, but you will probably end up spending more over time as you need to replace them each year.