Five tips to prepare for back-to-school costs
4 minute read
Five tips to prepare for back-to-school costs
4 minute read
Children up and down the UK are getting ready to return to school. While you might be excited to get the kids out of the house, you might not be looking forward to the financial pressures that often come with back to school…
From expected costs to last-minute surprises, things can quickly add up. But with a little bit of careful planning, you could make the most of your money.
Here are five practical tips to help manage and prepare for back-to-school expenses.
1. First day back budget
Before you hit the shops, set yourself a realistic budget.
Make a list of everything they need – stationary, uniform, school bags, shoes, tech etc. And find the ‘must have’ items over those that would be ‘nice to have.’ That could help you prioritise spending – along with thinking about how many of each thing you need and how good a quality it needs to be.
You might be surprised by the supplies you already have at home. Check drawers, closets, and last year’s school bags for unused notebooks, pens, and other items. Reusing or repurposing supplies can significantly cut costs.
2. Food for thought
A big cost throughout the school term is lunches and snacks. We all want our children to eat healthy and feel full throughout the day, no easy task for any dietary requirements.
While shopping, think about the variety of food your child needs during a school day. Trying to buy as much as you need could help avoid overspending and food waste. This can also help you keep their lunch varied and ensure a well-balanced diet.
There are lots of options for school prepared lunches and meals depending on the school. Look at the cost and dietary options available and think, could they be an easier and better meal option?
3. Special calendar events
You’ll often find lots of special events peppered through the school year. World Book Day, Children in Need fundraising, sports day…
These often come with a price tag, too! Remember to pop these dates in your calendar with a reminder a few weeks before. This will give you time to avoid last minute purchases. No one wants to overspend on a princess outfit the day before it’s needed… again!
4. Plan for hidden costs
It’s easy to plan for what we know is coming, but it’s often the hidden costs that catch us out school trips, lost jumpers, broken tech, Mrs Taylors broken greenhouse...
It could be a smart idea to build in small buffer in your annual budget for these surprises.
We have a variety of saving accounts that you can add money to throughout the year, or as a lump sum with easy access. This means money can be available when you need it to cover any hidden school costs.
5. Holiday clubs
One of the biggest school expenses can come outside of the school term in the form of holiday clubs. With prices going up and it becoming more difficult to get spaces each year, being prepared can help save you money and stress.
Set reminders and calendar notifications to remind you to get your little ones booked in to their favourite club before the scramble. Some will let you to rebook for next year as this year’s ends – great if your kids are keen to go back!
Being prepared gives you time to look around, find holiday clubs to suit all your needs, their interest and budgets. Don’t be forced to overpay for a club your children hate and doesn’t work for you and your family.
Remember
Back-to-school season doesn’t have to be financially stressful. With a little planning, smart shopping and organisation, it can set you and your children up for a great year ahead.
We have a variety of savings accounts that could be right for you and your savings, however you go about it. Easy access accounts could help you save regularly with access to your money through the school terms. A fixed account may help you put money away you don't need access to now so you can plan longer term.
Published August 2025
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