Planning for back-to-school expenses
As the school year approaches, many households review upcoming education-related costs. Expenses such as uniforms, supplies, and technology can add up, particularly for families with more than one child.
Planning ahead and understanding what costs to expect can help you prepare for the school year in a way that suits your budget and priorities.
Jingle tip
Starting early and setting aside small amounts over time can help spread costs across the year. Even modest, regular savings may reduce the impact of larger expenses when they arise.
Common back-to-school expenses to consider
When planning for the school year, costs can extend beyond basic supplies. Common expenses include:
- Uniforms and footwear – Including sports uniforms and school-specific shoes
- Stationery and supplies – Such as notebooks, folders, calculators, and art materials
- Textbooks and reading materials – Particularly for senior or elective subjects
- Excursions and camps – Often scheduled during the school term
- Extra-curricular activities – Including sport, music, tutoring, or creative programs
Listing expected expenses in advance can help you prioritise essential items and plan for others later in the term.
Creating a back-to-school budget
A simple budget can help you organise expected costs. Some people group expenses into categories such as:
- Uniforms
- Supplies
- Technology
- Activities
- Ongoing or one-off extras (for example, camps or sports fees)
Reviewing these categories may help you decide which expenses need to be covered early and which can be spread out over time.
Planning for higher-cost technology items
Devices such as laptops, tablets, or calculators can be among the larger school-related purchases. Planning ahead for these items may help manage the overall cost.
Saving gradually
Some households choose to set aside small amounts regularly toward higher-cost purchases. The amount and timeframe will vary depending on individual circumstances.
Timing purchases
Sales events throughout the year — such as back-to-school promotions or end-of-financial-year sales — may offer opportunities to compare prices and purchase items when suitable.
Strategies to manage back-to-school costs
There are a range of approaches people use to manage school expenses, including:
- Buying second-hand items where available, such as uniforms or textbooks
- Checking community or online marketplaces for pre-owned items in good condition
- Shopping during sales periods to spread costs over time
Planning ahead can also help account for expenses that arise during the school year, such as excursions or updated materials.
Considering your options
If managing upfront school costs is challenging, some people review a range of options depending on their circumstances. This may include adjusting budgets, using savings, or exploring financial products.
Jingle offers personal loans that may be used for a range of purposes, including education-related expenses. All applications are subject to eligibility criteria and a responsible lending assessment. Reviewing loan terms carefully can help you decide whether this option is appropriate for you.
Preparing for the school year ahead
Back-to-school planning looks different for every household. Taking time to understand upcoming costs, plan ahead, and review available options can help you approach the school year in a way that aligns with your financial situation.
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Disclaimer: This article is for general information only. It does not take into account your individual circumstances and is not financial advice. Consider seeking independent advice before making financial decisions.
