10 ways to keep back-to-school costs under control

The summer holidays aren’t exactly a relaxing time for many parents. As well as organising childcare and keeping the kids entertained, you’ve got to get them ready for the new school year, forking out for everything from uniform items to stationery and textbooks.

So it’s no surprise that the strain of juggling these pressures is taking its toll.

According to research by Deichmann, one in three parents (33%) have lost sleep from worrying about getting everything ready in time.

More than half (52%) say shopping for school uniform and shoes is a particularly big pressure, while almost two-thirds (61%) are worried about making sure their child has everything they need.

Thankfully, there are a few ways you can make everything feel a bit more manageable.

1. Write a list

Before you start shopping, write a list of everything you need to buy.

Just having it down on paper and seeing it one place can make the task feel much less overwhelming.

If you tick it off as you go, there’s less chance that you might forget something important.

And if you have a partner, family member or someone else who can help, having a list means you can delegate some purchases and share the load.

2. Budget for back-to-school costs

Once you’ve written your list, work out how much you can afford to spend.

And make sure you factor this into your wider household budget, so you can buy everything you need without losing sight of other financial priorities, like paying your rent or mortgage.

Check our guide on how to create a budget to get started.

3. Be open about money

If your child is making excessive (and expensive) demands, such as asking for a new laptop, then be honest with them about what you can and can’t afford. 

Children often don’t realise the financial pressures that parents face each day, but a calm conversation can help set realistic expectations.

4. Find out what benefits you can claim

If you’re struggling to cover back-to-school expenses, there’s a good chance that other day-to-day costs are putting you under pressure as well.

So it’s worth finding out what state benefits you might be entitled that could make things a bit easier.

Get in touch or try our benefits calculator to see what support you could be eligible for.

It might be more than you realise.

5. Find out if your council can help you with uniform costs

Some local councils offer up to £200 as a non-repayable grant to help with the cost. 

You can usually get help if your child qualifies for free school meals, and if you’re claiming at least one of the following benefits:  

• child tax credit
• income support
• income-based job seekers allowance
• income-related employment and support allowance
• support under part VI of the immigration and asylum act 1999
• the guaranteed element of pension credit
• universal credit
• working tax credit 

To find out if you're eligible or apply for help, contact your local council.

6. Check local uniform exchanges 

Many schools and community groups offer free or low-cost second-hand uniforms. 

Check your school’s website or ask your PTA. 

Local Facebook groups can also be a good resource. 

7. Look online for second-hand uniforms

Platforms like Vinted, eBay, and Facebook Marketplace will have almost new or even brand new uniforms at a fraction of the regular retail price.  

8. Speak to friends or family with older kids

Check in with friends or relatives who have older children at the same school.

They might have some items of clothing they don’t need any more that are still as good as new - and they’ll probably be happy to give them to you for nothing.

9. Size up where you can

Sizing up means your child has room to grow into their clothes.

That can help uniforms last a bit longer and stop you having to buy more uniform items later in the term.

10. Look for deals

Sign up for retailer newsletters, loyalty schemes, discount platforms and cashback sites, so you’re first in line for special deals and promo codes.

It’s also worth checking our Money Saver pages, as we regularly share details of some of the great deals that are out there.