Parents face a £44 ‘snack attack’ during school holidays

School holidays can be expensive. And it’s not just days out and childcare putting pressure on family budgets.

New research by the supermarket Aldi shows that families are spending an extra £44 on snacks over the Easter break alone. With food prices still high, those extra trips to the kitchen can quickly push already stretched budgets even further.

Nearly half of children snack three or more times a day during the holidays, while 68% of parents say they buy more snacks than in term time. It’s what many are calling the “snack trap” - a constant stream of requests for crisps, fruit, yoghurts and treats that quietly add up over the course of the holiday.

So if your food shop feels higher than usual while the kids are off school, you’re not imagining it.

Why food costs rise during school holidays

When children are at school, meals and snacks tend to follow a routine. Packed lunches, set break times and after-school dinners help keep things predictable.

During the holidays, that structure disappears. Children are at home for longer, routines change, and boredom can lead to more frequent snacking. Days out also play a part, with more food bought on the go, often at a higher cost.

All of this makes it easy for spending to creep up without you noticing at first. But over a couple of weeks, those extra snacks can add a noticeable amount to your overall food bill.

What help is available if you’re struggling

If the school holidays are putting pressure on your budget, there are a few places you can turn to for extra help.

Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme

The Holiday Activities and Food programme offers free holiday clubs for children aged between four and 16 who receive benefits-related free school meals. These clubs provide children with somewhere safe and social to go during the day, while also including free meals, which can take some of the pressure off at home. Many programmes also include activities to keep children occupied, which can reduce the likelihood of constant snacking out of boredom.

Find out more about the HAF programme here and see if you qualify for support: Holiday activities and food programme 2025 to 2026 financial year - GOV.UK

Crisis and Resilience Fund - replacing the Household Support Fund

The Household Support Fund, which helped families cover essentials like food, energy and water bills, officially ended at the end of March 2026. For families used to relying on this support, the good news is that it hasn’t disappeared entirely.

It has now been replaced by the Crisis and Resilience Fund, a new scheme delivered through local councils. This fund is designed to offer flexible support to people facing sudden financial pressures or living on a low income. Depending on your local council, this could include cash payments, supermarket vouchers, or help with essential bills. Check with your local authority to see what support is available in your area under the new fund.

Find more information on the Crisis Resilience Fund and how it can help you in our blog here: What is the Crisis and Resilience Fund

Kids eat free (or for £1) offers

During the school holidays, many restaurants and supermarkets run deals where children can eat for free or for as little as £1 when an adult meal is purchased. These offers provide a practical way to reduce food costs, particularly on days out, while also giving parents a break from cooking. With offers changing regularly, it’s worth checking what’s available locally before making plans.

We’ve pulled together a list of all the kids eat free offers for you here: Where kids can eat free - or nearly free - these Easter holidays

Charities and food banks

If money’s tight, charities and food banks can help keep food on the table. The Trussell Trust can show you the nearest food bank or local charity offering emergency support.

Most food banks require a referral before you can get a parcel. You can usually get one from your local council, school, or your GP. Once you have it, the food bank will give you a parcel with essentials like tinned and fresh food, bread, milk, and sometimes toiletries.

Save money with food waste apps

Food waste apps are another clever way to cut costs while the kids are off school. Olio connects you with neighbours and local shops giving away or selling surplus food for free or cheap, from bread and fruit to ready meals.

Another popular option is Too Good To Go, which lets you grab “magic bags” of unsold food from cafés, restaurants and supermarkets at a fraction of the price. You pay a small fee, collect the food, and save money while stopping good food going to waste.

These apps are easy to use and can take some of the pressure off your weekly shop, especially when snack requests feel endless.

Small changes that can help stretch your food budget

Alongside accessing support, small changes at home can also make a difference. Setting regular snack times can help reduce constant grazing throughout the day, while preparing snacks in advance, such as chopped fruit or simple sandwiches, can make it easier to manage portions. Buying in larger quantities where possible and balancing treats with more filling options can also help keep children satisfied for longer, which could reduce how often they ask for more food.