Before we know it Back To School, and work, is upon us, and it could either catch us by surprise, or we could plan ahead, and budget accordingly and the stationery shopping could be smooth sailing. Usually, we’re not set to think about it this time of the year, but rather worry about it in January, which is too late because admit it we’re just human and we tend to get extravagant during the festive season.

Back to school can cost a fortune if you don’t have a game plan and then January will definitely turn into ‘Januworry’ for you.  We’ll share some tips and tricks on how to budget for back to school, but it’s best to start with considering what your child’s needs are and the classroom requirements for the year. Usually, a list of supplies are provided, and this is essential, especially for comparing prices.

This time of the year, various retailers such as Spar Supermarket at Athol Square, CNA and Exclusive Books in Benmore Centre, CNA and Exclusive Books in Sandton City, offer terrific deals to help you save. So, now is the best time to follow the following guidelines.

1. Items Available

First look at the items you have on-hand already. This will save you lots of money if you have pens, pencils and crayons in decent shape that can be used. Compare the supplies list versus what you have already before going out and go crazy buying, Reuse and repurpose is better than being broke anyways.

2. Set a Budget

Be realistic on how much you can afford this month. Hopefully, you’ve saved some money for a few months, but if you haven’t see what items you can purchase now, and what items can be bought at a later stage. For example, if three boxes of tissues are required, buy just one for now and the rest later.

3. Bulk Buys

Buying in bulk can help save on certain items like bulk packages of snacks, energy bars, and other non-perishable items your children take for lunch – chips, cookies and juices. Another item could be lunch bags like Ziplock bags.

4. Pack Lunches

Invest some time in the new year to pack lunch instead of buying lunch that can sometimes turn out too expensive. Think about affordable lunches such as peanut butter and jam sandwiches or toasted cheese with fresh fruit. Did you know you can freeze peanut butter and jam sandwiches for up to a month?

5. School Uniforms

Instead of buying new school uniforms, think about swopping out or buy from the school’s inventory, if possible. The materials are made to last, and the uniforms sometimes seem brand new. Search for Facebook groups where moms exchange or sell uniforms, and you might get lucky with a few other items such as backpacks.

6. Get Creative

Extend the life of existing binders, backpacks, lunchboxes or pencil cases with pretty paper, fabric paint, washi tape, stickers, or Mod Podge. It’s a cheap facelift and kids will enjoy adding their own personality to their belongings, making it easier to identify. You could do the same with pens, pencils, notebooks and folders.

We hope that this helps you, moms and dads. Start now and be prepared – school season is around the corner. Click here to see the 2021 school calendar for South Africa.