The new school year is approaching, bringing with it numerous expenses for textbooks and educational materials.
This year, as always, school-related costs for families are expected to be high, but in many cases, strategies for saving money can be implemented.
Here are some tips.
Buying textbooks? Secondhand or… at the supermarket!
First, consider the option of purchasing used books: textbooks in good condition are an economical and sustainable solution, especially for high school students, whose families typically face the highest expenses.
Buying textbooks from other students, at market stalls, or in specialized bookstores ensures significant savings.
Supermarkets and hypermarkets offer school supplies at lower prices than bookstores.
For notebooks, pencil cases, and pens, you can focus on so-called “loss-leader products,” which are items sold at very low prices in large retail chains. This marketing strategy involves selling certain products below cost to attract customers and encourage additional purchases.
The advice is to take advantage of these “loss-leader products” without being tempted by unnecessary additional purchases.
Is buying online worth it?
Another way to save on school supplies is to explore online purchasing options.
Compared to traditional stores, substantial discounts can often be found.
Additionally, browsing social media and websites frequented by students can uncover both great deals and opportunities for exchanging school materials.
Avoid trends and influencer-driven fads
It often happens that children and teens are influenced in their preferences by current trends, peer behavior, and, of course, what influencers promote.
It’s the responsibility of parents to carefully evaluate expenses and decide which are reasonable and which are not, based on the family budget.
This can also be an opportunity to teach young people a few lessons in financial literacy, helping them understand the value of money and the importance of saving.
An extra tip: to avoid purchasing unnecessary or incomplete materials, don’t let yourself be rushed or stressed!
For dictionaries and technical tools, it’s usually best to wait for the teachers’ recommendations.
September is known to be a challenging month for the entire family, both organizationally and financially. However, good financial planning can help manage expenses and activities effectively and wisely, reducing stress as everyone returns from vacation!
If you’re interested in more financial education and savings tips, visit our website and stay informed through our blog.