Going back-to-school doesn’t have to break the bank. We’ve got a few tips on how to shop and save.
It’s almost time to get your kids back to school and, with the cost of living rising in South Africa, most parents will be wanting to make their budget stretch as much as possible. If you’re one of them, you’ll be glad to know we have a few savvy tips on how to get what you need and save. Ready to get an A+ for shopping smart?
Don’t buy what you don’t need
Before you swipe that card, take a good look at what’s required for the school year – most schools will provide you with a list – and check it against what you already have. If you realise there’s nothing wrong with your child’s current backpack, they happen to have a huge stash of socks and you know you there are two pairs of scissors in the house, you won’t end up buying things unnecessarily.
Keep an eye out for sales
Just about every retailer will be having a big back-to-school promotion. Subscribe to the newsletters of the places you already shop to be kept in the loop about any specials and take advantage of them but also be sure to shop around. An item that’s 50% off at one store might cost even less even when it’s full price at another. A quick Google of whatever’s on your shopping list will reveal who’s got what at the lowest price.
Spring for quality where it matters
Yes, certain brands are known for their quality but if your child is only going to use their sports bag once a week it doesn’t have to be a top of the line or sportswear branded item. Rather spend more on something they’ll wear or use every day, like a good quality pair of school shoes with a fortified sole that won’t wear through before the year is out.
Don’t forget about buying second hand
Online market places are a great way to find other parents selling gently used school items, from scientific calculators and Oxford dictionaries to cricket bats for a fraction of what they’d cost if you had to buy them brand new. You can also find out if your school has its own second hand shop or an online community to source school-specific items like blazers that have been outgrown.
Think ahead and save big
Chances are your child is going to need multiple flip files and pens in their school career, not just five. If possible, anticipate your future needs and buy in bulk to save money in the long term. You can apply the same tactic to lunch box items that will keep for several months, things like long-life juice boxes and cereal bars.
Think even further ahead and enjoy peace of mind
Something else you might want to put on your back-to-school shopping list is life insurance. For the cost of a low monthly premium, you can then rest assured that, in the event of your passing, your chosen beneficiary will receive a lump sum payout that can be used to pay school fees, books, stationery and more. This way, regardless of what the future holds, your children will receive the education that can ensure a brighter one.
You can now take out life cover with us online in a few simple steps. No calls and no agents! Make sure to take care of those you love today by buying MiWayLife cover online.
