Back to school tips

The dreaded back to school season is back ... soon the kids will be heading off back to school, much to the disappointment of every dad's wallet. New uniform, stationary, books and sports equipment can be enough to put your bank account seriously in the red, especially if you have more than one child to buy for. So we've put together a few hints and tips on how to lower the costs (and the stresses) of buying back-to-school stuff for your kids.

1) Get Organised
If you find a good deal on some items, or come across them in a sale later on in the year then buy them in a bigger size for the start of next years term. In between the start of the new school term and Christmas there will be sales on uniform because retailers will be left with stock that they will want to get rid of before the Christmas rush.

2) Trade with Other Parents
If your child wears uniform, it may be worth arranging a meeting with the other parents and seeing if there are any items that you can swap. At the rate kids grow, there are bound to be some items you have at home that are in good condition but are of no use to you anymore. This is particularly helpful if you meet with families that have more than one child of school age as there will be plenty of sizes available to swap.

3) Shop from Home
One of the most stressful aspects of doing the uniform shop is actually heading out to the high street, as near enough all parents will be doing the same and clogging up the shops. Avoid the crowds and shop at home - most retailers will have an online store which will deliver straight to your door. Many companies have special 'free delivery' promotions, so you could potentially bag your uniform and stationary from home for no extra cost. Most companies will do a free returns service too, meaning that if the product isn't suitable you can send it back at no extra cost.

4) Vouchers
Before you buy anything, make sure that you check whether there are any vouchers or discount codes for that retailer or specific item online. You may find that you can save a percentage off your order or get a buy one get one free deal. If you're shopping from home you could get free delivery with voucher codes from moneysupermarket.com.

5) Buy Stationary in Bulk
Anyone who owns a business will know that buying in bulk is cheaper - and the same applies to buying stationary for the kids. Pens and pencils seem to disappear around the house or school table and pencil cases will probably need replenishing once a month. Buy a box of pens, pencils and rulers from a wholesaler to last for the whole year.

By Rachael Miller
moneysupermarket.com