Back to School Costs: Start Smart & Stay on Track

Make back to school a breeze, not a burden

The holidays are winding down, and for many families, the reality of back-to-school expenses is kicking in. From uniforms and stationery to school fees and extracurricular activities, the costs can add up fast. But before you reach for your credit card or take on extra debt, take a moment to plan ahead and set yourself up for success.

Stay on Track & Minimise Debt

It’s easy to feel pressure to spend big at the start of the school year, but small changes can make a big difference. Here are a few ways to ease the financial load:

• ‍Check what you already have - Before buying new supplies, see what’s left over from last year. Reusing lunchboxes, bags, and stationery can save heaps.
• ‍Spread the cost – Prioritise the must-haves and stagger purchases over a few weeks instead of buying everything at once.
• ‍Shop second-hand – Many schools and online marketplaces have great deals on pre-loved uniforms and supplies. ‍
• Avoid Buy Now, Pay Later traps – While BNPL services seem helpful, they can lead to a cycle of never-ending payments. If you use them, have a plan to pay them off quickly

Looking Ahead to Next Year

Now’s also a great time to plan for next year’s school costs. Consider setting up a small savings fund for future expenses—putting aside even $5–$10 a week can make a big difference when January rolls around again.

The start of the school year is a fresh start for the whole whānau. Stay the course, keep working towards your financial reset, and remember—every smart choice today helps set up a stress-free future.

If you have taken on debt to cover festive season spending or back to school costs, a Financial Reset can help you get back on track. Talk to our friendly team about how about how we can help you with a debt detox.