How Consumers can cope with Back To School Blues!

Teri Ann Renee Paisley, Gleaner Online Writer

Although technically there are a few more weeks until school resumes, you can always tell when its getting closer. There is the tell tale frustrated gleam in the eye of the consumer as he frantically rushes from store to store trying to buy school supplies.

There are also gigantic displays advertising back to school savings in stores as retailers seek to capitalize on the shopping rush. A wide array of back to school loans have also been advertised as creditors are eager to convince you that taking a loan will solve your back to school dilemma.

The worst part of preparing for back to school this year is that along with school fees, supplies, textbooks and uniforms, there is the additional concern of the increase of bus fare on the J.U.T.C. buses.

How to cope with increased costs
Don’t give up in frustration, consumers can survive back to school expenses despite these tough financial times. The best thing is to start early. Don’t wait until the weekend before school starts to begin your preparations.

If your school fee seems staggering, work out a payment plan with the school, before classes begin or check out your options with the advertised back to school loans.

I have already written about not buying textbooks before consulting with the teacher but what about notebooks?

A number of back to school promotions are being advertised that help consumers with purchasing their school supplies such as exercise books while they buy groceries.

In one such promotion, consumers get a free exercise book and a pack of crayons when they buy two packs of Milo at the HiLo supermarket.
Other wholesalers are offering packages where you buy ten notebooks and you will get one free.

Other items such as backpacks are in heavy demand. However, it is not necessary to buy expensive brand name bags which sometimes make the children targets for thieves. It is a better idea to purchase backpacks that are sturdy and long lasting. It is also a good idea to check the quality of the stitching on the bags and lunch kits.

The bus fare increase might be challenging but why not think about sending less money for snacks and using that to supplement the fare?

Those parents who qualify can enquire at the school about enrolling their child in a student feeding programme sponsored by the government.

Lunch kits are traditionally for younger children but with the ever increasing cost of purchasing food it might be a good idea to rethink packed lunches for everyone.
Many children spend their money at school buying sugary snacks so why not send a sandwich and some fruit instead?

Granted not everyone has the time to prepare packed lunch but older kids can be allowed to plan their own lunch. Some students also have access to a microwave and fridge at their school where they can store their lunch and have it warmed.

So how are you going to cope with back to school expenses?
Let me hear from you!

Tags: consumers, savings