Back-to-school shopping could cost families up to $750 per child this year. Here's how to keep costs down

The findings suggest many families are responding by planning ahead, comparing prices and staying flexible on brands as they look for ways to stretch their budgets without sacrificing the essentials.

Price is driving shopping decisions

According to the survey, 85% of Canadian parents say price is the biggest factor when deciding where to make their first back-to-school purchase.

Rather than trying to buy everything in one outing, most expect to spread their shopping across two or three trips. Only 19% think they’ll complete all of their shopping in a single visit, with many citing changing school supply lists, product availability and the opportunity to compare prices at multiple retailers.

The findings reflect the continued pressure many families feel as they prepare for one of the biggest annual household expenses. While inflation has cooled from recent highs, prices for many everyday items remain above pre-pandemic levels, meaning parents are still looking for ways to stretch their budgets as the school year approaches.

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5 ways to keep back-to-school costs under control

With spending potentially reaching hundreds of dollars per child, a little planning can make a meaningful difference. Here are a few ways parents can help keep costs in check:

• Take stock before you shop. Check what’s left over from last year before buying new stationary. Reusing supplies can help reduce your overall spending.
• Compare prices before heading to the store. Since many parents already expect to visit more than one retailer, checking flyers and online prices in advance can help you decide where to find the best deals.
• Buy the essentials first. Focus on required school supplies before purchasing clothing, electronics or other discretionary items that may go on sale later in the season.
• Be open to other brands. The survey found many parents are willing to switch between private-label and national brands when price and quality are comparable. That’s particularly true for families with younger children.
• Set a budget before you start. Deciding how much you’re prepared to spend on each child can help prevent impulse purchases and make it easier to stay on track.

Parents are planning earlier

The survey also found 61% of parents have already started planning for back-to-school shopping or expect to begin soon. Parents of younger children tend to start earlier, while those with teenagers are more likely to wait until closer to the first day of school.