For school-going children, the holidays just started, but ask any parent with a school-going child and they will tell you in a heartbeat that schools will be opened in a few weeks. Back to school is both exciting and stressful for parents, who are often faced with the daunting task of managing rising back-to-school expenses. 

With a little planning, budgeting, and the right financial tools, you can ease the burden and start the school term without the stress. Here’s your ultimate guide for back-to-school shopping and ABC Bank products that will make the process smoother, as noted by Yvonne Waweru, Customer Service Officer, ABC Bank- Westlands Branch.

1. Start Now: It’s never too early to start saving for back-to-school expenses. While it’s great to plan months in advance, even a few weeks of saving can make a big difference. The trick while saving is to try and set aside funds to cover immediate expenses like uniforms, school fees, and books.

When saving, our ABC Bank’s Youngstar Account is perfect for these expenses, where you can set a savings goal for school-related expenses.

2. Budget: List out all the necessary expenses, such as school fees, uniforms, books, stationery, and any additional activities like sports or field trips that will be needed in the new term, while prioritizing the essentials and seeing where you can cut back if the expenses are above budget.

3. Take advantage of back-to-school discounts and Special Offers: Back-to-school sales are a common occurrence, and it’s worth keeping an eye on these promotions. When planning, stock up on non-perishable items like notebooks, pens, and calculators when they’re on sale to save you a coin that can be used to cater for other expenses. 

4. Track your spending: With a budget in place, track your finances easily using your ABC Bank ABConnect mobile banking app, ensuring your stay within budget. In addition, manage your child’s school fee payments conveniently, wherever you are.

While back-to-school can be overwhelming, it doesn’t have to be financially stressful. By planning and sticking to a budget, you can ensure your child has everything they need for a successful new school term. So, take a deep breath and set your financial plan in motion. Your family’s financial peace of mind is only a few smart steps away!