Back-to-school season is here, bringing new opportunities and routines for students and families alike. However, alongside the excitement for the upcoming academic year, for many families, this time of year often brings a long list of extra expenses. According to Deloitte’s 2026 Back to School Survey, families are spending an average of $557 per student on back-to-school costs alone. Without the proper planning, this time of year can quickly create a financial burden for families between the costs of textbooks, school supplies, clothing, sports fees, and more.

The good news is that there are many ways to prepare for the upcoming school year so that your overall financial goals are not disrupted. Here are five practical ways to manage the back-to-school season, while still providing all that your students need to succeed.

1. Create a thorough school-year budget—not just a shopping list

Many families focus on back-to-school shopping in July and August but overlook the expenses that will arrive throughout the school year. In addition to backpacks and notebooks, consider budgeting for categories such as:

• School lunches,
• Sports and extracurricular fees,
• Field trips,
• School photos and yearbooks,
• Fundraisers,
• Music lessons and instrument rentals, and
• School events and dances.

For families with children in private schools, don't forget to account for tuition payments, uniforms, transportation, and any required technology or activity fees.

Planning for the full academic year, rather than just the back-to-school list, will help prevent surprise expenses from disrupting your monthly budget between now and next summer.

2. Inventory what you already own before you shop

Before heading to the store, take stock of what you already have at home. Unused notebooks, calculators, binders, art supplies, lunch containers, and last year's backpack may still have plenty of life left.

Older students may also be able to reuse laptops, tablets, graphing calculators, or dorm essentials rather than replacing them every year. Buying only what's truly needed can provide significant savings, while cutting down on impulse purchases.

3. Shop smarter by timing your purchases

Not every back-to-school purchase needs to happen before the first day of class. While required supplies should be purchased early, many items—including clothing, shoes, backpacks, and electronics—often go on sale after the initial back-to-school rush or during Labor Day promotions.

Families may benefit from dividing their back-to-school shopping into "must-have now" and "can wait" categories. Purchasing seasonal items over several weeks instead of all at once can help you take advantage of better pricing while avoiding the back-to-school shopping crowds.

4. Offer grandparents a meaningful way to help

Many grandparents enjoy contributing to their grandchildren’s education. If you have grandchildren, you may consider coordinating with your children to identify ways you can help, including:

• Providing extra back-to-school shopping funds so your grandchildren can pick out fun supplies
• Making contributions to their school tuition fund
• Helping your grandchild with their costs associated with required technology or textbooks
• Contributing to room and board or meal plan fees for students in college or boarding schools

Planning your gifts in advance helps avoid duplicate purchases while supporting your student's educational experiences in a meaningful way.

5. Take advantage of 529 Education Savings Plans

Back-to-school season is a great reminder to review your education savings strategy. If you're already contributing to a 529 plan, consider whether your current contribution amount still aligns with your family's goals. Even modest, consistent contributions can make a difference over time thanks to the potential for tax-advantaged growth.

Plus, one of the benefits of a 529 plan is that grandparents, relatives, and even family friends can contribute. The start of a new school year is a great time to contribute to the future of the student in your life. Depending on where you live, contributions may also qualify for state tax benefits. Reviewing your plan annually helps ensure you're making the most of these savings opportunities, while staying on track for future education expenses.

Final thoughts

Planning beyond the first day of school, making thoughtful purchasing decisions, and anticipating expenses throughout the year can help your family stay organized while keeping school spending aligned with your overall financial goals.

Whether you're shopping for your own children or helping prepare your grandchildren for another successful school year, a little planning today can make the months ahead considerably easier. We hope that your students have a wonderful academic year, filled with learning, growth, and new opportunities.