Dec 31 2025

Back-to-school pro tips: How to save on school essentials

by Haziq

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Back–to–school season is an exciting time for children, but for parents —especially those with multiple kids—, expenses can quickly add up. it often comes with rising costs. From uniforms and shoes to stationery and school bags, the costs can be overwhelming.

With early planning, smart preparation and a little strategy such as budgeting, keeping an eye out for sales, and making the most of available government aid, you can manage back-to-school expenses without compromising on quality. The tips below will help families stay organised, stretch their ringgit and start the new school year on the right foot.

1. Set your budget early

Start with a clear and realistic budget. List everything your child needs, such as uniforms, stationery, bags, shoes, and learning tools. Then assign a spending limit for each category.

A budget helps you prioritise essential, avoid unnecessary purchases and prevent last-minute impulse buying.

2. Look out for deals, promos and government support

Government assistance and store promotions can help lower back-to-school expenses.

For instance, Bantuan Awal Persekolahan (BAP) provides RM150 for each student to help cover basic school necessities such as uniforms, stationery and school bags.Parents can also look out for store promotions and payment-based offers to stretch their ringgit further. For example, paying with TNG eWallet for selected Disiplin school uniforms at participating MYDIN outlets nationwide gives families RM5 off each eligible item, and those savings can add up when buying more than one.

3. Compare prices and quality

Not all school items need to come from premium brands. For stationery such as exercise books, pens, pencils, rulers and erasers, affordable options often offer the same quality.

Compare prices between supermarkets, bookstores and online platforms. Look for bundle deals or value packs, which reduce cost less per item. Durable items may cost slightly more upfront but save money by lasting the entire school year.

If you use online shopping platforms such as Lazada through TNG eWallet, you might be able to get essential school supplies and earn GOrewards points as well.

4. Reuse and repurpose items from previous years

Before shopping, check what you already have. School bags, water bottles, pencil cases and even uniforms may still be usable.

Reusing items reduces spending and teaches children the value of caring for their belongings, while allowing you to focus your budget on essentials that truly need replacing.

5. Shop with a checklist

A detailed checklist keeps shopping focused and organised:

Write down only what your child truly needs

Grouping items into categories such as uniforms, stationery and accessories

Avoid duplicate purchases

A checklist prevents unnecessary spending and saves time while shopping.

6. Use digital payments to stay in control

Using digital payments can make managing back–to–school expenses much easier. Paying with TNG eWallet allows you to track your purchases in one place and monitor spending in real time, helping you see where your money goes and make informed choices for the rest of the month.

7. Buy in bundles or through group purchases

Buying items individually can add up. Look out for bundled stationery sets or value packs, and consider group buys with friends, school communities or social media groups to reduce costs on shared essentials.

Bonus tip: Involve your children

Back-to-school shopping is a chance to teach money lessons.

Explain needs vs. Wants

Compare prices together

Encourage responsible spending

Children who participate in these decisions are more likely to appreciate the value of money and take better care of their school items throughout the year.

Make back–to–school prep easier

With early planning, careful comparison, reusing what you have and using smart tools to manage spending, families can keep expenses under control more effectively.

With these back-to-school tips, parents can focus on what matters most, helping their children start the school year with confidence and peace of mind.