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Expensive back to school: how parents can save

Shopping for the start of school.

(Bild: Kzenon)

(Bild: AK Burgenland)

School bags, exercise books, pens and laptops - many of these things have to be bought now because the start of school is approaching. A few tips can help to reduce costs.

School starts again in Burgenland in just over two weeks. This is usually an expensive time for parents, as many new items have to be purchased: According to a study by the Chamber of Labor from 2022, the costs in the first few months of school starting are around 4000 euros.

Enormous price differences
"This means a huge financial burden for families," explains Claudia Kreiner-Ebinger, education expert at the Burgenland Chamber of Labor. It is worth taking a close look when shopping. This is because there are enormous price differences in school supplies.

It definitely pays to compare prices.

(Bild: Evelyn Hronek)

Because there are not only big differences between the brands, but also between wholesalers and specialist paper stores. The Chamber of Labor uncovered enormous price differences for the same school supplies, e.g. Pelikan ink cartridges can be up to 149 percent more expensive. However, parents can save money with a few tips.

• Shop sustainably:
  Take a look at the quality of the products. More sustainable items save money. Cheaper felt-tip pens, for example, can dry out more quickly.
• Environmentally friendly shopping:
  Choose environmentally friendly products, such as refillable felt-tip pens.
• Try out fountain pens:
  With fountain pens, the quality of the nib and the design of the barrel are very important! So try out how the nib feels in your hand every time you buy one.
• Specialist retailers with service:
  Specialist retailers score points with service and advice. Sometimes shopping lists can be handed in at the store and the products are put together ready for use.

The imminent start of school means a major financial burden for families. Due to rising prices, money is often tight for many families. It is therefore worth taking a close look when shopping.

AK-Bildungsexpertin Claudia Kreiner-Ebinger

Take advantage of support
For low-income families, there are subsidies available, such as the teaching and school grant from the AK or the school start grant from the state. Information at www.familienland-bgld.at